BBC Knowledge April 2017

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Flowers blooming? In the desert? Yes! And it’s a regular phenomenon,

much like how birds fly south for winter.

On the west coast of South Africa lies Namaqualand, a 1000km stretch of

desert land, where nary a flower blooms.

Except during the months of August and September.

Known in South Africa as the Namaqualand Daisy Season, this spring

phenomenon is linked to the region’s predictable rainfall pattern. During

the winter months of May and July, the region receives its highest and

heaviest rainfall, and, come spring, every bit of the landscape, including

the rocky bits and hills, is covered in flowers, bursting out in eclectic

and vivid colours.

Through the rest of the year, seeds of wild flowers sit waiting in the soil

for the late winter rains. The blooming is largely dependent on the winds,

rain and the spring sun. Species of wildflowers found here are the yellow

sparaxis, purple geraniums, and snow protea, which are indigenous to

this region. The flowers are at their vibrant best during the day, attracting

visitors, human and insects, the former to see them and the latter to

pollinate them. At night, they seem to tuck their heads in, saving their

energy for another bright, sunny day.

Come see the flowers in the desert!

Visit http://www.southafrica.net for more information

BLOOMING IN THE

DESERT!

Marvel at how seasonal rain in Namaqualand,

South Africa, transforms the semi-arid region into

a carpet of flowers

PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.SA-VENUES.COM X

April 2017 17