Englerophytum magalismontanum

Englerophytum magalismontanum, the stamvrug in Afrikaans, is one of the delights of the veld in the northern parts of the country. Usually a small shrub that dutifully produces its red fruits in summer, clasped closely to the stems.

Don’t be surprised to find quite large stamvrug trees along some of the north-flowing streams in the Magaliesberg. On top of the mountain they can literally be of bonsai status in the harsh conditions among rocks in full sun and still yield lush new foliage in changing colours as in this picture.