Quick facts
| Arabic name | العرعر |
|---|---|
| English name | Juniper (Arar) |
| Scientific name | Juniperus procera |
| Family | Cypress family (Cupressaceae) |
| Plant type | Evergreen conifer tree |
| Height | Can reach 20 m or more in good conditions |
| Water use | Low |
Planting and harvest calendar
February to April
At the start of the rain season in the highlandsA protected wild tree; it is not harvested and must not be cut
Times are general for the Saudi climate and may shift a few weeks by region: cooler in the highlands and the north, warmer on the coasts and in the south.
Description
A fragrant conifer. Young leaves are like needles, and older leaves are small scales. The red-brown bark peels in strips. The fruits are small berry-like cones that turn blue-purple when ripe. The wood smells nice.
Where it grows
It grows on the slopes and peaks of the Sarawat Mountains. The largest forests are in Asir (Abha, Al-Soudah) and Al-Baha, and some grow in the Taif highlands. It likes high, foggy and cool places.
Soil
Rocky or gravelly mountain soil with good drainage. It does not like standing water around its roots.
Water and irrigation
In nature it lives on rain and fog. Young plants need regular water until they settle. Adult trees can handle some dry periods.
Climate and light
Cool to mild mountain climate with full sun. It handles cold well but not the strong heat of low areas.
Propagation
Grows from seeds, but they sprout slowly. Birds spread the seeds after eating the fruits.
Benefits and uses
- Protects mountain soil from erosion
- A beautiful landmark and tourist attraction in Asir and Al-Baha
- Its wood was used in the roofs and doors of old houses
- A home for birds and wildlife
Drawbacks
- Grows very slowly
- Not suitable for hot, low areas
- Can suffer from dieback during drought
- Its pollen can cause allergy for some people
Important notes
Cutting trees and collecting firewood are not allowed by law in Saudi Arabia.
Sources and references
The information was collected and checked from these scientific sources:
- Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Juniperus procera
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Juniperus procera
- Wikipedia: Juniperus procera
- Chaudhary, S. A. (1999-2001). Flora of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ministry of Agriculture and Water, Riyadh.
- National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC)
- Photo source: Wikimedia Commons (free license)