portulacariaportulacaria
genusgenusSmall-leaved succulent shrubs native to South African regions, characterized by their woody stems and round, fleshy leaves arranged in opposite pairs. These drought-tolerant plants can develop thick trunks and branch extensively, creating an elegant architectural form.
Etymology
The name combines 'Portulaca' (derived from Latin 'portula' meaning 'little door', referring to how the seed capsule opens) with the suffix '-aria', meaning 'connected to' or 'associated with'.
Interesting fact!
These remarkable plants can store carbon dioxide at night and process it during the day, making them exceptionally efficient at surviving in arid conditions.
