Greening of Afghanistan

Shown is "Camel Thorn", or kharn in the Dari language. It grows wild and is green only in the spring. The local sheep and goats can survive on it, even when it appears brown and withered in the hot summer. The other picture is a thriving rose bush planted near the ANA clinic. There is a great deal of planting and gardening going on, including by the new recruits. We've even seen small plots of grass. These are watered by well water and seem to be doing well. I was also shown some low-growing vines and was told it is the national flower of Afghanistan; it's honeysuckel! Nice smell and sight that reminds me of home.