Rafha, January 07, 2024, The vast wilderness of the Northern Borders Region, spanning over 127,000 square kilometers, showcases a remarkable geographical diversity characterized by plateaus, valleys, and plains. This region is adorned with aromatic plants, filling the air with their delightful fragrances, and creating a unique and captivating environment.
Abdullah Al-Barrak, an enthusiast passionate about wild plants and antiquities, shared insights with the Saudi Press Agency, highlighting the diverse array of distinctive aromatic plants found in the Northern Borders Region. Among these plants are mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), germander (Teucrium chamaedrys), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), forssk (Asteriscus graveolens), and Judean wormwood (Artemisia judaica).
The region experiences the prevalence of seasonal aromatic plants, adding to its natural charm. Clovers (genus Trifolium), cress (Lepidium sativum), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), false fleabane (Pulicaria undulata), and roemeria (Prickly Poppy) are among the notable aromatic plants contributing to the rich biodiversity.
Aromatic plants are known for containing volatile oils with concentrated aromatic compounds. These compounds serve various purposes, as some plants are edible, others are utilized in the medical field, and some find application in the manufacturing of perfumes. These aromatic compounds can be present in any part of the plant, from leaves to flowers.
Specialists have recognized that the desert in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stands as the largest globally in terms of the number and diversity of plants. While the variety of spring trees worldwide is limited, Saudi Arabia boasts an extensive array of wild shrubs, exceeding 1,000 species. This abundance of plant life not only contributes to the ecological richness of the region but also underscores the Kingdom's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
