Delosperma basuticum

Delosperma basuticum is commonly known among local people as the Lesotho iNtelezi fig, because of its traditional use as a magic or charm plant. The iNtelezi medicines were (or are) administered in ritual context with symbolic meaning. They are used for prophylactic purposes, usually to counteract sorcery; not taken internally.

Plants belonging to this category are all said to have “sticky sap”, believed to ward off lightning. Such plants have then often been planted close to the home. Summer thunderstorms in Lesotho among the Maluti Mountains are often spectacular!

This photo was taken near Maseru in Lesotho during April. A dry and already opened seed capsule with its five locules can be seen in the photo.

Delosperma comes from the Greek delos (visible) and sperma (seed), referring to the absence in Delosperma species of covering membranes, commonly found over the seeds when capsules of other Aizoaceae plants open (Smith, et al, 1998; www.bioculturaldiversity.co.za).