Found throughout Africa and into the Arabian Peninsula, umbrella thorn acacia (Vachellia tortilis) thrives in desert conditions, and its pods and leaves provide much needed food for desert animals. It is named for its umbrella shape and the thorns that grow in pairs along its branches. Many birds next in the umbrella thorn acacia, using the thorns and high branches for protection.

Tamarind is a monotypic perennial tree grown for its timber and edible fruits. Tamarind trees yield brown seed fruits with a sweet, acidic pulp used in various varieties of cuisines around the world. The pulp is also used as a metal polish.

The desert date (Balanites aegyptiaca) is an important shrub in Africa because it provides edible fruit that grows in many conditions, from arid to flooded climates and in very poor soils. The plant is also used as wood for furniture, tools, and fuel. This tree is truly multipurpose since its sticky gum is also an effective glue.

An important subsistence crop, pearl millet is hardy and drought-tolerant. Also known as Cenchrus americanus, it grows well near deserts where the rainfall is low. It has been cultivated in the United States since the 1850s and there are records of this important crop being grown since 2000 B.C.

The toothbrush tree, as its name suggests, is often used as a natural substitute for a toothbrush; its fibrous branches make it quite effective at the task. Additionally, there are now modern toothpastes made using extracts from the toothbrush tree. It is most commonly found in Africa and the Middle East.

Juncus oxycarpus is a perennial grass-like species characterized by its upright, cylindrical, and hollow stems, known as culms. Typically found in wetlands and marshy areas, juncus oxycarpus adapts well to saturated soils. Its dark brown, sharply pointed fruiting bodies provide a key identifying feature, contrasting with its dense clusters of greenish inflorescences that have a bristly appearance. Juncus oxycarpus’s capability to thrive in water-logged conditions demonstrates a specialized evolution for wet habitats.

Honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) is a species of thorny shrub related to legumes. It grows throughout the southwestern United States and Mexico and has become invasive in Africa and Australia. In some locations honey mesquite can grow to the height of a large tree; one famous example at Smoke Tree Ranch in California measures 12 m tall.

Wandering Jew has been introduced to North America where it is considered a noxious weed. It can be highly invasive - spreading across crops and pastures, outcompeting more desirable plants.

Swollen fingergrass (Chloris barbata) is a common grass in tropical and subtropical regions including the Pacific islands. It spreads rapidly in disturbed land, overgrazed fields, and road verges and can grow in saline soils. Although it is not highly palatable, cattle will eat the young grass.

Pond lovegrass has historically been used as animal fodder or a forage crop, even a cereal crop during times of famine. This erect annual grass can be naturally found in disturbed areas such as roadsides. It flowers through late summer and autumn and prefers sun. The grass has been utilized in flower beds, although it has invasive weed potential.

Eragrostis atrovirens is a species of grass. It is found in the tropical and subtropical parts of the world.

The garden croton is a showy tropical display that does well indoors or in warm climates. Known for its attractive foliage, this plant can have both color and structural variations in its leaves. Leaf colors can include orange, yellow, scarlet, white, and green, and many times all are present on one plant.

Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) is a flowering perennial herb native to North America. In late summer and fall, one sneezeweed plant can produce as many as 100 yellow flower heads in a branching array. This species attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

Egyptian grass is native to Africa and can function to anchor loose soil or sand. Because it always shows up on barren land and grows quickly, it is considered an invasive species in the United States and some other regions.

African asparagus comprise a diverse genus of evergreen plants that can grow as lianas, bushes, or climbing plants. They are found in a wide variety of habitats, from rainforest to semi-desert regions. All african asparagus species vary in their appearance, which is dependent on their native habitat. Some species are grown as vegetables, and others are grown as ornamentals.

Asian spiderflower (Arivela viscosa) flourishes in warm humid regions globally. This versatile plant grows up to 1 m tall. Products made with asian spiderflower are used in food stores to prevent certain weevil infestations. Its tiny seeds can be carried on the wind or stick to fur or clothing.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herbaceous perennial famous for its essential oils and mild scent. Its oils and extracts are widely used in perfume and beauty products, as well as household cleaning products. Lemon balm can be cultivated as an ornamental plant that also attracts honeybees. It has been grown and cultivated by humans since at least the 16th century.

Jungle rice (Echinochloa colona) is a fast-growing summer grass that requires heat and moisture. It looks similar to commercial rice plants and is considered a noxious weed in rice fields. It can be eaten by animals including water buffaloes.

Sand crown-berry is a robust, tropical tree that stands out with its reddish-brown bark and elliptical leaves which acquire a glossy green appearance as they mature. This hardy plant often thrives in Savannah landscapes, absorbing the intense sun to bolster its role in traditional medicine, reputed for anti-fever properties. Its resilience against harsh climates is echoed by its firm, upright stance and hearty root system.

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a large tree with wide, oval, glossy leaves. Its milky white latex was used for making rubber before Pará rubber tree came into use, hence the name. Rubber tree is an ornamental species, often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.