Blepharis Ciliaris (Hairy Blepharis – شوك الضب)

Blepharis Ciliaris, commonly known as the Hairy Blepharis or شوك الضب in Arabic, is a small, drought-tolerant perennial herb native to the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, and South Asia. It is easily recognized by its spiny stems, small green leaves, and attractive pale blue to lavender flowers that appear during the cooler months. This hardy desert plant thrives in sandy and gravelly soils, making it highly suitable for xeriscaping and arid-land restoration projects.

Benefits of Blepharis Ciliaris

• Highly drought- and heat-tolerant — ideal for desert landscaping
• Stabilizes sandy soils and prevents erosion
• Produces delicate flowers that attract pollinators
• Serves as a forage plant for native desert fauna
• Valuable for ecological restoration and sustainable greening programs

Care Tips for Blepharis Ciliaris

• Light: Prefers full sun exposure
• Watering: Very minimal; water only during establishment
• Soil: Grows best in sandy or rocky, well-draining soils
• Pruning: Low maintenance; remove dry stems occasionally
• Fertilizer: Not required; thrives in nutrient-poor desert conditions