Vibrant Ahneh plant thrives in Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve

Rafha, Teucrium oliverianum, commonly known as "Ahneh," is a captivating native plant flourishing in the Arabian Peninsula. Renowned for its evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves and striking blue-violet flowers, this member of the Lamiaceae family has become an iconic symbol of the region's flora. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve is home to a thriving population of Ahneh, a testament to its resilience and adaptability. Abdullah Al Barrak, a wild plant expert, highlighted the plant's role as a valuable source for honeybees and its potential for ornamental use. With its ability to reproduce rapidly through seeds and maintain its beauty for over three months with proper care, Ahneh is a prized addition to any landscape. The reserve itself has witnessed remarkable ecological progress since its establishment in 2018. Vegetation cover has surged from 1.5% to an impressive 6.7%, showcasing a thriving ecosystem. The reserve now boasts over 179 plant species, includi ng 113 seasonal and 66 perennial varieties. Source: Bahrain News Agency