Arabian primrose
Arnebia hispidissima
Family: Boraginaceae
What it is like
An annual herb. It grows 40 cm tall. It is branched from the base. The roots are red. The leaves are simple and alternate. They are narrowly sword shaped and 2-8 cm long by 1 cm wide. The flowers are like a spike.
The roots also have an antibacterial effect. They are used in medicine.
Where it is found
It is a tropical and subtropical plant. It grows in dry sandy or stony soil. It can be in desert plains.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Arabia, Cameroon, Chad, Egypt, India, Middle East, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, United Arab Emirates, UAE
How it is used for food
An edible dye is obtained from the roots and used to colour food.
Edible parts
Roots - edible dye
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Kwhil