Abstract: The Calligonum L. is one of the most ecologically important resources in desert areas of China and is commonly used for dune fixation and afforestation. The Calligonum L. has a series of advantages, such as drought resistance, high temperature resistance, low soil fertility tolerance, wind erosion and sand burial resistance, easy propagation, strong adaptability, rapid growth, special adaptability to drought and shifting sand. The species distribution, propagation technique, chemical components, biological characteristics of stress resistance and ecological characteristics of the Calligonum L. were reviewed, so as to provide foundation for the study of Calligonum L. on desertification control, stress resistance mechanism and development of their genetic resources.