South Africa – September 29, 2002

Sunday 29 September: Port Elizabeth – Coega – over Alexandria to Ghio Bridge – Kariega River – Charlwood – Bathurst – Bloukrans – Grahamstown

Just outside of Port Elizabeth is Motherwell where the miniture Aloe bowiea (syn: Chamaeloe bowiea) is ever more threatened by urban sprawl. This plant is considered endanged due to its limited range and habitat distruction. Development of a new ocean port at Coega is likely to disrupt ever more of this unique area. Also in the area of flat lands and scrub brush are a number of medusoid Euphorbias that Gerhard is fond of (Euphorbia meloformis, E. gorgonis, E. stellata, E. globosa, E. clava, E. ledienii, E. polygona), and also some Gasteria bicolor, and several species of Aloe.  S 33’46”, E025’36”

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Near by we found Haworthia arachnoidea var. xiphiophylla growing in large numbers. S33’45”, E025’36”

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Notice the Gasteria.

At Kariega River Horseshoe we found large clumps of Hawortha cymbiformis and Haworthia coartctata growing right along side of the road. The cymbiformis growing on the cliff face seem to get a lot of wind coming up from the river valley. S33’36”, E026’37”

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Euphorbia tree forest

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At Charlwood, west of Kasouga Crossing, near Port Alfred we made a visit with the mysterious and hairy Haworthia cooperi var. venusta. As far as I know this and another population near by are the only locations for this variety. With all of the people who know it’s whereabouts I hope it doesn’t get collected out. At Bloukrans, north of Bathurst we took a look at the very large growing Gasteria excelsa.

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Then to Meetings Waters and Bloukrans

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While in Grahamstown Gretchen and I stayed at a bed and breakfast on Henry Street, near the center of town and Rhodes University. The historic home and has been beautifully restored to its original English Settler style. The back gradens were very beautiful. Our hosts, with Pip and Nan Townshend were warm and made us feel very welcomed.

Grahamstown2
Arthur’s Seat
6 Henry Street, Grahamstown, 6139
Tel/Fax : 046 622 7516
Cell : 072 341 7027

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