Riyadh: The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve: is home to more than 550 species of wild and grazing plants that play a vital role in nutrient cycling and maintaining the region's ecological balance.
According to Saudi Press Agency, herbaceous and shrubby species constitute the majority of the reserve's plant species. Among the most important is the White Saxaul tree, a large tree widely distributed in sandy environments across all areas within the reserve, including the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Tabuk, and Hail regions.
The tree can grow to more than three meters in height, live for up to 70 years, and plays a vital role in stabilizing sand dunes and preventing soil erosion. Well adapted to arid desert environments with minimal rainfall, the tree develops roots that can extend for tens of meters to reach underground water sources.
The reserve is committed to protecting its vegetation cover while ensuring its long-term sustainability by implementing a range of projects to expand green spaces and promote plant diversity in cooperation with relevant government agencies and local community organizations.