Girtanneria spina-christi, Rhamnus divaricata, Rhamnus nabeca, Rhamnus recta, Rhamnus spina-christi, Ziziphus africana, Ziziphus heterogenea, Ziziphus iroensis, Ziziphus napeca, Ziziphus sonorensis, Ziziphus sphaerocarpa, Ziziphus spinosa
Areen, Christ's Thorn Jujube, Sidra tree
Ziziphus spina-christi, the Christ's Thorn Jujube, is an evergreen tree native to northern and tropical Africa and southern and Western Asia. It grows in Israel in valleys up to an elevation of 500m.[+]
Ziziphus spina-christi, also known as Christ's thorn or nabk, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Middle East and Africa. In Qatar, it is commonly found in wadi beds, rocky areas, and desert landscapes. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of Qatar, including the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve and other protected areas. The plant is adapted to the arid environment, with a deep root system allowing it to survive drought conditions. In Qatar, Ziziphus spina-christi has been found to play an important role in stabilizing soil and providing habitat for local wildlife, such as birds and insects. Its fruit is also a food source for many animals, highlighting the plant's ecological significance in the Qatari ecosystem.
Observations of Ziziphus spina-christi in Qatar show that the plant is widely distributed in the country, with sightings in various areas including Doha and south-western Qatar. The tree is found in urban areas, such as Al Doha Al Jadeeda and West Bay, as well as in farms like Irkhaya Farms. The plant produces apple-like fruits, which are often referred to as "Kanar", and flowers that are typically collected in February and April. The trees can grow quite large, with some specimens observed on Al Khattabi Street and near the Central Fish Market. The plant's thorns are also notable, giving it the common name "Christ's Thorn Jujube". Fruits have been observed falling from the tree in March, and new shoots have been seen growing in May.
www.catalogueoflife.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.