Verbascum virgatum Stokes

Hatmi, S. Al, Al Hinai, Abdulrahman, Al Qassabi, Zawan, Alzahrani, Ali Mohammed & Knees, Sabina, 2024, STUDIES IN THE FLORA OF ARABIA: XXXV. NEW RECORDS FROM THE SULTANATE OF OMAN, Edinburgh Journal of Botany 81 (2002), pp. 1-11 : 5-6

Verbascum virgatum Stokes

This is the first record of this species from the Arabian Peninsula . In Oman, the genus Verbascum is represented by three species: V. sinaiticum Benth. in DC., V. akhdarense (Murb.) Hub.-Mor. and V. omanense Hub. -Mor., the last two of which are endemic to northern Oman. The record of this species is the first occurrence of this genus in southern Oman. It has been found in a few locations in the mountains of Dhofar; all are near disturbed areas or ruderal areas.

The original distribution of Verbascum virgatum was limited to western Europe, but it has since been introduced to many regions of the world, particularly in parts of the Americas and Australia ( POWO, 2023). The species is considered invasive in many parts of the world; it can compete with native flora and forms dense monocultures. Although it is not yet clear how widespread this species is in Dhofar’s mountains, it is important to monitor its spread and take steps to control it.

Specimens. OMAN. Southern Oman: Dhofar, Jabal Qamar, Kezat amqat, 16°48′59.1′′N, 53°23′20.9′′E,

965 m, L. Al Harthy, A. Al Hinai LAH 186 (OBG).

New records for Oman

Aizoaceae