Jazan's Ghalif plant serves as a key culinary and cultural heritage element

The Ghalif plant (Cissus rotundifolia) is a prominent perennial climber in the Jazan region of southwestern Saudi Arabia. Thriving in warm, relatively humid environments, the plant grows on trees and rocks across both plains and mountains. It is characterized by fleshy, cylindrical stems reaching 5 to 10 meters in length and small, yellowish-green flowers.

Deeply embedded in the local culinary heritage, Ghalif is used to flavor traditional dishes such as Haneeth, where its leaves and branches are added to meat during cooking. It is also prepared by boiling and mashing the leaves with sesame oil and pepper, typically served with Tannour bread or Lahoh. Beyond food, local traditions include using the plant for traditional medicinal practices and cleaning silver artifacts, though experts note these should not replace modern medical treatments.