Othonna lobata in bonsai tree form

Flaking occurs on the caudiciform stem of Othonna lobata. Its rich, pale brown colouring blends with the gravelly surroundings.

The leaves are here narrow and long, a distinct pair of rounded lateral lobes or more developed on most. Upper stems are soon rid of old leaves, leaving dense stem-tip clusters of the smooth, blue-green blades. The flaking has there not yet paled into the smoothness of large pieces that peel without encumbrances of recently departed leaves.

The plant prospers in August after rain on a gravelly Namaqualand slope (iNaturalist).