Despite the hot dry climate, 2075 species of plants in 758 genera are found in Egypt. Many of these are uniquely adapted to the climatic conditions. While some plants grow in "privileged" areas such as the Nile Valley, others have developed strategies for conserving water. Fleshy leaves are one such adaptation, some plants have a waxy coating on the leaves that reduces water loss, and many desert plants have long taproots that reach down to the water table.

   Most species have the ability to sprout, flower and set seed in a very short space of time when there is a little rain. The seeds can then lie in the sand, sometimes for years, until there is another rain and the cycle can begin again. The mist oasis of Gebel Elba sustains numerous plants including the dramatic Ombet Tree.

   The Sinai Peninsula has the greatest diversity of species, including 19 that are endemic to Egypt; many of the plants are of medicinal importance.

6 of 12 Colocynth or Bitter Melon, Citrullus colocynthus

A common plant of the desert, the Colocynth grows flat on the ground, the leaves are deeply lobed and the flowers are small, greenish yellow with five petals. The apple-sized fruits are yellow when ripe, striped with green when immature. The fruits are a powerful laxative and are used to treat rheumatism, jaundice, and scabies in camels.