Written by: Sarah Braude
2024
During a recent guided Walk & Talk, the striking April Fool flower (Haemanthus coccineus) was spotted blooming in the Melkbos Pan. Also known as the March flower, April Fool flower, or Blood flower, it surprises with its bright, brush-like flowerheads emerging from underground bulbs late in summer. This species is listed on the Atlantic Beach Plant List to help preserve Strandveld biodiversity.
Petra Broddle from CREW led the walk, which also revealed many new sprouts post-fire. Thanks to the Blauuwberg Conservation Area for permitting the event. Notably, the April Fool flower was likely the first South African flower collected and illustrated in Europe by Flemish botanist de L'Obel in 1605.
Sources: SANBI
