The
ghaf tree
To analyze that The Ghaf tree is the national tree of the UAE as it is a historic
and cultural symbol of stability and peace in the UAE's desert environment.
-Duaa Faisal 9I 17331
What is the significance of the Ghaf tree?
Ecological Role: The tree helps prevent soil erosion, provides shade, and supports
desert wildlife.
Historical Use: Traditionally used for wood, food, and medicine, reflecting its
practical value.
Cultural Symbol: It's a national symbol, representing strength and resilience.
Conservation: Efforts are in place to protect and preserve the Ghaf tree for its
cultural and ecological significance.
1.
What is the importance of trees in the Quran?
Planting trees is considered worship. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) encouraged people
to plant trees many times, in many ways. It is said in the 18th verse of Surah Hajj of
the Holy Qur'an that the tree prostrates to Allah
1.
What is the other name of Ghaf tree?
The Ghaf tree is also known by its scientific name, which is Prosopis cineraria.
Additionally, it is sometimes referred to as the "Arabian acacia" or "desert date" tree.
1.
What are the medicinal uses of Ghaf tree?
The Ghaf tree has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. In simple
terms, people have used different parts of the tree for making medicines to treat
ailments. This includes using the tree's sap for healing properties and its parts for
addressing health issues.
1.
Which tree is important to Islam?
The Ghaf tree is important in Islam because it's believed to be the tree from which
Prophet Muhammad made his pulpit. It holds religious significance and is a symbol of
humility and simplicity.
1.
01
Resilience Symbol:
It represents strength and resilience,
teaching the value of facing challenges
with determination.
04
Cultural Identity:
As a UAEs national symbol, it fosters pride and
understanding of one's culture, aligning with moral
education's emphasis on respect for heritage.
03
Environmental Lesson:
The tree's role in the desert teaches the
importance of caring for nature, promoting
values like responsibility.
02
Community Support:
Historical uses of the tree show the significance of
helping one another, reinforcing the value of
community and cooperation.
I am the Ghaf tree, living in the UAE. In the hot desert, I stand tall, symbolizing
strength and resilience. My roots run deep, reaching for water beneath the sandy soil.
I provide shade for creatures seeking refuge from the scorching sun.
People here have known me for generations. They use my wood for building and find
nourishment in my pods and seeds. My sap has healing powers, offering relief to
those in need. I am a part of the culture, a symbol of endurance in the face of
challenges.
In this arid land, I play a vital role, preventing soil erosion and supporting other life
in the desert. I witness the changing seasons, adapting to the harsh environment. As
the national tree, I am a living story of survival and strength in the UAE.
How was Ghaf trees were
useful to people
Travelling in the desert?
1.
Shade and Shelter: They gave shade, a cool break
from the hot sun to travellers.
2.
Navigation: Their unique appearance acted as a
guide, helping travellers find their way in the
vast desert.
3.
Water Source: Ghaf trees' deep roots hinted at
the presence of water underground, crucial
information for travellers searching for water.
4.
Firewood: The wood was handy for making
fires, providing warmth and light during cold
nights.
What would you suggest
be the other tree if not
Ghaf in the UAE? Why?
I would suggest the Sidr tree as it has been
historically valued in the region for its
adaptability to dry environments and its
cultural significance. It is mentioned in
Islamic traditions, including references in
the Quran, adding a cultural and religious
connection. Like the Ghaf tree, the Sidr tree
can provide shade, stabilize soil, and offer
various ecosystem benefits.
The Ghaf tree is adapted to thrive in hot and arid environments like the UAE. If planted in a cold
region, it might face challenges because it is not naturally suited to colder temperatures. The tree could
struggle to survive and may not grow well. Cold climates can affect its ability to withstand freezing
temperatures, potentially leading to issues like frost damage. It's crucial to consider a tree species that is
well-suited to the specific climate conditions of the area for successful growth and health.
What are the various medicinal ways in
which Ghaf tree is used for?
The ghaf is also used in traditional medicines to treat rheumatism, asthma, bronchitis and bites from
scorpions and snakes. The tree provides environmental benefits, exhaling oxygen to reduce carbon
emissions, stabilising sand dunes, improving soil fertility and boosting the growth of crop plants under its
shade.
1. Drought Resistance:
The tree has developed mechanisms to
withstand long periods without
water, making it well-suited for arid conditions.
2. Salt Tolerance:
They can tolerate soils with higher salt
content, a common feature in arid
regions.
3. Adaptability:
4. Deep Roots:
The Ghaf tree is adaptable to
varying soil types and can grow in
sandy or rocky soils commonly
found in desert environments.
Ghaf trees have deep roots
That help them access
underground water
sources, allowing them to
thrive in dry soils.
5. Hardiness:
It can endure high temperatures
and intense sunlight,
showcasing its ability to thrive in
harsh climates.
Increase in plantation over the past 3 years
1. Which year the plantation was high and
what might have been the reason?
The number of seeded Ghaf trees has increased:
it has gone from 80 trees in 2020, 165 in 2021
to an incredible number of 200 planted Ghaf
trees in 2022 due to more people volunteering in
the program
2. What measures UAE has taken to increase the
plantation?
UAE has used many simple measures to increase
plantation like: Afforestation Projects,
Community Engagement, Collaborations, WaterEfficient Practices, Research and Development
The Plant a Tree campaign conducted in partnership
with Goumbook, whom have planted an incredible 445
Ghaf seeds throughout the years.
Thank you
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