Veltheimia capensis winged fruits

The fruits of Veltheimia capensis grow in a dense cluster, covering the erect axis. They are three-winged capsules, in picture cream and pale pink, not dry yet.

The long, thin thread at each fruit-tip is what remains of the flower’s style. Some dry corolla tubes are also still present, soon to fall.

Every fruit contains two black, rounded to pear-shaped seeds with warty surfaces in a chamber where the membranous wings meet (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Manning, 2007; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; iNaturalist).