If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit the sandy coastal regions of South Africa, you may have come across a truly remarkable plant – the Brunsvigia orientalis. Commonly known as the “candelabra flower,” this stunning species has some fascinating characteristics that make it a standout in the plant kingdom. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Brunsvigia orientalis so special and why it deserves a place in the spotlight.
A Flowerhead Like No Other
The candelabra flower is easily recognizable for its extraordinary flowerhead, which can reach a massive 600mm in diameter! This “candelabra” shape is a true spectacle. The flowerhead consists of 20 to 80 large, tubular flowers that are typically red in color. These flowers emerge in late summer, around February to March, giving an impressive splash of colour when not many other plants are in bloom.
What makes the candelabra flower even more interesting is that it doesn’t have leaves when it first blooms. The huge flower stalk pushes up from the ground long before any leaves appear, creating a striking contrast. In fact, the leaves only emerge in May, after the flowerhead has dried and fallen off, allowing the plant to conserve moisture during the dry months.
Nature’s Wind-Borne Seed Dispersal
After the flowers have bloomed and faded, the ovaries enlarge and turn papery, while the flower stalk breaks off and the seed head is sent tumbling across the ground by the wind. This is where the plant’s Afrikaans name, “Perdespookbossie” (meaning “horse ghost bush”), comes from. The spherical seed heads, rolling along the ground, can spook horses, giving the plant a mysterious and otherworldly vibe.
Once the seeds are scattered, they begin to germinate almost immediately, taking advantage of the full rainy season to grow and establish themselves before the next dry period arrives. This rapid germination strategy gives the seedlings a head start, allowing them to develop the resilience needed to survive the harsh dry months when the plant retreats underground.
A Plant Well-Suited to Its Environment
Brunsvigia orientalis has adapted beautifully to the seasonal extremes of its coastal habitat. The plant is deciduous, meaning it loses all its above-ground parts during the summer, which helps it conserve moisture and energy. The bulb remains dormant underground, safe from the heat and drought. When the rainy season approaches, the plant springs to life with its impressive flowerhead, making a brief yet unforgettable appearance before returning to dormancy.
It’s also worth noting that the Brunsvigia orientalis is pollinated primarily by sunbirds. These birds feed on the nectar of the tubular flowers, and in the process help the plant to pollinate and continue its cycle. The mutual relationship between the plant and its pollinators highlights the delicate balance of nature in this region.
Conservation Status and Ecological Challenges
While Brunsvigia orientalis is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the Red List of South African Plants due to its stable population, it’s not without its challenges. Pests like the Lily borer, or Amaryllis worms, can pose a threat to the plant’s leaves. The invasive cotton grass also competes for resources, potentially threatening the plant’s survival in certain areas.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the plant’s conservation story is its erratic flowering behavior. For example, in one fynbos reserve, the number of blooms fluctuated dramatically between 2000 and 2013. While the population initially saw a decline due to pests, experts found that with enough rainfall, the numbers bounced back, showcasing the plant’s resilience and ability to regenerate when conditions are right.
A Misunderstood Name
Interestingly, the name Brunsvigia orientalis itself is a result of mistaken identity. The species epithet “orientalis” refers to the incorrect belief that the plant originated in the East, specifically India. In reality, this striking geophyte is entirely native to South Africa. Its name “Brunsvigia” honours the House of Brunswick, a nod to the plant’s history and its introduction to Europe in the 18th century.
Conclusion: A Flower That Never Fails to Impress
Brunsvigia orientalis is a plant that’s both beautiful and fascinating, with its dramatic flower displays and clever adaptations to survive in a tough environment. Whether it’s the stunning candelabra-shaped flowerheads, the wind-blown seed dispersal method, or the plant’s unique ability to thrive in coastal sand, Brunsvigia orientalis proves to be an unforgettable part of South Africa’s floral heritage.
So next time you find yourself in the coastal regions of the country, keep an eye out for this incredible plant. It’s a true marvel of nature that you won’t want to miss!
The Wine
The Lomond Candelabra Cabernet Sauvignon wine is named after this incredible plant. The registered Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard is established on decomposed gravel. Exceptionally low yielding vineyards, 4t per hectare, results in concentration and quality of fruit.
