The Alashan Plateau semi-desert ecoregion (WWF ID: PA1302) covers the southwestern portion of the Gobi Desert where precipitation in the mountains is sufficient for a short part of the summer to support sparse plant life.

However, parts of it still receive enough precipitation to support areas of semi-arid desert plant communities.

Shrubs such as saxaul (Haloxylon ammodendron) and the semi-perennial Reaumuria soongorica add stability to the soil and attract associated species.

Areas with more moisture support semi-desert communities of wormwoods (Artemisia), bean caper (Zygophyllum), and Calligonum mongolicum.

The Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park is in Mongolia's north-central part of the ecoregion.