Avicennia (Grey Mangrove)

Avicennia (Grey Mangrove) – شجرة القرم الرمادي

Avicennia, known locally in the UAE as شجرة القرم or القرم الرمادي, is the dominant mangrove species found along UAE coastlines. It is a unique salt-tolerant tree that grows naturally in tidal areas, playing a critical role in protecting shorelines, supporting marine life, and enhancing biodiversity.

This species thrives in saline and brackish water, making it one of the toughest coastal plants in the region. Its distinctive features include smooth grey bark, aerial roots (pneumatophores), and small yellowish flowers that bloom seasonally. The pneumatophores rise above the soil surface, helping the tree breathe in waterlogged conditions.

Mangroves like القرم الرمادي are increasingly used in environmental restoration, coastal greening projects, and ecotourism landscapes because they stabilize soil, improve water quality, and create habitats for fish, birds, and marine organisms.

Avicennia is low-maintenance once established but requires saline or brackish water, making it suitable mainly for coastal rehabilitation or controlled saltwater planting systems.