Haemanthus pumilio
Haemanthus pumilio Jacq.
Haemanthus pumilio is a perennial flowering plant in the Amaryllidaceae family, native to the Western Cape of South Africa. It is part of the fynbos and Renosterveld ecosystems and is found in Stellenbosch. The species has experienced significant habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urban development, with two remaining subpopulations totaling approximately 2000 plants.
Description
Haemanthus pumilio is a geophyte in the genus Haemanthus, endemic to the Western Cape. The plant has lost 60% of its habitat over the past 90 years, with 20% of that loss occurring in the last 60 years. Threats to the species include illegal collection for horticultural purposes, uncontrolled fires, and damage from locusts and rodents. The species was first described by Jacq. in 1797.
Distribution
Cape Provinces
Synonyms
Melicho pumilio
