Wooleya farinosa white on grey

Wooleya farinosa is a lesser-known mesemb because it lives where rather few people ever go. Southern and inland parts of Namaqualand get more visitors than the northerly coast where this species resides. And those that do come here and become fascinated, may be so overwhelmed by the wonders of the severe land that details of the sparse vegetation is remembered scantily, triggered again by photos, notes and the conversations in the moments of encountering the unlikely life forms.

The occasional big stand does not often make the restricted range plant common or well-known. Remoteness may keep them safe(r). For we know people habits and the often-seen lack of restraint when finding a novelty, or when occupying new terrain. The powerline in the background proves that many have seen these plants. It is less certain how many noticed them, or how many plants are already removed and sold.

There is no place for a plant or animal to hide on earth today, for climate change goes wherever people still do not reach (Cowling and Pierce, 1999; Smith, et al, 1998; iNaturalist).