Hoodia currorii explained

Hoodia currorii is a succulent plant native to Namibia and the Cape Province of South Africa. It grows in desert areas and is common along the road from Karibib to Swakopmund in Namibia. It is also known as ghaap in the vernacular.[1]

Description

Hoodia currorii grows in erect clumps with gray-green stems, 8 centimeters in diameter.[2] It reaches heights of 50 to 80 centimeters tall. It bears rust-red flowers mid-summer[3] which are covered in purple hairs. These are large flowers, about five to ten centimeters in diameter.[4]

Cultivation

Hoodia currorii is more commonly seen cultivated than other Hoodia species. It can be grown from cuttings.

Uses

Hoodia currorii may be eaten after the spines are removed and is said to have a sweet flavor.

Notes and References

  1. Book: Plant Resources of Africa 2: Vegetables. Backhuys Publishers. 2004. 9057821478. Wageningen, Netherlands. 329–331. Hoodia currorii.. 18 July 2015. Grubben. G.J.H.. O.A.. Denton.
  2. Book: Sajeva, Maurizio. Succulents II: The New Illustrated Dictionary. Timber Press. 2000. 9780881924497. Portland, Oregon. 159. Costanzo. Mariangela.
  3. Book: Anderson, Miles. The Complete Illustrated Guide to Growing Cacti & Succulents. Lorenz Books. 2008. 9780754818427. London. 175.
  4. Web site: Hoodia in Namibia. 18 July 2015. National Botanical Research Institute.