Assessment of Heavy Metals Accumulation in Soil and Native Plants in an Industrial Environment, Saudi Arabia

Industrial activities are associated with various heavy metals (HMs) being emitted into the environment, which may pose a threat to humans and animals. The rapid increase in an industrial activity major cities Saudi Arabia (SA) has raised concerns regarding accumulation of HMs environment. aim this study is assess soil native plants We collected 36 surface samples 12 plant species from sites city central SA. results showed that content followed descending order (Fe > Ni Zn Pb Cu> Cr Cd). enrichment factor (EF) ranged 0.20 7336. Up 100%, 16.6%, 6.2% were extremely highly enriched Cd, Ni, Pb, respectively. Plant Cyperus laevigatus accumulate Ni. Citrullus colocynthis Cd significantly (p < 0.001) higher amounts than other studied species. Pollution Load Index (PLI) values for 0.52–1.33 S5 S2 PLI >1.0 indicating progressive deterioration these sites. Bioaccumulation Factor (BF) 0.04–2.76 revealed some be candidates phytoextraction potential. most promising remediation annuals or perennials such as Malva parviflora, Sisymbrium irio colocynthis, especially Cu. This suggests useful phytoremediation area.