NUS Library
Explore our comprehensive catalogue of Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) cultivated across the Mediterranean basin within the VENUS project network.
Atriplex halimus
Saltbush
A highly salt-tolerant perennial shrub adapted to saline soils, drought, and nutrient-poor lands, valuable for forage and land rehabilitation in arid regions.
Crithmum maritimum
Sea Fennel
A perennial halophyte of the Apiaceae family that colonizes coastal cliffs and sandy dunes, valued as an emerging cash crop with high culinary and medicinal potential.
Opuntia ficus-indica
Cactus Pear
A highly drought-tolerant succulent species adapted to arid environments, providing multipurpose value through edible fruits, livestock fodder, and land rehabilitation.
Borago officinalis
Borage
An annual Mediterranean herb valued for its edible leaves and star-shaped flowers, and for seeds that are one of the richest natural sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).