SANBI

Star Spiderhead - Serruria stellata

The Star Spiderhead was only described in 1991 from near Wolfieskop and Jonaskop. Since then it has also be discovered by atlassers in the Stettynsberg. This is a creeping relative of the Blushing Bride (the Skirted group) of Spiderheads. Because of its habit it is easily overlooked, even when in flower. Near Jonaskop the stems form long trailing branches, bearing the flowers at their tips. At Wolfieskop the plants form dense green mats. Flowering is from August to November, but we do not have much data on this species - the few records we have suggests that it may flower all year round. New leaves also appear to be produced all year round. This is most unusual in Spiderheads - we would love more data on this species. Another interesting feature of the Star Spiderhead is that the flowers lack nectar glands. So how are they pollinated? What would visit empty flowers? You can help to solve these mysteries. - Join the Protea Atlas Project.

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