Vanheerdea roodiae thick and thin pedicels

Thick pedicels, full of plant sap hold the Vanheerdea roodiae buds erect. Thin and dry, woody stick-like supports, previously recognised as flower pedicels, dutifully continue to hold the old fruit capsules erect until the seeds are dispersed.

A club-shaped bud’s inner parts also benefit from the temperature regulating thick sepals. The developing petals, stamens and styles are shielded inside until anthesis, when growth pushes from inside, conveying the readiness message of: We want to see!

A rock right next to the plant in picture and a sparse shrub on its other side are the trappings of wealth to be recognised for benefiting plants in this arid plant world. Privileged above the ordinary and provisioned for a good life come from value added by rock and bush, providers of shade and shelter against the onslaughts of hardship never far away in this barren land.

Should a few drops of rain and milder temperatures arrive, the plant’s pink complexion will return to the yellow green of easy days (Frandsen, 2017; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; Smith, et al, 1998; iNaturalist; https://llifle.com).