DROUGHT TOLERANT AND
NATIVE ORNAMENTAL PLANTS
February 2005
This publication was produced for review by the United States Agency for International
Development. It was prepared by the Academy for Educational Development.
DROUGHT TOLERANT AND NATIVE
ORNAMENTAL PLANTS IN JORDAN
F AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES A
A desk research report by: Experts for Landscaping and Agriculture Consultants “Ur Gardens”
AMMAN-ZARQA BASIN
HIGHLANDS IN JORDAN
DISCLAIMER
The author's views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the
United States Agency for International Development or the United States Government.
Table of Contents
Introduction..................................................................................................................2
Common Elements Necessary for a Drought Tolerant Ornamental and Native
Plants Production Unit ................................................................................................3
Water Supply...........................................................................................................3
Mother plants stock .................................................................................................3
Shade house.............................................................................................................4
Storage facilities......................................................................................................4
Open field................................................................................................................4
Propagation house ...................................................................................................4
Working area ...........................................................................................................4
Plant selection .........................................................................................................5
Locations studied and recommended plant species ..................................................6
The Jordan Valley Karama area.............................................................................6
Agapanthus africanus/orientalis ..............................................................................6
Erythrina sp. ............................................................................................................7
Hibiscus syriacus.....................................................................................................7
Lantana montevidensis............................................................................................8
Strelitzia reginea......................................................................................................9
Verbena peruviana...................................................................................................9
Amman Zarqa Basin Kherbit Al-Samra ..............................................................12
Iris Nigricans (Black Iris)......................................................................................12
Buddleia davidii ....................................................................................................12
Cistuss sp...............................................................................................................13
Hemerocalis sp. .....................................................................................................13
Vitex ungus castus.................................................................................................14
Phlomis fruiticosa..................................................................................................14
Ghor Al Safi ............................................................................................................16
Agave sp................................................................................................................16
Aloe sp...................................................................................................................17
Echeveria sp ..........................................................................................................17
Crassula sp.............................................................................................................17
Sedum spectabillis.................................................................................................18
Appendix 1: Detailed Financial Analysis for Karama................................................22
Appendix 2: Detailed Financial Analysis for Kherbit Al-Samra................................23
Introduction
The purpose of this study is to show the potential of producing high value, drought tolerant
ornamental and native plants in Jordan to improve the resource utilization efficiency of
current cropping patterns. Farmers in Jordan are finding it increasingly difficult and less
feasible to grow traditional cash crops, such as tomatoes, cucumbers and eggplants, because
irrigation water is becoming scarce and the quality of available irrigation water is
deteriorating. The total water requirement of many ornamental and native plants is lower than
that for existing fruit and vegetable crop alternatives. In addition, most ornamental plants are
propagated by vegetative cuttings, so the larger the plants become over time, the more
cuttings become available. This is contrary to vegetables and fruit trees, whose productivity
declines over time.
Most ornamental and native plants are also less susceptible to the common foliar diseases
present in Jordan, which means lower investments on pesticides and safer environmental
practices. However, the most appealing factor for introducing drought tolerant native and
ornamental plants into local cropping patterns is the export potential. Since ornamental and
native plants are not consumable goods, most countries have less rules and regulations on
importing these items. Nonetheless, wholesale markets and supermarket chains do require
compliance with sanitary regulations and standards. Exporting ornamental plants has the
potential to become one of Jordan’s primary income-generating activities.
This study covers three geographic and climatic zones within Jordan, which are all contained
within the Knowledge and Action for Fostering Advances in Agriculture (KAFA’A)1 project
area. Plants adaptable to each zone or region were selected according to the specific
production characteristics of each zone. Whenever possible, data was collected and
economical analyses were carried out. The study also identifies the main obstacles to the
production of ornamental plants in each zone and recommends feasible solutions. However,
the main focus of the study is on the technical and practical aspects of establishing an
ornamental plant production unit and the necessary means for making it successful.
The study has been divided into sections, which are easy to understand and practical to apply,
starting with an explanation of the common elements needed for any ornamental plant
production unit (nursery), regardless of the location. However, the size of each unit will vary
according to the species grown. Species recommendations and economic information for
each of the three locations in the program area are presented. These locations include:
Karama in the Middle Jordan Valley, Al-Safi in the Southern Ghors, and Kherbit Al-Samra in
the Amman Zarqa Basin.
1
Official name: “Education and Information Program to Improve Irrigation Water Use Efficiency” (Project #273-C-00-03-00022)
2
Common Elements Necessary for a Drought Tolerant Ornamental
and Native Plants Production Unit
Among the most important factors to be considered for the establishment of a production unit
of the nature of the plants in the study are: water supply, mother plants stock, storage
facilities, open field area for final stages of growth in preparation for the sale, and working
facilities for labor to perform productions practices.
•
Water supply and the means of delivering to plants, this could be gravity fed (if
enough head is available), or pressurized systems (electrical or diesel driven motor
pumps).
•
The parental material has to be ensured, a reliable mother plants stock must be
found, including an area designated for growing them over a long period of time.
•
Structure to house the unit, a metal or other strong material structure that can
support some sort of shading net called “shade house”.
•
Storage facilities or areas where supplies, tools and other materials can be stored
for cultural practices.
•
An open field area where half-finished plants can be placed to grow and become
ready for the market.
•
As part of the facility there should be a propagation area fitted with the proper
tools, instruments and equipment; this is the area where the major production
operations take place.
•
A working area where labor and other employees can operate in for less refined
tasks than the propagation techniques.
Water Supply
Even the most drought tolerant plant needs to be provided with water during the
establishment stage. Without the basic minimum quantity of water, plants may be able to
survive but will not be capable of providing the farmer with the necessary growth to produce
the economic number of cuttings. In addition, un-rooted cuttings, rooted cuttings, young
plants and even the finished product cannot be treated as if they are drought tolerant plants,
until they are planted in the field or garden. Nevertheless, most plants in 16 cm. or 18 cm.
diameter pots can do well with as little as 0.4 liters of water per day.
Mother plants stock
The mother plants stock will be the major investment for farmers interested to venture in such
project. Quality, type and size of plant will determine the success or failure of the production
unit. The right choice of plant in terms of adaptability, and the right size or quality will either
speed up the operation or slow it down. The farmers must have technical assistance and
information as to what plants can survive and adapt in their region or climatic zone. The
selection has to be performed by an expert who will judge the quality and size of plant to be
used as a mother plant. Teaching farmers how to identify and differentiate between varieties
3
and species of the same genus is extremely important if the international market is their major
target.
Shade house
The shade house is a transition facility; a structure is needed where the farmer will modify the
environment for the plants. This change in environment is necessary for speeding up the
operation by minimizing the negative effects of both the chilling effects (slow growth/
dormancy) of winter and stress of hot summer days (high solar radiation and temperature). A
green house structure, with shading net to replace plastic sheets, is the most efficient structure
that can be used for this purpose. All rooted cuttings and young plants are placed in this
shade house for different periods of time, until they are acclimatized to go into the open field.
Some plants may even have to stay there during the entire period of growth. The size of the
shade house depends to a large extent on the type of plants in production and the zone where
the operation is taking place.
Storage facilities
One or several storage units are necessary to keep materials and equipment; these facilities
could be a single storage unit such as a small warehouse with well defined and separate
compartments for storage of different materials and equipment. Plant production requires
materials and equipment like peat moss, Perlite, fertilizers and chemicals, plastic containers,
and propagation utensils. Whether one or more facilities are needed will depend of the size
of the operation and more important on the requirements of the importing markets (in the
case that exports are part of business plan).
Open field
The open field is a roofless area where plants in containers 16cm.. or larger, are transferred to
from the shade house. These plants will grow there into maturity and final size before
leaving the nursery as finished products. The total size of this area is also dependent on the
type of plants, size of the operation and the zone where the operation is taking place.
Propagation house
The propagation house is the most important structure needed for the project in order to be
able to produce ornamental and native plants on a commercial level. The success of the
operation is directly dependent on the exit of managing the propagation house. According to
the zone, the type of plants produced, and the size of the operation, a propagation house can
be as simple as a small shade house or as complex as a large green house fitted with
sophisticated climate control systems and the most advanced propagation instruments and
tools. However, most such projects can start with the basic minimum propagation house, and
grow along with the project to expand it into a highly advanced propagation unit which can
meet the needs of their own projects and other projects in the same region.
Working area
The working area is the location where labor performs most cultural practices. Planting
and transplanting young plants and cuttings, soil mixing, preparing the cuttings and so
forth. The working area can be as small as 30 square meters with concrete flooring and a
4
shading structure for convenience or it can be a small to medium warehouse (50-100
square meters). The size of this working area depends greatly on the size of the
operation.
These are the common elements needed for the success of any ornamental plant production
unit. However, one can be creative and introduce other elements to improve and increase the
success rate and or the marketing potential, such as office area, a show room, a packing unit
for export, delivery truck, etc.
Plant selection
To ensure a good start and a successful operation, the proper selection of the mother plants
stock is critical. Most plants can survive for a few months at almost any location. This can
give a false indication to the farmer that the right selection may have been made. However,
it’s what will become of these plants in the long run that will be the true test. Needless to
say, a plant that grows in the mountainous region cannot survive in a desert area for more
than a few weeks or months at the most. The zone where the project will be established
should be studied carefully, before actually purchasing the mother plants. For farmers who
are not experienced in this field, consultation by an expert or experts is a must, especially
since climate is only one of the many factors that need to be considered.
This study provides the interested farmers or nursery business with as much information as
possible to help guide them in the three different zones selected to establish their units.
Guidelines to type of plants, size, sources (imported or local) and the approximate price are
shown in tables. The output by each plant species, the time needed to reach final stage of
sellable plant and the expected selling price (at the current market price of Jordan) are also
included.
5
Locations studied and recommended plant species
There are three locations selected for the study, which have been chosen based on the climate
characteristics and each assigned group of plants’ requirements of soil and water. The three
locations are: Jordan Valley Karama, Amman Zarqa Basin Kherbit Al-Samra, and Ghor ElSafi.
The Jordan Valley Karama area
The Jordan valley -Karama area is considered to be a subtropical zone and is characterized
by hot dry climate throughout the long summer months (average temperature is 36°C to 38°C
with a maximum of 43°C), with very short spring and fall seasons. Winter is also considered
to be relatively short and dry (average rainfall of 200-400 ml per year). Relative humidity is
between 20% and 40% throughout the year, with the exception of few weeks in winter. No
frost is to be expected during the winter season. Therefore, this climate pattern limits the
choice of plants that can be selected for the project.
A list of plants that can survive and perform well in this zone is provided. A detailed
discussion on the feasible quantity needed for each type of plant, the expected output of
cuttings, and the final product follows.
Agapanthus africanus/orientalis
The Agapanthus africanus/orientalis is an
evergreen plant that forms fountain like clumps
which give rise to several spikes of cluster-like
blue flowers. It is also a drought tolerant plant,
which flowers from June to August when fully
mature and does well in the cold and hot
climates of Jordan, the recommended spacing
is 50 x 50 cm.
http://plantfacts.osu.edu/plantlist/A/Agapanthus71.html. Ohio State University
Mature mother plants can provide an average
of three offsets a year. Harvesting is performed only once during the year. The current
cost of each mother plant in a 20cm. diameter container in the local market is 5.00 JD
(US$ 7.00)2. Each mother plant produces three offsets after three to six months. These
new plants are then transplanted along with the original mother plants to form the final
mother stock block. Six to nine months later each plant will give rise to an average of
three offsets, which are transplanted in 9 cm. diameter containers. Three months later,
each plant can be sold for 1.50 JD (US$ 2.12). The return on the initial investment is
3,600.00 JD (US$ 5,084.74) after a period of 15 to 18 months, if an initial mother plant
stock of 200 is used, see basis for the calculations in Table 1. The recommended initial
investment of 1,000.00 (US$ 1,412.42), for the mother plants stock (200) is considered
high; however, in addition to the local demand, the return due to high export potential
will easily cover for this cost. Furthermore, low propagation cost as compared to other
plants also makes this choice a very good candidate for the sustainability of the business.
2
Exchange rate used 1 US Dollar = 0.708 Jordanian Dinar
6
Erythrina sp
The Erythrina is a semi deciduous small
tree/large shrub, which is well known in the
Americas as the "coral tree". The Erythrina
has a magnificent flower shape, color and
flowering periods (from mid summer to late
autumn), as well as its wide range of
tolerance for different climates are good
characteristics for choosing it as a mother
plant for this area, a 100 x 100 cm. spacing
should be used.
South
African National
Biodiversity
Institute,
Africa.
Copyright
2004, Iziko
Museums
ofSouth
Cape
Town
Website: http://www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/erythrinahumeana.htm
Within six to nine months after planting, each mother plant can give up to 25 cuttings. At
a success rate of 50%, the farmer will have plants in 16 cm. pots ready for sale in four to
six months. Each plant can be sold for 2.00 JD (US$ 2.82). The initial cost is 6.00 JD
(US$ 8.47)/mother plant, see Table 1.
Hibiscus syriacus
The Hibiscus syriacus is an evergreen flowering shrub or small
tree in Aqaba and the Jordan valley. Even though these plants
are of tropical origin, they have been successfully introduced in
Amman and the colder areas of Jordan. A close relative to H.
syriacus is H. rosa-sinensis, which also grows well in both
climates of Jordan (mountainous and subtropical areas). The
following characteristics and propagation factors are for both
types of plants, with a recommended spacing of 100 x 100 cm.
One mother plant can provide 25 cuttings twice a year, starting
only three months after planting the mother stock. With a
rooting success of 70%, and three months of growth time in 16
cm. pots, each new plant could be sold for 0.40 JD (US$ 0.57).
Hibiscus syriacus
H. rosa-sinensis
7
Table 1. Estimated investment returns from plants in the Karama location.
Plant name
Agapanthus
africanus/orientalis
Erythrina humeana
Hibiscus syriacus
Lantana
montivedensis
Pennisetum setaceum
‘rubrum’
Sterlitzia reginea
Verbena peruviana
Initial
qty
Unit Initial
Cost Expense
Offsets
per year
Exp.
Total
Expected Actual Total
Success Offsets Offsets Selling gross
output output price revenue
rate
200
100
100
5
6
1
1,000
600
100
3
25
50
100%
50%
70%
3
12.5
35
600
1,250
3,500
1.50
2.00
0.40
900
2,500
1,400
150
2.5
375
60
80%
48
7,200
0.50
3,600
4
200
200
3
200 0.35
800
600
70
3,545
6
5
100
90%
100%
90%
5.4
5
90
1,080
1,000
18,000
32,630
1.50
1.00
0.15
1,620
1,000
2,700
13,720
10,175
Return
Lantana montevidensis
The Lantana montevidensis is a hardy semi
deciduous shrub, can reach up to 40 cm. high and
wide in hot areas of Jordan; a drought tolerant
ground cover that comes in lilac, yellow or white
color flowers. The flowering period is from May
to September in the cooler areas of Jordan
(Amman and other similar locations); performs
extremely well in the Jordan Valley and Aqaba
climate zones, the recommended spacing is 50 x
50 cm.
A fully-grown mature mother plant can provide a minimum of 20 un-rooted cuttings each
time, with harvesting potential of three times a year. The success rate for the rooting
process is about 80% over the period of one year, which is translated into 48 plants as the
final output of each mother plant per year. The cost of each mature mother plant is
approximately 2.50 JD (US$ 3.53); the selling price of the finished product, in 16 cm.
size pots, is a minimum of 0.50 JD (US$ 0.71).
Assuming a start with a 100 plants for the mother stock at a cost of 250.00 JD (US$
353.11), the return on this initial investment should be 2,400.00 JD (US$ 3,389.83) after a
period of 12 to 15 months, Table 1.
Pennisetum setaceum ‘rubrum'
The Pennisetum setaceum ‘rubrum' grows as
fountain like mounds (fountain grass), it is a
purple colored grass that grows up to 1 meter high
in less than six months. It develops as an annual
in colder areas of Jordan, and an evergreen shrub
in the Jordan Valley. This fact makes it an
Ohio State University. http://plantfacts.osu.edu/Plant/Action.Lasso
attractive plant to produce since new plants sold
to gardens in Amman will need to be replanted every year; the recommended spacing is
75 x 75 cm.
8
The initial cost per plant is 4.00 JD (US$ 5.65); the output is an average of 6 to 8 offsets
per year and a success rate of 90%. The offsets will grow to a sellable plant in 18-cm.
containers, within 4 to 6 months. The final product can be sold for 1.50 JD (US$ 2.12),
Table 1.
Strelitzia reginea
The Strelitzia reginea is an evergreen shrub with
very exotic looking flowers, which justifies the
name Bird of Paradise. It is drought tolerant and
easy to propagate, with a good resale value and
adaptability to grow well in mountainous areas
as well as subtropical regions, the spacing is 75
x 75 cm.
Each plant can provide a minimum of two young offsets starting only two months after
planting. The second harvesting time can be as early as six months later with a minimum
of three offsets per mother plant; therefore a total of five plants can be expected for each
mother stock. The offsets will be ready only three months after harvesting, plants in 16
cm. pots can be sold for 1.00 JD (US$ 1.41), Table 1.
Verbena peruviana
The Verbena peruviana is a perennial evergreen
ground cover that bears clusters of pink flowers
almost all year round, especially if hot weather
prevails (Aqaba and the Dead Sea area). Fast
growing into 50 x 50 cm. in less than one year,
and easily propagated during almost any time of
the year; these characteristics make it an attractive
plant to produce even though the selling price is
not relatively low (50 x 50 cm. spacing).
Each mother plant can give up to 25 cuttings after less than six months of planting with
harvesting done twice a year. In other words the output is 50 cuttings each year. Less
than three months after harvesting finished plants are ready to be sold for a price of at
least 0.15 JD per plant. The initial cost is 0.35 JD while the success rate is 90% (see
Table 1).
Table 2, shows the comparison in investment in the mother stocks between year one and
year two. The farmers will not have to re-invest in the same mother plants to continue the
operation. Therefore the margin of profit in year two will be significantly higher. The
same applies to all three locations. Economic feasibility and sensibility analyzes are
shown in a separate section in this report.
9
Table 2. Estimated costs and return (Jordanian Dinars) with zero investment in mother
plants for the second year, Karama location.
Initial Unit
Initial Offsets
Plant name qty Cost Expense per year
Agapanthus
africanus/orientalis
200
0
0
3
Expected
Success
rate
Actual
Offsets
output
Total
Exp.
Offsets Selling
output price
Total
gross
revenue
100%
3
600
1.50
900.00
Erythrina sp.
100
0
0
25
50%
12.5
1,250
2.00
2,500.00
Hibiscus syriacus
Lantana
montivedensis
Pennisetum
setaceum ‘rubrum’
100
0
0
50
70%
35
3,500
0.40
1,400.00
150
0
0
60
80%
48
7,200
0.50
3,600.00
200
0
0
6
90%
5.4
1,080
1.50
1,620.00
Sterlitzia reginea
200
0
0
5
100%
5
1,000
1.00
1,000.00
Verbena peruviana
200
0
0
100
90%
90
18,000
0.15
2,700.00
Return
13,720.00
0
32,630
13,720.00
Structural costs – shade house
The most practical and cost effective shade house structure that can be used is the metal
frame of the classical single tunnel greenhouses available every where in Jordan. Farmers
can even use one or more of their own greenhouses and replace the plastic sheets with
shading net that can be bought in the local market. However, the cost for a good second hand
greenhouse frame is an average of 750.00 JD (US$ 1,059.32). The required shading area is
approximately 700 square meters, the cost for the net is about 595.00 JD (US$ 840.40). The
surface in this shade house area should be covered with gravel for practicality of operations
and sanitary and weed control purposes.
Young plants and rooted cuttings are placed under the shade structure for a period ranging
from one to three months at the most (some exceptions do apply). Then plants are either sold
or moved to the open field for the final stage of growth. A shade house with an area of 500
square meters can take 11,250 9-cm. pots and 8,000 16-cm. pots. Depending on the time of
use and the type of plant, one can accordingly manipulate these numbers to fit the particular
needs.
Mother plants stock
The number of the mother plants used for each production unit will determine the production
capacity. Guidelines for the spacing of the initial plants are presented in Table 3. However,
adjustments could be made once the operation is running and the farmers have acquired
experience.
10
Table 3. Recommended initial mother plants stock quantities and spacing, Karama.
Plant name
Agapanthus africanus/orientalis
Erythrina sp.
Hibiscus syriacus
Lantana montivedensis
Pennisetum setaceum ‘rubrum’
Strelitzia reginea
Verbena peruviana
Total area needed for mother plant stock
Initial qty Spacing (cm.) Area needed m2
200
50 x 50
50.0
100
100 x 100
100
100
100 x 100
100
150
50 x 50
37.5
200
75 x 75
112.5
200
75 x 75
112.5
200
50 x 50
50.0
1150
562.5
Water requirements
Table 4 gives guidelines for watering plants for the Karama site. This regime has been
established according to literature research and the consultant’s experience with some of the
plants.
Table 4. Watering regime recommendations, 1st and subsequent years, Karama.
Watering
frequency 1st year
Plant name
Agapanthus
africanus/orientalis
Erythrina sp.
Hibiscus syriacus
Lantana montevidensis
Pennisetum setaceum
‘rubrum’
Strelitzia reginea
Verbena peruviana
Quantity, liters
/ application
Winters if no
rain
Years after
Every third day
20
Once weekly
Once a week
Every other day
Every other day
Every other day
20
20
10
Skip once
Skip once
Skip once
Once a week
Twice a month
Twice a month
Every other day
Every other day
Every other day
10
20
10
Skip once
Skip once
Skip once
Twice a month
Once a week
Once a week
Financial Analysis of the Karama site
Table 5 results show that the project is highly feasible, since the IRR of the basic scenario is
about 216.4%, while this rate dropped to 46% in the case of an increase in costs of about 30%
which is still high; details are shown in Appendix 1.
Table 5. Results of the Analysis in Karama
Basic Scenario
Discount Rate (12%)
Coefficient
NPV
B/C Ratio
IRR
15,875
1.47
216.4%
Sensitivity Analysis
Increasing costs by10%
Increase Costs by 20%:
Increase Costs by 30%:
IRR
123.1%
76%
46.0%
Decrease in Total Returns by10%
Decrease in Total Returns 20%
116.4%
59.5%
11
Amman Zarqa Basin Kherbit Al-Samra
This location is characterized by being representative of the main weather pattern of the
populated hilly areas of Jordan. A large portion of the agricultural sector is present in climate
zones similar to this area; with a few exceptions (this location is closer to the desert than most
other arable lands of Jordan). Even though that the weather pattern is more defined in this
zone, it is also characterized by longer summer months. The Average temperature in summer
is 32°C, reaching highs as much as 38°C in some days of the year. Winter is characterized by
having cold days with colder nights. Frost is to be expected during some winter days in
addition to radiation frost in the spring. Rainfall occurs mainly in January and February with
some scattered rain during the months of December and March. There is more flexibility in
terms of the weather and what can be adaptable in this zone; however, the main setback is the
strong dry winds during many days of spring and summer.
Iris Nigricans (Black Iris)
The Black iris is a difficult to acquire popular plant and
prized item to any garden in Jordan. The national flower
of Jordan blooms into a dark maroon to black color
flower in spring and for a short period of time (which is
where the name comes from). So far there is not an
established mother plants stock at any commercial
nursery in the country. This is why nursery owners, who
have this easy to propagate plant in their stock, price it
higher than it is really worth. This plant to succeed as a
mother plant needs to be planted in winter or spring and
Blooming Bulb
http://www.bloomingbulb.com
to grow for one year before it can be propagated. The
propagation process is a simple process of division and
acclimatization. However, the plants must complete the year cycle before it can be
successfully propagated; the recommended spacing is 30 x 30 cm.
Each mother plant can give 3 offsets after one year. The offsets will be ready for sale
after an acclimatization period of two months. The price range for these plants this year
was from 1.00 JD to 2.50 JD (US$ 1.41 – US$ 3.53). The pricing is highly dependant on
the laws of supply and demand at the time; however, for reference the study used the
lower end of the current selling price of 1.00 JD (US$ 1.41) and a purchase cost of
mother plants as 2.00 JD (US$ 2.82) as seen in Table 6.
Buddleia davidii
The Buddleia davidii is a deciduous shrub that grows up to
two meters. It is Drought tolerant and easy to grow with
striking purple flowers in summer. This plant is becoming
increasingly popular among garden owners (100 ×100cm.
spacing).
Each mother plant can give at least 50 cuttings only three
months after planting and a rooting success rate of 70%.
Four to five months later, the finished product can be sold for 0.50 JD (US$ 0.71), the
initial cost for mother plants is about 2.50 JD (US$ 3.53) as in Table 6.
12
Cistuss sp.
The Cistuss is another native plant of Jordan,
which is completely ignored by local growers
and landscapers, yet extremely popular in
Europe and other countries. This evergreen
shrub is drought tolerant and easy to grow
gives a show of pink red or white flowers
starting in late spring until late summer
(depending on variety); the spacing is 50 x 50
cm.
Each mother plant can give up to 25 cuttings, has a success rate of 70 %. Plants are ready
for sale in 16 cm. pots at a market value of 1.00 JD (US$ 1.41) four to five months after
propagation (see Table 6).
Table 6. Estimated initial investment returns (in Jordanian Dinars) from plants in the
Kherbit Al-Samra location.
Unit Initial
Cost Expense
2 1,000.00
Offsets
per
year
3
Expected Actual
Total
Success Offsets Offsets
rate
output output
100%
3
1,500
Exp.
Total
Selling
gross
price
revenue
1.0 1,500.00
Plant name
Black iris
Initial
qty
500
Buddleia davidii
100
25
250.00
50
70%
35
3,500
0.5
1,750.00
Cistus sp.
150
5
750.00
20
70%
14
2,100
1
2,100.00
Hermerocalis sp.
300
25
750.00
4
100%
4
1,200
1
1,200.00
Phlomis sp.
100
4
400.00
20
60%
12
1,200
1
1,200.00
Vitex ungus castus
100
5
500.00
50
75%
37.5
3,750
1
3,900.000
13,250
3,750.00
11,500.00
Return
7,600.00
Hemerocalis sp.
The Hemerocalis is a drought tolerant,
hardy perennial that is becoming
increasingly popular in Jordan to say the
least. Once garden owners see the
flowers it becomes a must have in their
gardens. Its soft grassy type leaves and
large lily type flowers add brightness and
softness to any landscape during the long
summer months, the recommended
spacing is 40 x 40 cm.
Similar to the black iris, it can only be propagated after completion the one-year/winter
cycle. Each mother plant can give an average of 4 offsets, which are or can be ready for
the market only three months after division. Each plant could be sold at 1.0 JD (US$
1.41) per plant in 9 cm. pots. The mother plant stock price is estimated at 2.50 JD (US$
3.53) as shown in Table 6.
13
Vitex ungus castus
The Vitex ungus castus a native plant of Jordan is little
known to growers and landscapers in this country;
however, it is popular in many countries of the world. This
ornamental is characterized as a large size bush or medium
tree, with blue flowers in summer makes it an attractive
addition to any garden. Additionally, it is drought tolerant
and easy to grow, the optimum spacing is 100 x 100 cm.
Each mother plant can give up to 50 cuttings every year in
less than nine months after planting, has a success rate of
75%, and a rooting and establishing period within the six
month after cutting. The selling price is estimated at 1.0 JD
(US$ 1.41). Stock mother plants can be purchased for less
than 5.0 JD (US$ 7.06), see Table 6.
Phlomis fruiticosa
The Phlomis fruiticosa is yet another native and drought
tolerant plant that is completely ignored by growers and
landscapers alike. Since 2004 began surfacing at some
nurseries in Jordan and in small quantities. It is an
evergreen shrub that blooms yellow flowers in late spring
till mid summer, recommended spacing 75 x 75 cm.
Each mother plant can give at least 20 cuttings per year, has
a success rate of 60%, and the new plants can be ready for
sale in four to six months. The selling price is estimated as
1.0 JD (US$ 1.41) per plant in a 16 cm. pot (see Table 6).
Mother plant stock
As in the previous unit the number of the mother plants, the space, and area needed for the
plants according to our recommendation is shown in Table 7.
Please note that these numbers are only recommendations to guide farmers while establishing
their projects. The total amount of the investment is actually the determining factor regarding
how many mother plants of each species to buy.
14
Table 7. Recommended initial mother plants stock quantities and spacing,
Kherbit Al-Samra.
Plant name
Black iris
Buddleia davidii
Cistuss sp.
Hemerocalis sp.
Phlomis fruiticosa
Vitex ungus castus
Total area needed for mother plant stock
Starting
qty
500
100
150
300
100
100
1,250
Area
Spacing (cm.) needed m2
30 x 30
45
100 x 100
100
50 x 50
37.5
40 x 40
48
75 x 75
56.25
100 x 100
100
463.75
Water requirements
Table 8 outlines the recommendations on the watering regime for plants in Kherbit Al-Samra
site. These guidelines have been established according to literature research and the
consultants’ experience some of the plants.
Table 8. Watering instructions for the Kherbit Al-Samra site.
Plant name
Black iris
Buddleia davidii
Cistuss sp.
Watering
frequency
every third day
every third day
every third day
Quantity, liters
/ application
20
20
20
Winter
compensation
once a week
once a week
once a week
Hemerocalis sp.
Phlomis fruticosa
Vitex ungus castus
every third day
every third day
every third day
20
20
20
once a week
once a week
once a week
Years after
Twice / month
Once / week
Once a week
Once or twice
a week
Once a week
Twice / month
Financial Analysis of Kherbit Al-Samra site
The results in Table 9 show that under the current conditions the project is feasible, since the
IRR of the basic scenario is about 135.6%, while this rate dropped to 54% in the case of an
increase in costs of about 30% which is still high, details of the analysis in Appendix 1.
Table 9. Results of the Analysis for Kherbit Al-Samra
Basic Scenario
Discount Rate (12%)
Coefficient
NPV
B/C Ratio
IRR
15,563
1.66
135.6%
Sensitivity Analysis
Increasing costs by10%
Increase Costs by 20%:
Increase Costs by 30%:
IRR
98.1%
73%
54.0%
Decrease in Total Returns by10%
Decrease in Total Returns 20%
94.9%
62.7%
15
Ghor Al Safi
This location is characterized by extreme weather in the long hot summer days. Average
temperature in the summer is 42 °C during the day. Winter is practically non existent. In
fact, January and February are more like the spring of the mountainous areas of Jordan. Rain
is scarce to say the least; frost is not a factor to worry about. This climate creates a strong
limitation towards the choice of plants to consider for the area. Even though some species of
plants can be grown successfully, the economical application of a propagation unit becomes
too expensive to justify. Therefore, the consultants’ believe that the choice of plants should
be made only of those that can thrive in desert like conditions, which are the succulents and
cacti species.
Succulents and cacti are becoming increasingly popular by garden owners in Jordan. In
addition, some species have good export potential. Israel has become the largest exporter of
ornamental desert plants to many countries around the world, including Europe and the US.
All these plants and many others that belong to the cacti and succulent group are
characterized by their heat and drought tolerance. However, as mentioned before, this does
not mean that they can be used as mother plants if not watered sufficiently. It is true they do
tolerate abuse and drought, but when considered as mother plants they should be treated as
such. Their water requirement will be discussed in more details in a different section of this
study.
Regarding the propagation of these plants, take into consideration that these are slow growing
yet very easy to propagate. Therefore, the limiting factor for such project is time, and not the
propagation technique or the size of the mother plant or any other issue for the matter. Many
of these mother plants are not available in Jordan, and if exports are in the plan, then a closer
look into the choice of plant is needed. Furthermore the situation changes with respect to
mother stock plant size, when importing this is a factor of great importance. If farmers
choose to import young plants, grow them and then sell them, then the management of this
project is applied in a completely different way as compared to when farmers decide to
import bigger plants and propagate them.
This study, will describe the propagation details for some plants that are available in Jordan
and have economical value. However, details regarding their feasibility will not be given
since not enough information is available. Creating a feasibility table for such plants could
be misleading. Prices change greatly every year and even during the seasons. A project of
these types of plants should be established mainly for exports. Some data (mainly from the
consultant’s experience) is given in each of the plants discussions that follows.
Agave sp.
The Agave is the only one species of plants that belong to
the genus Agave. The popular varieties Agave attenuata
and Agave americana variegara are among those that have
been used extensively in areas of no water or areas that
have extreme weather. Several years after planting the
original mother plant dies leaving behind hundreds of
offsets that can be ready for sale within three months.
However a three years old plant can produce up to 10
16
offsets which are easily transferred into pots and sold after three months, the
recommended spacing is 100 x 100. A medium size plant can be bought for about
5.00 JD (US$ 7.06), a year later offsets could be sold for 0.50 JD (US$ 0.71).
However, if growers choose to keep the plants and grow them for one more year the
price of the finished plant then more than doubles.
Many plant species that belong to succulents and cacti group are not found in Jordan; in
addition, there is little knowledge by growers and nursery owners about how to handle
these species. New plant species and varieties should be introduced and expert guidance
should follow; this project should be given priority and careful attention. If established
right, it can be good money making project and can increase the farmable land by a good
margin, in addition to increasing the employment rate in the nearby villages.
Aloe sp.
Aloe vera is probably the most popular plant in this large
group of plants of the family Liliaceae. It is commonly
used in dry or desert landscape. The flowering takes place
in winter, when very few plants give flowers. Most spices
have small and thick spines, highly succulent leaves; many
spices have medicinal properties. The aloes are
characterized for drought and heat tolerance; however, are
susceptible to severe frost.
Echeveria sp.
The Echeveria species are low growing glaucus
sculptural plants, with simple yet attractive flowers in
winter; the recommended spacing is 30 x 30 cm. It is
becoming increasingly popular with landscapers in
Jordan and at the same time increasingly scarce. This
is due to the fact that they are considered stingy plants
in terms of propagation. Each plant can give 4 offsets,
but only after one year of planting as a mother plant.
Harvesting takes place once a year and the offsets can
Flowers & Plants Association, UK
be sold two to three months later. The market value
http://www.flowers.org.uk/about/contact-us.htm
for mother plants can reach up to 4 JD (US$ 5.65); the
resale value for the young plant is about 0.75 JD (US$ 1.06). This is why nursery
growers tend to avoid dealing with this plant.
Crassula sp.
The Crassula is a small sculptural shrub with insignificant flowers. Its thick leathery
leaves and thick stem, when mature, makes it a necessary addition to any sculptural or
desert garden, the spacing is 50 x 50 cm. Even though they are easy to propagate, the
retail price is still relatively high. A mature plant in an 18 cm. pot can be bought for 2.5
JD (US$ 3.53). The mother plant produces 20 cuttings per year, which could be sold in 16
cm. pots by growers for 1.00 JD (US$ 1.41).
17
Sedum spectabillis
The Sedum spectabillis is a perennial succulent that flowers in early to mid summer. It is
used greatly by landscapers to give texture contrasts with other plants, or simply it can be
a wonderful addition to any Mediterranean or rock garden, recommended spacing 30 x 30
cm. It is easily propagated by cuttings in late fall or spring, and can be sold in 9 cm. pots
only two months later. The market value for the mother plants is 2.25 JD (US$ 3.18), and
the selling price of offsets in 9 cm. pots is 0.5 JD (US$ 0.71). Each mature mother plant
can supply at least 10 cuttings each year with a success rate of 90%.
Water requirements
While no agricultural project can succeed without the availability of water., it is clear to most
experts that farmers (in the ornamental field) and garden owners, tend to irrigate excessively
and at the wrong times. If the water issue is managed correctly, farmers can save a good
amount of water each year in addition to saving on an expense that consumes a good portion
of their investment. Therefore I will need to explain four concepts that are related to
irrigation which can help whoever is interested learning and guiding farmers on how to save
water:
•
Drought tolerance: each plant has within it the ability to adjust its growth and
survival according to the amount of water around it. This does not mean however,
that plants can survive with half the amount of water it needs. There is a
minimum amount of water each plant species needs no mater how drought tolerant
it is. Yet, in order to figure out this amount farmers have to observe and adjust
their watering routine accordingly. There is a certain guideline that farmers
should follow (which I will explain) in order to understand how tolerant their
plants are. Farmers have to understand that more water doesn’t necessarily mean
better growth.
•
Acclimatization: this concept means that people who grow plants should be in
control and not the other way around. In other words, farmers can teach, and
sometimes force plants, to perform as good under conditions that are different
than what is ideal (in terms of water and climate).
•
Arid planting: the philosophy of arid planting (arid landscape) is to understand
the exact environmental conditions in any area that needs to be planted (any dry
and hot areas) and to now exactly what works there and how. The plant selection
is of great importance if one chooses to plant in arid areas. Farmers need to know
the environmental condition of their location and to select the right plants for it.
Drought tolerance and acclimatization are important elements of arid planting.
•
Establishment: the plants must be properly established in the field in order to be
certain that they are acclimatized to the concept of arid planting, which means that
the plants have actually been through a few heat waves without being negatively
affected.
18
Taking these four factors into consideration, the grower should understand that even though
there is a good deal of flexibility in dealing with plants, there are also limitations. The time
of planting is critical for each plant if this concept of farming is considered; in addition,
careful observation is a must. Farmers can easily loose their mother plants or they will find
difficult to achieve this concept if they do not read the vital signs of the plants. A strict
schedule of irrigation should be applied once plants are established under the concept of arid
planting.
Table 10 lists the plants in this section and their estimated water requirement for the first year
and subsequent years, once they are established as mother plants in the field. However, the
subsequent year’s regime is only to be implemented if and only if these plants have been
established. Any attempt to treat non-established plants as such will end up in major
setbacks.
Table 10. Watering regime recommendations, 1st and subsequent years, Ghor Al-Safi
Plant name
Agave sp.
Aloe sp.
Echeveria sp.
Crassula sp.
Sedum spectabillis
Watering
frequency 1st
year
3 times / week
3 times / week
3 times / week
3 times / week
3 times / week
Quantity, liters
/ application
10
5
5
5
5
Winter
compensation
-
Years after
Twice a month
Once/week
Once/week
Once/week
Twice / week
In conclusion, farmers will start getting the feel of producing ornamental plants; they will be
able to make a better judgment regarding how to expand their mother stock plants, in quantity
or variety. Again, with the proper expert guidance expanding the project is easily achieved.
More drought tolerant plants can be introduced and a better evaluation of market at the time
can help farmers to make proper adjustments. Reinvesting in new varieties or expanding
their stock using their own production can also be an option.
Marketing Potential
Information presented in this study with respect to markets and marketing of the plants, is
based upon the consultant’s personal experience and knowledge from managing our private
company doing our own contacts and research. No official information regarding this issue,
neither at the Ministry of Agriculture nor at any European agency for the matter (as far as we
know). However, we are currently working in cooperation with EJADA in order to find out
more about the export potential regarding these ornamental plants; once we have any
additional information our company will be happy to share it with you.
The potential market for these plants, locally there is an increasing demand for all the plants
listed in the study; in fact, besides the drought tolerance characteristic, the demand was a
strong factor in the selection for the study. However, the interested farmers / nursery owners
need to take in account that the ornamental plants market is extremely dynamic; changes do
occur every season. Therefore, each producer has to always monitor the market and adjust
production accordingly. Nevertheless, since most of these plants are recent introductions to
the landscaping business, it can comfortably be assured that demands will most likely
increase.
19
The demand in international markets including the CCG and Arabic countries is probably
better as an example: our contacts with nursery owners in Dubai clearly show that there is a
good potential for these plants. In fact our company is already negotiating with one nursery
for a shipment of plants to be delivered in the near future. The Iraqi market has a lot of
potential; however, security concerns at the present time prevent most business to interact
with potential buyers.
The European market is a market that needs to be studied more (which our company is doing
with EJADA as mentioned before). There is a strong potential for exporting plants to
Germany, Italy and Holland among other EU countries (see Table 11). Initial contacts have
been made nurseries in Italy and plans have been made for visits this summer to explore the
potential for cooperation agreements. In addition, contacts were made with some German
nursery owners during our visit in January, 2004 to the Essen Agricultural Show. The show
is one of the most important events for this business in Europe. Plans have also been made
for visits to Holland in November, 2004 to the JTV plant and flower exhibition.
Table 11. Marketing potential.
Plant name
Agapanthus africanus/orientalis
Erythrina sp.
Hibiscus syriacus
Lantana montevidensis
Pennisetum setaceum ‘rubrum’
Strelitzia reginea
Verbena peruviana
Black iris
Buddleia davidii
Cistus sp.
Hermerocalis sp.
Phlomis sp.
Vitex ungus castus
Agave sp.
Aloe sp.
Echeveria sp.
Crassula sp.
Sedum spectabillis
Local
market
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
CCG / Arab
countries
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Other
Intl. markets
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
There are several suppliers of these types of plants in the local market (list below); however,
these operations are to a small scale, if exports are being sought, technical support is highly
recommended. Please note however that there is no guarantee that these nurseries can sell
these plants through out the year, all depends on production and demand.
A list of some nurseries that produce the plants mentioned in the study follows:
•
•
•
•
X-Plant Nursery
Al Shami Nursery
Tayma Nursery
Al Waha Nursery
20
•
•
•
Dakkak Nursery
Al Sawsan Nursery
Al sabe’e Nursery
There are also two new nurseries that are being established by WEPIA and run by societies
for women who are planning to produce some of these plants.
21
Appendix 1: Details of the financial and sensitivity analysis for the Karama site.
Cost
Sensitivity Analysis
Capital Costs
Operational Costs
Cost increase by
Returns decrease by
2
Year
3
4
5
1800
60
3918
850
100
100
6828
6828
13720
6892
6209.2
5526.4
4843.6
5520
4148
1800
60
3918
850
100
100
6828
6828
13720
6892
6209.2
5526.4
4843.6
5520
4148
1800
60
3918
850
100
100
6828
6828
13720
6892
6209.2
5526.4
4843.6
5520
4148
1800
60
3918
850
100
100
6828
6828
13720
6892
6209.2
5526.4
4843.6
5520
4148
Item
Shade House
Storage unit
Propagation House
Working Area
Mother Plant Stock
Irrigation System
Manure
Total C.C
labor
Water
Pots
Peat moss
pesticides & hormones
Fertilizers
Total O.C
Total C.
Total Return
Cash flow
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.1
0.2
1
1350
2000
1350
1000
3545
500
300
10045
1800
60
3918
850
100
100
6828
16873
13720
-3153
-4840.3
-6527.6
-8214.9
-4525
-5897
NPV
B/C Ratio
IRR
1.472732
2.164045
1.231036
0.75798
0.459763
1.164292
0.594621
8968.75
22
24613.41
33582.16
49457.53
15875.37
12517.15
9158.935
5800.719
10929.61
5983.862
Appendix 2. Analysis of Khirbet Al-Samra site.
Cost
Sensitivity analysis
Capital Costs
Operational Costs
Cost increase by
Returns decrease by
Year
Item
Shade House
Storage unit
Propagation House
Working Area
Mother Plant Stock
Irrigation System
Manure
Total C.C
labor
Water
Pots
Peat moss
pesticides & hormones
Fertilizers
Total O.C
Total C.
Total Return
Cash flow
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.1
0.2
1
1350
2000
1350
1000
3650
500
300
10150
1800
60
1590
350
100
100
4000
14150
8800
-5350
-6765
-8180
-9595
-6230
-7110
2
3
4
5
1800
60
1590
350
100
100
4000
4000
11500
7500
7100
6700
6300
6350
5200
1800
60
1590
350
100
100
4000
4000
11500
7500
7100
6700
6300
6350
5200
1800
60
1590
350
100
100
4000
4000
11500
7500
7100
6700
6300
6350
5200
1800
60
1590
350
100
100
4000
4000
11500
7500
7100
6700
6300
6350
5200
NPV
(At 12%)
B/C Ratio
(At 12%)
IRR
9062.5
23
14419.1
23481.6
39044.21
15562.61
13214.45
10866.29
8518.126
11658.19
7753.765
1.662757
1.356401
0.981431
0.726992
0.53979
0.94856
0.62699
U.S. Agency for International Development
Office of Water Resources and Environment
American Embassy, Abdoun
Amman 11118, Jordan
Tel: (962) 6-591-0101
Fax: (962) 6-592-0143
www.usaid.gov