Rare Plant 'Silene arabica' Blooms in Northern Borders Region

Northern Borders Region has witnessed a diverse seasonal vegetation cover this year following an exceptional rainy season. One of the key outcomes has been the reappearance of the rare wild plant Silene arabica, which had been at risk of extinction.
 Belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family, the plant is noted for its beauty and environmental significance. It grows in desert and semi-desert environments, particularly in areas that retain rainwater, such as moist or "dahina" soil—fertile earth found in valleys, ravines, and clay depressions—known for its ability to preserve moisture for extended periods.
 Silene arabica is distinguished by its herbaceous structure and delicate white flowers, making it a prominent aesthetic feature in the region's natural landscape. It typically blooms during the spring months following sufficient rainfall.
 The plant forms part of the pastoral vegetation cover and plays a vital role in soil stabilization and erosion prevention, contributing to environmental sustainability and supporting local biodiversity.
 Environmental specialists noted that the reappearance of Silene arabica this year in the Northern Borders Region is a positive indicator of a strong rainy season and reflects the renewal of plant life across the area.