Anticipation
I bought this stapeliad, Huernia volkartii at the succulent show last year in April but it has never flowered before. It always starts making flowers but then for one or another reason, they don't develop fully. I have been watching the latest developments with a touch of skepticism although this one is beyond bud stage and any day now, it will open. The stems are dark so this plant lends itself to black and white and everything looks better in black and white anyway. I like Heurnia flowers, they tend to be smaller, have interesting shapes and colours and can be less stinky than their larger, more spectacular cousins. I'll show it off just as soon as it opens.
Huernia volkartii is not native to South Africa, it is found in neighbouring countries to the North and this particular plant comes from Zimbabwe. It seems happy enough growing outside in my garden.
The shape of the stem is like a cactus, what is the flower that starts out I see the shape is very unique.
It's interesting. You get a feel for certain plants and seem to know intuitively what the problem is. I have no idea with it although I have seen humidity variations cause bud drop. I have had a jade tree for 48 years and it has bloomed only twice.
These are known for aborting their buds if they are moved. They seem to handle climate changes just fine, so long as they stay in one place. I have moved these plants location a few times
You know, one could wonder what evolutionary purpose that serves. On the other hand, how often are plants moved in nature? lol
Stapeliads are plants that are pollinated by flies. Perhaps they have some perception that tell them which conditions are most suitable for fly activity in a particular spot and flower accordingly
Maybe. Well, insects don't do so well when it's windy. Was it in a drafty spot?
No. They seem to like a particular alchemy of heat and sunlight before they flower
These combinations of heat/cold, photoperiod, and wet/dry, are just more reasons for plants to fascinate us.
They are fascinating. We also have large hunting spiders that come inside the house before it rains. They are more accurate at predicting the weather than technology
Unfortunately, not all beautiful flowers smell good. Vimo nature gave them such a property in the form of protection, so that they could survive.
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This is exciting! Can’t wait to see when it blossoms!!
Good luck and finger crossed!
Cheers.
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This is amazing view! Great angle and love the contrast! awesome photography skill. love your all work. love you friend.
Congratulations!!!
It is very interesting to see the photo of the flower!