Dinteranthus microspermus subsp. puberulus

Dinteranthus microspermus subsp. puberulus is a plant of the Richtersveld and Namaqualand in the remote north-western reaches of the Northern Cape. A globular dwarf succulent member of the Aizoaceae family, its genus was named for Moritz Kurt Dinter (1868 to 1945), who made a significant contribution to the study of Namibian plants.

The six small plant species of this genus grow in a rather confined area. They are all found in the north-west of South Africa and the south of Namibia, on both sides of the Gariep, South Africas biggest river. The riverine habitat found in this area is very unlike what one will encounter at riversides to the north in tropical Africa.

The Richtersveld has a unique charm, appealing to those that have an eye for the desert. And not missing the irony of such a mighty river cutting through such a desolate place (Smith, et al, 1998).

(Also see the entries for this species in the Mesemb Album under Types.)