Braunsia apiculata leaves

Braunsia apiculata leaf pairs are fused in their lower halves, a feature of the genus that differentiates them from Lampranthus, a bigger and related mesemb genus.

The thickly succulent leaves are triangular in cross-section, the sharply angular leaf surfaces velvety and dull green with pale cartilaginous ridges on the angles.

Dark, sharp tips characterise the leaves of B. apiculata. The specific name was chosen to represent this feature: apiculata (Latin) means ending abruptly in a small, distinct point. These plants are rarely browsed (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; Smith, et al, 1998; www.cactus-art.biz).