About Tetragonia fruticosa L.
Nomenclature and Endemic Status
Tetragonia fruticosa, commonly known as kinkelbossie, is a coastal perennial shrub or scrambling plant that is endemic to Namibia.
Habitat and Human/Livestock Use
It grows well in dune habitats and is often used for dune sand stabilization, and it is frequently browsed by livestock and wild game.
Elevation Range
This species can be found at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 1100 metres.
Fruit Characteristics
Its fruits have features that are unusual for the Aizoaceae family: they are four-winged, single-seeded, and indehiscent.
Fruit Wings and Seed Dispersal
The wings are initially green and succulent, and they dry out to become papery and brown, which helps the seed disperse via wind.
Floral Resource Value
The flowers of Tetragonia fruticosa are a rich source of pollen and nectar for honeybees.
