Kalanit
Israel Plant Magazine
Septenber 2015
The White Leadtree (Leucaena leucocephala) – is it starting to invade in Israel?
Jean-Marc Dufour-Dror imdd@netvision.net.il
Keywords: Israeli plants, Mimosaceae, alien plants, invasive plants, Leguminosae, wood for heating
The White Leadtree is a tree or large shrub of Mexican and Central American origin. In Israel it serves especially as an ornamental plant in gardens. Even though the White Leadtree is included in the list of the 100 most invasive organisms in the world (according o the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it was not characterized as an invasive plant until recent years. However, the large number of recent observations of the White Leadtree in open areas, raises a question regarding the dynamics and status of this plant in our region.
Medicinal uses of the Common Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)
Tzvia Shapira, engages in the field of natural substances in medicinal plants. tzviashap@gmail.com
Keywords: natural substances, Fumariaceae, Pharmacology, traditional medicine, useful and medicinal plants
The Common Fumitory was discovered in Israel only in recent years, and a comprehensive article about it was published in Kalanit following the Kalanit study tour in April 2015. the plant is known in traditional medicine as a medicinal plant in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. In these regions it is common to reap it from nature during the flowering season. After being dried in the shade only the superterranean parts of the plant are used. The active chemical components of the plant serve to treat the nervous system, the intestines, liver functioning, certain forms of cancer, etc.
The Sha'al Wadi basin in the Western Galilee – nature conservation, unique plants, and the dangers to their survival
Sico siambe17@gmail.com
Keywords: botanical sites, conservation, endangered plants, Western Galilee, Israeli plants
The drainage basin of the Sha'al Wadi in the Western Galilee still preserves natural habitats of Mediterranean woodlands and scrublands, but as a consequence of development activities that accompanied the establishment of new settlements in the area, their territory has diminished. The effect of human intervention is also felt in areas that still remain in their natural condition. The natural flora in the plot described in the article, is rich, and recently additional up-to-date information has been added regarding the unique species of plants in the area, and plants that to date. were not known in the area.
While the report was being written, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, the Drainage Authority, and the Western Galilee Union of Cities renewed their activity, and effort to conserve nature in this part of the country, and we send them wishes for success.
