In the world of succulents and cacti, one particular plant stands out for its enchanting beauty and unique characteristics—the “Blue Smoke Cactus.” This mesmerizing botanical wonder, also known by its scientific name Senecio mandraliscae, captivates with its striking blue-gray foliage and wispy appearance, reminiscent of ethereal smoke swirling in the air. Native to South … [Read more...] about The “Blue Smoke Cactus”: A Mesmerizing Botanical Wonder
succulents
Succulent smuggling: why are South Africa’s rare desert plants vanishing?
Unique species in ‘the world’s most biodiverse desert’ are at risk from a warming planet and the lucrative plant poaching trade In May 2020, 10mm of rain fell at Sendelingsdrif Rest Camp in South Africa’s most north-westerly corner. After enduring nine years of almost zero rain, Pieter van Wyk, a 32-year-old self-taught botanist who heads up the Richtersveld national park’s … [Read more...] about Succulent smuggling: why are South Africa’s rare desert plants vanishing?