Namibia’s Strange And Wonderful Plants

 Namibia's rich biodiversity boasts an astonishing array of plant life that extends from the dry expanses of the Namib Desert to the lush plains of its riverbeds and the rugged landscapes of its mountain ranges. A staggering number of these botanical wonders are endemic to the country, having evolved in the country's challenging climatic conditions. Among this botanical treasure, some of the most extraordinary and strange-looking plants can be discovered that are found only within the borders of Namibia.

The quiver tree is one of Namibia's most famous flora. The natives used to make quivers for their arrows by hollowing out the tubular branches of the tree. This is how the tree got its name.

The quiver tree is a succulent plant that has strange-looking leaves that resemble roots, making it appear as if the tree is upside down. According to local tradition, this tree brings good luck to anyone who worships and cares for it. It is also said that if someone digs up a tree, he will find diamonds where it grows. Thankfully, since these trees are blessed, no one wants to dig them up.

The quiver tree grows abundantly in southern Namibia. They have a whole grove near Keetmanshoop called Quiver Tree Forest, which is a center of tourist attraction. The forest has grown spontaneously, and the tallest quiver trees are two to three centuries old. This forest was declared a National Monument of Namibia in 1995.

Pachypodium namaquanum, also known as halfman's or elephant trunk, is another succulent plant native to southern Africa. The plant has a stem that grows up to 10 feet tall and a foot in diameter (similar to an elephant's foot), with a rosette of leaves at the top. The entire body is densely covered with sharp thorns.