Some ecophysiological studies on arak in the western region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract EN

Salvadora persica L.

commonly known as Arak was the only species of Salvadoru observed in the forests of western coast regions of Saudi Arabia.

It grew in arable land of wadi Jizan to even in sand dunes of inland zones of Al-Lcyth .

The arak trees often grew in association with Acacia sp .

In order to establish replantation of this economically valuable species in the Kingdom.

factors affecting its propagation , possibilities of vegetative propagation .

and habitat was examined.

Vegetative propagation by stem cutting was highly successful if the cuttings were made from 1-2 year old branches collected during July-August but not in February.

Best rooting was observed within 6-8 weeks.

for cuttings planted in pure sand than those planted in other sand soil mixes.

Seeds from fresh ripened berries germinated up to 100% at temperature between 25-30 aC.

However.

older (4 years) seed lots failed to germinate even after cold water soaking.

In plant analysis.

leaves contain highest amount (%) of ash than other organs.