A New Eriospermum (Ruscaceae) From Northern Namaqualand, Richtersveld, South Africa

A new species of Eriospermum, named E. aridicola, has been identified in the arid mountains bordering the Orange River near Sendelingsdrif, South Africa. This discovery highlights its close relationship with E. namaquanum but distinguishes it through its unusually large leaf and unique habitat niche. The species appears to be endemic to this region, suggesting significant biodiversity within the UNESCO-listed Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape. The study employed detailed morphological analysis, including a line drawing, to characterize the new taxon. This finding contributes to our understanding of plant diversity in one of the world's most ecologically significant areas.

Williamson, G. (2013). A New Eriospermum (Ruscaceae) From Northern Namaqualand, Richtersveld, South Africa. Cactus and Succulent Journal, 85(1), 15–18. https://doi.org/10.2985/0007-9367-85.1.15