[1] Native to the deserts of the Arabian Peninsula including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar where it is known locally as arfaj (Arabic: عرفج).

[2] The arfaj consists of a complicated network of branches scattered with small thorny leaves and bright yellow flowers about 1.5 cm wide.

In a few months, the branches and newly formed leaves become vigorous, and the yellow flowers are produced, attracting insects and birds.

In the summer, when the earth has dried out, the leaves fall and the branches become naked and lignified with living fibers.

In times of stress, these alterations may be important in increasing the chance of survival, water and reserve material stored in the stems to remain alive by allowing it to have few dormant bud.