Blepharis capensis stem-tip

The spines on the margins of Blepharis capensis leaves, especially those at the tips may be as daunting as seen here. The leaf tip attenuates into the spine, enhancing the appearance of the spine size and defensive capability; the lateral spines do the same but to lesser extent. The long spines at leaf tips do not grow on all leaves: some leaves further down below the flowers have more modest spines. Some soldiers used to carry long lances, others only swords.

When the corolla is still furled in the bud stage, the dark vein lines on its outer surface may be well displayed as in the photo (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; iSpot).