Pelargonium crithmifolium belatedly inspiring medieval architects

Depending on the season, Pelargonium crithmifolium covers or reveals its thick stems in leaves and flowers. The dull yellow to olive green surfaces are mostly smooth but marked in many places by scars where the smaller branches (and some leaves) were abandoned in favour of fewer, taller towers.

The gradual building of a castle-like fortress of durable plant parts, upon which annual foliage and flowers can come and go, ensures balance between annual and long-term commitments.