Tephrosia apollinea (ظفرة عريضة)

Tephrosia apollinea, locally called ظفرة عريضة, is a perennial shrub native to arid regions of the Arabian Peninsula. With its grey-green leaves and small purple flowers, this hardy plant is valued for its drought tolerance, medicinal properties, and ability to improve degraded soils. It plays a significant role in desert ecosystem restoration and native landscaping.

Benefits of Tephrosia apollinea

• Used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory and healing purposes
• Highly drought-tolerant and survives in poor, rocky soils
• Supports biodiversity and provides cover for small desert fauna
• Improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation
• Excellent for ecological restoration and xeriscaping

Care Tips for Tephrosia apollinea

• Light: Prefers full sun exposure
• Watering: Very low; water occasionally during establishment
• Soil: Grows best in sandy, rocky, and well-drained soils
• Pruning: Minimal; remove dead or damaged branches
• Fertilizer: Not required due to nitrogen-fixing ability