Bowiea volubilis subsp. volubilis leaves

Leaves of Bowiea volubilis subsp. volubilis are somewhat rare sightings, as they don’t last long on the branching stems. As a consequence, the photosynthesis largely happens in the green stems.

A long-stalked, pale green leaf, ovate with lobed base and rounded tip, is visible in the photo. It has a scalloped margin that is somewhat wavy; the leaf folds in along its midrib. Some lateral veins from the midrib branch near the margin, prominent on the lower surface.

While the stems are hairless, the leaf appearance suggests a velvety surface, not confirmed. Further up, at the tip of the same stem, at least two small new leaves are emerging, also looking as if they have a soft hairy covering (Pooley, 1998).