Al-jouf: These days, the valleys and ravines of Al-Jouf have taken on a vibrant spring scene, as the spread of qaysoum (compositae) and shayh (artemisia) plants has infused the landscape with color and fragrant aromas, forming a tableau that reflects the richness and diversity of the region's wild environment.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the expanse of these aromatic plants has been documented across valley floors and flood channels, where recent rainfall and mild weather have encouraged dense growth. This has created a vegetation cover that enhances the region's beauty and lends it a distinctive seasonal character attractive to visitors and nature enthusiasts.
Environmental observers noted that qaysoum and shayh are among the most significant wild plants in northern Saudi Arabia, distinguished by their resilience to desert conditions and their ecological benefits in stabilizing soil and curbing sand encroachment.
They added that the presence of these plants signals improved vegetation cover and a strong rainy season, emphasizing the importance of preserving them and limiting harmful practices such as overgrazing and indiscriminate uprooting.
During this season, Al-Jouf's valleys transform into a lively natural destination, where the sweet scent of qaysoum mingles with the aroma of shayh, capturing the beauty of spring, the serenity of the desert, and nature at its peak abundance.