Glottiphyllum regium leaves

The leaves of Glottiphyllum regium grow in decussate, opposite pairs, i.e. every pair is positioned at a right angle (in a horizontal plane) above the previous one on its branch.

Leaves vary in colour between deep green and red-brown, depending on the growth rate dictated by prevailing conditions. Leaf shape tends to be cylindrical with some inconspicuous angularity. Leaves taper to sharpish, erect tips; the leaf pairs are slightly in-curved. The leaves become about 10 cm long and 2 cm wide.

The plant is also called skilpadkos (tortoise food): easily reached by the passing tortoise, it should be a thirst quencher that is always welcome in the Little Karoo veld. It may also be nourishing to those with suitably adapted metabolism (Smith, et al, 1998; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; www.plantzafrica.com).