Gomphocarpus fruticosus upper branches

The sparse branching in the upper stem parts of Gomphocarpus fruticosus is typical of the species. Several colour changes occur up the slender stems in picture. Older bare stems lower down become brown or grey and rough. the younger one bearing leaves are creamy yellow and smooth. The young branches are covered in a thin layer of velvety hairs, mostly seen near stem-tips (Manning, 2009; Le Roux, et al, 2005; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; Vahrmeijer, 1981; iNaturalist; https://pza.sanbi.org).