This is the first of a series of posts with information about a Threatened Plant that should be flowering in the Midlands right now. Information is supplied by CREW – Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers.
CREW is a programme that involves volunteers from the public in the monitoring and conservation of South Africa’s threatened plants. In doing so, CREW aims to capacitate a network of volunteers from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. The programme links volunteers with their local conservation agencies and particularly with local land stewardship initiatives to ensure the conservation of key sites for threatened plant species.
APOCYNACEAE Woodia verruculosa [Vulnerable]
Woodia verruculosa is a perennial herb. Found in mistbelt and Ngongoni Grassland. Midlands and southern Zululand. Mostly recorded between Howick and Eston.
- Stems 15-25 mm tall arising from a tuberous rootstock, falling seasonally, upright, simple, with milky latex.
- Leaves are broad, rough, 4-7 pairs.
- Corolla 3- lobed.
- Peduncles 200-500 mm long.
- Sepals longer than corolla. It is said to flower from October to December.
If you have seen this plant, please contact Suvarna Parbhoo, CREW programme: KZN Node Manager s.parbhoo@sanbi.org.za
If you are keen to join the Midlands CREW group, contact info@midlandsconservancies.org.za
- References: BROWN, N.E. 1907-1909. Asclepiadaceae. Flora Capensis 4.1:516
- Photographer: Alison Young
Midlands Conservancies Forum 