Zygophyllum simplex

Zygophyllum simplex, in Afrikaans commonly known as volstruisdruiwe (ostrich grapes), brakspekbos (brackish blubber bush) and rankspekbos (creeping blubber bush), is a prostrate leaf succulent bearing soft, cream, yellow or reddish, branched stems that form thick mats.

The species distribution is mainly in the Northern Cape, spilling over a little into the Free State, the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape. It has a strong presence in Namibia and extends into Angola and further into Africa.

The habitat is flats in several soil types of arid areas mostly receiving winter rain. The plants usually cover exposed, sandy or gravelly patches of earth. The species is not considered to be threatened in its habitat early in the twenty first century.

A name change to Tetraena simplex may be in the offing, partly implemented, although not yet generally agreed to (Smith, et al, 2017; Le Roux, et al, 2005; Eliovson, 1990; iNaturalist; http://redlist.sanbi.org).