Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Bahrain

In the arid climate of Bahrain, with its intense heat and sporadic rainfall, several resilient garden weeds have adapted well. Among these, Common purslane, Chamber bitter, and Common sowthistle are notably common. These pervasive species present ongoing challenges for gardeners and landscaping professionals, as they compete with cultivated plants for resources and can be difficult to eradicate, necessitating consistent management efforts to maintain plant health and aesthetic appeal in Bahraini gardens.

Most Common Weeds

1. Common purslane

Portulaca oleracea, colloquially known as common purslane, is an annual succulent species with reddish stems and tiny yellow, five-petal flowers. It is used for culinary purposes in various parts of the world, most often raw, in salads. Common purslane is also a good companion plant for crops that thrive in moist soils.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

2. Chamber bitter

Chamber bitter is blooms in summer. Its striking branched leaf pattern makes it an attractive ornamental, but it is a weedy plant that takes careful management to stop its seeds from spreading to unwanted areas. It is considered invasive in the southern United States.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

3. Devil's trumpet

Devil's trumpet (Datura metel) is a highly toxic annual species. Devil's trumpet ingestion can cause headaches, hallucinations, coma, and death. In spite of its toxicity, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental flower.

Growth Rate:

Slow

Your Essential Companion for Global Plant Exploration

From American natives to Philippine tropics, discover plants worldwide with our app.

Download the App for Free

4. Common sowthistle

Common sowthistle is a common weed originated in Europe and West Asia. Alongside many sister species that hard to distinguish, it is considered to be an invasive plant in many parts of the world. Its leaves with some bitter taste are editable either green as a part of a salad or cooked in various ways.

5. Lambsquarters

Lambsquarters has many other names, including pigweed, goosefoot, and bacon weed. This plant seems to appear out of nowhere and is considered by many to be a pesky weed. However, the greens of this plant are edible, can be prepared similar to spinach, and are packed with nutrients.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

6. Graceful spurge

Graceful spurge (Euphorbia hypericifolia) is a perennial flowering bush that blooms all year round. This species grows best in full sunlight or partial shade. Graceful spurge is resistant to rabbits and deer due to its toxic sap. This species is often cultivated as an ornamental plant and grown in containers, hanging baskets and gardens. Gardeners should wear gloves when handling graceful spurge due to its toxic sap.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

7. Matted Sandmat

Matted Sandmat is an annual weed that grows flat along the ground into a matted form. It has a long tap root and hardy seeds, which make it difficult to eradicate. This plant’s sap can irritate the skin and is toxic.

8. Prickly lettuce

Prickly lettuce, in spite of its appearance, is the closest wild relative of cultivated lettuce. Even though it is widely considered a weed, it can be used in the kitchen. Young leaves of prickly lettuce are edible and the bitter milky latex can also be made into a condiment or to add flavor to salads. Consuming in large quantities could cause digestive upsets.

9. Puncture Vine

Puncture Vine_ (Tribulus terrestris)_ is a poisonous plant. The fruit consists of burs with sharp spines, which can puncture the skin of human beings and animals. They can also rupture a bicycle tire (hence the name) and penetrate shoe soles. The leaves contain compounds known as saponins, which are toxic to livestock.

10. Asthma-plant

Asthma-plant (Euphorbia hirta) is a ground-hugging spurge weed whose branches can grow to 61 cm long. It blooms from summer through early fall, dying off after the first frost. A milky sap will seep from broken stems or leaves. It can be a nuisance weed that reproduces rapidly.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

11. London rocket

The london rocket is an annual herb in the Sisymbrium irio family that can grow up to 91 cm tall. The yellow flowers are small with four petals. The leaves, seeds, and flowers of this plant are all edible. The Bedouin people have been known to utilize the leaves of the london rocket as a substitute for tobacco.

12. Black nightshade

Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is a highly toxic plant and caution should be exercised around this plant. It's said that black nightshade fruits can technically be consumed if they are fully ripe and properly cooked and prepared. Generally though, due to the danger they present, no one would ever want to try to eat this plant.

13. Field bindweed

Field bindweed (*Convolvulus arvensis*) is a native Eurasian plant related to morning glory. It is considered an invasive species in non-native areas because it competes with other plants for sunlight and moisture. Field bindweed is very hard to eradicate because its taproots grow so deep, and its seeds can remain viable for decades.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

14. Water hyacinth

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a fast-growing flowering plant species with ovular, waxy leaves. Water hyacinth is listed as a federal noxious weed in the United States. This species is invasive to ponds, lakes, rivers and other wetland habitats. It forms dense, floating mats of vegetation that restricts light to underwater environments.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

15. Johnson grass

Experts consider johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) to be one of the ten worst weeds in the world. If frost or heat causes the plant to wilt, it can produce enough hydrogen cyanide to kill livestock. It grows at such a prodigious rate, it can choke out other crops. It’s named after Colonel William Johnson, an Alabama plantation owner who sowed lots of its seed around 1840.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

16. Ribwort plantain

Ribwort plantain grows in a number of different habitats as long as it has enough sunlight. Its leaves have characteristic parallel veins that make it easy to identify. The heads of ribwort plantains get popped off in some common British children's games. Its seeds are critical food sources for songbirds, and its leaves are eaten by rabbits and deer.

17. Tarragon

Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus) is a herb found widely across the Eurasian and North American continents. Tarragon has hints of anise in its fragrance. It is most well known as a culinary herb, especially in French cuisine. It is also used as a popular soda flavoring in eastern Asia. Curiously, the French cultivar with the strongest flavor is sterile, making it much harder to propagate than the other popular variants.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

18. Culantro

Culantro, not to be confused with cilantro or coriander, is a culinary herb with a strong flavor used in dishes across East Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Cultivation is increasing as demand for this herb grows in economies around the world. In tropical areas, this herb can be grown as a perennial, but it will likely only grow as an annual in colder areas.

19. Slender yellow woodsorrel

The slender yellow woodsorrel flowers have five yellow petals that are between 5 mm and 1.02 cm. The easily distinguishable leaves come in threes and are 1.02 to 2 cm wide. The slender yellow woodsorrel can be found globally with likely origins somewhere in North America.

20. Goosegrass

When there is a famine or a lack of food, the seeds of goosegrass are eaten. This agricultural weed is utilized for cultivated crops, animal feed, and golf courses. It is classified as an environmental weed in various nations. Some Asian countries employ parts of this plant as herbal medicine.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

Discover 4 Exciting Reasons to Choose PictureThis

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Identify toxic plants around you

Easily find your perfect green friends

Get full care tips and tricks for your plants

Download the App for Free

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants in Bahrain

Most Common Toxic Plants

Bahrain's arid climate with high temperatures and low rainfall presents unique conditions that could support the existence of specialized toxic flora. Specific factors such as soil salinity and drought tolerance play a role in the growth of potentially harmful plant species. While not prevalent, the occurrence of toxic plants such as , , and in certain habitats pose ecological concerns and require monitoring to safeguard environmental health and public safety.

Most Common Flowers

Bahrain, with its arid climate and sandy soil, nurtures an array of indigenous flowers that flourish in this unique environment. Among them are , , and , which add enchanting splashes of color to the landscape. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also hold significant symbolism and contribute to the ecological balance of the region. Trustworthy sources validate the diverse beauty and importance of these native blossoms in Bahrain.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

With Spring's arrival, Bahrain witnesses a gentle shift in its climate, awakening an array of vivid flower plants. Radiant blossoms like , , and spring forth, each symbolizing renewal and the rich biodiversity of the region. These flowers not only add a splash of color but also play a crucial role in the local ecosystem, marking the season's exuberant beginning.

Most Common Spring Fruits

In Bahrain, Spring breathes life with moderate warmth, fostering the growth of diverse fruit plants. The season's mild climes are perfect for the maturation of local fruits, bringing , , and to harvest with vibrant freshness. These fruits are emblematic of Spring's bounty and are integral to both the local diet and cultural celebrations, marking the season with a taste as rejuvenating as the weather itself.

Most Common Fruits

Bahrain's warm climate and arid soil provide a unique environment that is surprisingly conducive to the growth of certain fruit plants. Water conservation techniques and salt-tolerant rootstocks have enabled the cultivation of , , and , which are prominent in local horticulture. These fruits hold a special place in Bahrain's culture and cuisine, reflecting the nation's agricultural adaptability and heritage. Their cultivation not only supports local traditions but also contributes to food diversity and the greenery of the region.

Most Common Trees

Bahrain's climatic and soil conditions provide a favorable environment for the growth of native trees. Three emblematic trees found in the region include , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within Bahrain. They contribute to the region's biodiversity and are deeply intertwined with the local traditions and heritage. Reliable sources highlight the importance of preserving and protecting these trees to maintain the ecological balance and cultural identity of the territory.

Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled in the arid reaches of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain's harsh climate and sparse rainfall challenge the verdure. Despite the daunting environment, towering arboreal wonders have emerged. Notable are , , and , piercing the skyline with their lofty canopies. These species stand as verdant landmarks, providing not just ecological benefits but also narrating the historical interplay between nature and Bahrain's rich cultural tapestry.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Bahrain, though cold, is a haven for certain flowers that brave the chill. Among these resilient blooms are , , and . Admire their beauty and find solace in their symbolic depth as they flourish in the frosty environment.

Most Common Plants

In Bahrain, you can find Madagascar periwinkle, Chinese hibiscus, Common fig, Tomato, Aloe vera, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.