Peganum harmala is a perennial plant with a low-growing, bushy habit reaching 2-3 ft. (0.6-0.9 m) in height.
Foliage
Leaves are succulent, dark green in color, smooth, fleshy, alternate, irregularly divided, and from 0.8-2 in. (2-5 cm) long.
Flowers
The white, five-petal flowers have green sepals and yellow stamens. They are present from late spring to early fall in the axils of the leaves.
Fruit
Seeds are medium-size and found in a 2-celled or 4-celled green capsule that dries and bursts open at maturity. The plant also spreads by lateral roots.
Ecological Threat
P. harmala is found in disturbed environments such as roadsides and fields in desert to semi-desert areas. The plant is found in many western states and can be poisonous to people and livestock. P. harmala is native to Africa, temperate and tropical Asia and Europe.