Fockea edulis

This is one of a couple of nice old specimens of Fockea edulis, an African caudiciform plant, that we have. We've really come to like these plants over the years.

Fockea edulis

In my opinion, Fockea edulis, is one of the best plants for creating a bonsai-like succulent planting. The form can  vary tremendously from plant to plant, with all them being of interest. Plus, and this is a big plus, it's easy to grow. What's more to like?

Fockea edulis flower

The science fiction flower for today is ... Fockea edulis!  The species name - edulis - means edible, but I'm not about to cook up some Fockea soup. Parts are poisonous and the parts which I understand were eaten by native peoples were cooked first, to deactivate the alkaloids in the latex.

But the flower is like it's from another galaxy. It's pollinated by fruit flies, so if you have a problem with fruit flies... Oh, and you need more than one plant if you want to get seeds; you need both a male and female as the flowers are dioecious. (Those science people have such wonderful words!)

Now, take a sniff! (Ignore that instruction if your computer isn't equipped with latest "odoromatic" gadget!) The flowers are sweet smelling. How else do you think they're going to attract those fruit flies? :)

Fockea edulis

Lynn-Marie took this photo; she calls it her bio sculpture. Close enough. Use your imagination.

Fockea edulis

This is one of our old Fockea edulis plants.


It appears that one of our pot hanging geckos has crawled up on top.... :)