Welwitschia
Quick Summary
Welwitschia mirabilis is a unique gymnosperm plant, the only member of the gnetophyte family Welwitschiaceae. It is found exclusively in the Namib Desert of southwestern Africa. This unusual plant has a deep taproot and a short, broad stem from which two permanent, straplike leaves grow throughout its life. These leaves can reach lengths of several meters but are kept trimmed by sand erosion and fraying. Some Welwitschia specimens are estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 years old. Reproduction occurs via cones, not flowers. Due to overcollection, the species is now protected and considered endangered by some sources.12
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lifeTemperature and desiccation…environments, such as the two-leaved Welwitschia of the Namib Desert, have evolved extensive root systems that absorb subsurface water from a great volume of adjacent soil.
Read More…environments, such as the two-leaved Welwitschia of the Namib Desert, have evolved extensive root systems that absorb subsurface water from a great volume of adjacent soil.
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plantGymnospermsWelwitschia, restricted to extreme deserts (less than 25 mm [1 inch] of rain per year) in a narrow belt about 1,000 km (600 miles) long in southwestern Africa, is an unusual plant composed of an enormous underground stem and a pair of long strap-shaped leaves…
Read MoreWelwitschia, restricted to extreme deserts (less than 25 mm [1 inch] of rain per year) in a narrow belt about 1,000 km (600 miles) long in southwestern Africa, is an unusual plant composed of an enormous underground stem and a pair of long strap-shaped leaves…
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