Monsonia multifidum showing fortitude

The fourteen Monsonia or bushmans candle species are all found in the western parts of South Africa and in Namibia, while one of them also grows further to the north in Angola.

Monsonia multifidum is endemic to the western Richtersveld and land north of the Gariep in southern Namibia. The plant’s distribution extends only a few kilometres away from the Gariep River. This arid habitat comprises sparsely vegetated, sandy areas exposed among rocks.

Although the distribution area is small and harsh, the plant is not considered threatened. People do not frequent these parts much yet (Williamson, 2010; www.plantzafrica.com).