Blooming parasitic plant Cistanche tubulosa (desert hyacinth, dhanoon, Tartuth) with a host plant Arthrocnemum macrostachyum near Purple Island (Jazirat Bin Ghanim). Al Khor, Qatar, February 6, 2015

The image presents a striking composition of two distinct plants: Cistanche tubulosa, also known as the desert hyacinth or dhanoon, and its host plant Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, situated near Purple Island (Jazirat Bin Ghanim) in Al Khor, Qatar.

**Cistanche tubulosa**

* **Appearance**: The desert hyacinth boasts long, thin stems that appear somewhat wiry.
* **Coloration**: Its foliage is characterized by a vibrant green hue with purple undertones at the tips of its leaves.
* **Blooming**: In full bloom, the plant showcases small, delicate yellow flowers.

**Arthrocnemum macrostachyum**

* **Appearance**: This succulent species exhibits short, thick stems covered in small, rounded leaves that resemble tiny scales.
* **Coloration**: The foliage is predominantly green with purple undertones at the tips of its leaves.
* **Growth**: Arthrocnemum macrostachyum displays a sprawling growth habit, often forming dense mats.

**Overall Composition**

The desert hyacinth's slender stems and vibrant yellow flowers create a striking contrast against the backdrop of its host plant. The combination of these two species adds visual interest to the landscape near Purple Island (Jazirat Bin Ghanim) in Al Khor, Qatar. – AI vision