A small tree or shrub, perennial and evergreen, typically reaching up to 7 meters in height. It exhibits a multi-branched growth habit, with a white, fissured bark. The crown is broad, composed of numerous arching green branches. Leaves are succulent, ranging in color from light to dark green, and are ovate to nearly round in shape. The flowers are yellow. The fruit is fleshy and spherical, measuring 5–10 mm in diameter, and varies in color from red to black. Fruits are borne in slender, branched clusters, approximately 10 cm in length.
Scintefic Name
Salvadora Persica L
Family
Salvadoraceae
Native Range
The Arabian Peninsula, South-Central Asia, the Mediterranean Basin, and Africa.
Distribution in Saudi Arabia
Found across the valleys along the Red Sea coast in Makkah Region (including Al-Leith and Al-Qunfudhah), as well as in Jazan and Aseer. It is also prevalent in the mountainous valleys of the southern region.
Importance
An important fodder plant and the natural source of miswak, with noted medicinal uses
Sandy plains, wadis, and coastal alluvial flats
Soil: alkaline, saline, sandy loamy
Climate: full sun exposure
Soil pH: not specified
Elevation range
0–1,800 meters above sea level
Propagation methods
Seeds and Hardwood Cuttings
Planting season
February to March
Irrigation
Moderate requirement
Fertilization
Care
Requires pruning, pest control spraying, and plant support during early growth stages
Toxicity Risks
None reported
Pests and diseases
Leaf worms and some foliar fungal infections
Flowering period
February – March – April
Growth rate
Slow
Drought tolerance
High
Drenching
Salinity tolerance
16,000 to 48,000 ppm (parts per million)
Temperature range
3–47 °C
