Aloes and Lilies of Ethiopia and Eritrea

Aloes and Lilies 

of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

Sebsebe Demissew Inger Nordal

Aloes and Lilies 

of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

Sebsebe Demissew Inger Nordal 

Front cover: Aloe steudneri 

Back cover: Kniphofia foliosa

Contents 

Preface 4 

Acknowledgements 5 

Introduction 7 

Key to the families 40 

Aloaceae 42 

Asphodelaceae 110 

Anthericaceae 127 

Amaryllidaceae 162 

Hyacinthaceae 183 

Alliaceae 206 

Colchicaceae 210 

Iridaceae 223 

Hypoxidaceae 260 

Eriospermaceae 271 

Dracaenaceae 274 

Asparagaceae 289 

Dioscoreaceae 305 

Taccaceae 319 

Smilacaceae 321 

Velloziaceae 325 

List of botanical terms 330 

Literature 334

4 ALOES AND LILIES OF ETHIOPIA 

Preface 

The publication of a modern Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

is now completed. One of the major achievements of 

the Flora is having a complete account of all the Monocotyledons. 

These are found in Volumes 6 (1997 – all 

monocots except the grasses) and 7 (1995 – the grasses) 

of the Flora. One of the main aims of publishing the Flora 

of Ethiopia and Eritrea was to stimulate further research 

in the region. This challenge was taken by the authors 

(with important input also from Odd E. Stabbetorp) in 

2003 when the first edition of ‘Flowers of Ethiopia and 

Eritrea: Aloes and other Lilies’ was published (a book 

now out of print). The project was supported through 

the NUFU (Norwegian Council for Higher Education’s 

Programme for Development Research and Education) 

funded Project of the University of Oslo, Department 

of Biology, and Addis Ababa University, National 

Herbarium in the Biology Department. 

What you have at hand is a second updated version of 

‘Flowers of Ethiopia and Eritrea: Aloes and other Lilies’. 

In the preface to the 2003 version Sue Edwards and Inga 

Hedberg (coeditors together with Sebsebe Demissew) 

of Volume 6 of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea wrote: 

“We, therefore, welcome the publication of ‘Flowers of 

Ethiopia and Eritrea: Aloes and other Lilies’ and hope it 

will inspire other authors to produce similar books for 

different groups of plants. That in fact has happened with 

the publication of ‘Field guide to Ethiopian Orchids’ by 

Sebsebe Demissew, Phil Cribb and Finn Rasmussen, 

which appeared in 2004. These books are intended to 

be guides useful to a wider audience than professional 

botanists: students, teachers, conservationists, and 

amateurs interested in understanding and exploring parts 

of the flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

The two editions of ‘Aloes and other Lilies’ well 

illustrate the importance of the continued research in th 

Flora area. In the 6 years period from 1997 to 2003 for 

example two new endemic species of Aloe and two new 

endemic species of Chlorophytum were described. In the

PREFACE 

next 7 years period up to 2010, another six species of 

Aloe and one species of Chlorophytum were described – 

two genera where active research has taken place during 

the last decade. 

The book now contains 16 families (see further 

under “What is a lily?). We have also commented on the 

uses and conservation status of many of the groups. In 

addition to the introductory part (including vegetation 

description), this book gives descriptions and distribution 

maps for 200 species in 42 genera. Approximately 50% 

of the species are illustrated with photographs. 

Despite their attractive flowers, many of these species 

are poorly studied. As can be seen from the information 

on flowering periods, this is because these plants often 

flower at times of the year when little plant collecting is 

done, like the start of the rainy season and during the drier 

months of the year. The importance of having yearround 

observation and collection is emphasised. It is hoped that 

also this book will stimulate more people, particularly 

school teachers and professionals working with natural 

resource management, to make yearround observations 

of the plants growing in their areas. It is certain that more 

new lilies will be discovered in Ethiopia and Eritrea in 

the years to come, and we hope that this small book will 

stimulate interest in these botanical treasures. 

Acknowledgements 

The authors would like to acknowledge the support 

given by NUFU (Project 11/96 and 53/03) under the 

collaborative program between Addis Ababa University 

and the University of Oslo. We would like to thank the 

Editors of the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea, Dr. Inga 

Hedberg and Ms Sue Edwards, for giving the permission 

to use information from Volume 6. 

We are grateful to the individuals at all institutions 

who facilitated the smooth running of the project. The 

great help provided by the Curators and Keepers of the 

National Herbarium in Addis Ababa (ETH) and the Royal 

Botanic Gardens, Kew (K), is acknowledged. The latter 

is particularly acknowledged for providing permission to 

use some of the illustrations and introductory part from 

the book “Field guide to Ethiopian Orchids (Sebsebe 

Demissew et al 2004). 

5


Odd E. Stabbetorp (NINA) was crucial for the handling 

of detailed distribution maps and information in the first 

edition. In this second edition we have simplified this 

information by plotting only the occurrence in floristic 

regions as delineated in Figure 2. Steven Bachman and 

Fisseha Getachew have assisted in this mapping project 

and are acknowledged. 

We would like to extend our thanks and appreciation 

to friends and colleagues that provided us with additional 

photos of plant species that we did not have. The most 

important contributors have been Mike Gilbert, Ib Friis 

and Christof Herrmann. A complete list of photographers 

is given at the end of the book. 

The preparation of the camera ready manuscripts 

for this new edition (and also for the first edition) was 

undertaken by the able Jan Wesenberg, to whom we 

express our sincere gratitude. 

Many thanks to many colleagues, research assistants, 

and students, who in one way or another have contributed 

to the publication of this book. Although many have 

helped us in this process, the mistakes or errors that may 

be encountered, are our own responsibility. 

Sebsebe Demissew, Addis Ababa University 

Inger Nordal, University of Oslo 

January 2010

Introduction 

INTRODUCTION 

Ethiopia and Eritrea are two countries with varied 

topography and climate from hot semidesert temperature 

and an altitude of 115 m below sea level in the Afar 

depression to cooler climates at 4620 m altitude at the top 

of the Semien mountains. These contrasting temperature 

sand altitudes coupled with geology have resulted in 

niches that include about 6000 species of higher plants 

and of which about 10–12% are endemic. Of these species 

,about 1322 species are monocots (22%), with grasses 

accounting to 612 species (c.10%) and the remaining 

monocots including orchids cover about 710 species 

(c.12% of the flora). In this book only the monocots that 

might be considered as “lilies” (see p. 38) are included. 

In this introductory part, the many underlying factors 

that influence the vegetation of a given country or region 

that work on different time scales are briefly described. 

Of these, geology, geography and climate (rainfall and 

temperature), that have worked for a very long time, and 

the human influence, that has worked for a much shorter 

span of time are important factors. The moderate human 

interference in a landscape works in a way that tends to 

diversify the vegetation – creating more vegetation types 

than before the beginning of human activity – while 

strong and prolonged human interference can totally 

degrade a range of vegetation types to a badly eroded and 

denuded landscape with very little differentiation of the 

vegetation left. 

The main information on the geology, geography and 

climate included is obtained from Ethiopian sources. 

However, the information provided also applies to 

Eritrea that shares a strong similarity with northern parts 

of Ethiopia (mainly the Gonder, Tigray and Afar floristic 

regions) except for the coastal part, which is unique for 

Eritrea. 

7


Geology 

Ethiopia’s and Eritrea’s geology is based on an old 

crystalline block, originally part of an immense area 

that stretched from India to Brazil and formed part of 

the ancient supercontinent Gondwanaland. The hard 

crystalline rocks are mainly granites and gneisses, and 

contain many valuable mineral deposits. 

Precambrian rocks with ages of over 600 million 

years, found in parts of Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, Harerge, 

Sidamo, Bale Illubabor and Wellega floristic regions, are 

the oldest rocks in the country and form the basement 

on which younger formations lie (Ethiopian Mapping 

Authority, 1988). These include a wide variety of 

sedimentary, volcanic and intrusive rocks that have been 

metamorphosed to varying degrees. In the southern and 

western parts of the country, these have been more strongly 

metamorphosed than their counterparts in the north. This 

is mainly due to the fact that the rocks in the north have 

been subjected to relatively lower temperatures. 

Towards the end of the Precambrian, a major uplift 

followed by a long period of erosion took place. Sediments 

deposited during the Paleozoic interval (which lasted 

some 375 million years) have been largely removed by 

erosion. 

During the Mesozoic (starting about 225 million years 

ago), subsidence occurred and the sea initially spread 

over the Ogaden then gradually extended further north 

and west. As the depth of the water increased, sandstone, 

mudstone and limestone were deposited. As the land mass 

was again uplifted, sedimentation ended in the western 

parts of the country with the deposition of clay, silt, sand, 

and conglomerate from the land as the sea receded. In the 

southeastern parts, gypsum and anhydrite deposits were 

precipitated. 

In the Early Cenozoic (which began 65 million years 

ago), extensive faulting took place. However, the major 

displacement along the fault systems of the Red Sea, 

Gulf of Aden and East African Rifts occurred later during 

the Tertiary. Faulting was accompanied by widespread 

volcanic activity which led to the deposition of vast 

quantities of basalt, especially over the western half of 

the country. The great tablelands of the centre, northwest 

and east were built up by the spreading of deep 

basalts. Their erosion has now produced the spectacular

INTRODUCTION 

mountain scenery around the edges of the plateau, such as 

the Semien Mountains with its dramatic jagged pinnacles, 

precipices and gorges. The faulting was followed by, and 

alternated with, the eruption of large amounts of ash and 

coarser material, forming the Trap Series. 

Ethiopia’s largest lake, Lake Tana, is the result of the 

damming of a large natural drainage area on the western 

plateau. The Blue Nile disgorges from the Lake and 

has carved a deep, steepsided gorge as it runs in an arc 

around the eastern and southern sides of the lake. The Tis 

Isat Falls close to the lake are where the Blue Nile runs 

over the edge of an ancient lava flow. 

More recent volcanic activity is associated with 

the development of the Rift Valley, activity being 

concentrated within the Rift and along the edges of the 

adjoining plateaux and also in the Danikil Depression. 

Plugs of old volcanoes are seen throughout the highlands. 

Hot springs are frequent in many areas and earth tremors 

are not uncommon. The recent sediments (conglomerate, 

sand, clay, and reef limestone) which accumulated in the 

Afar Depression and at the northern end of the main Rift 

Valley are of Quaternary age. 

Geography 

Ethiopia is located between 3° and 15°N and 33° and 

48°E. It is a large (1.12 million km²) and highly diverse 

country. It is a country of dramatic contrasts, with Ras 

Dashen (Dejen) in the Semien mountains reaching to 

about 4620 m to the Afar Depression in the Danikil 

Desert sinking to 115 m below sea level. Some parts 

the highlands are dissected and form sharp peaks on the 

horizon, giving the impression, as one observer remarked, 

of “a country with a table upsidedown" (Fig. 1). 

Although much of the interior consists of highland 

plateaux, these are interrupted by deep gorges and valleys 

formed by the large rivers and their tributaries such as the 

Abay (Blue Nile), Tekeze, Mereb, Awash, Omo, Genale, 

Wabishebelle and Baro. The African Rift Valley divides 

the country in two: the northwestern highlands on one 

side and the southeastern highlands on the other. Both 

these highland systems gradually decrease in elevation 

to form vast arid or semiarid lowlands in the east, west, 

and southern parts of the country. The Rift Valley is itself 

9


Fig.1. Semien 

Mountains, 

Gonder floristic 

region. 

a dramatic sight with land falling away into a broad gorge 

up to 2000 m deep. Whereas the upper parts of the Rift 

Valley are covered in evergreen forest to grassland, the 

bottom of the gorge is a land of hot, dry savannahs and 

deserts, with groups of large lakes. The natural landscape 

of Ethiopia has been greatly affected by human activities, 

especially agricultural ones over many centuries (Sebsebe 

Demissew, et al. 2003). 

Eritrea (c. 124.320 km 2 ) is located in North East Africa 

between 12° and 18° north, and 36° and 44° east and 

includes the Dahlak Archipelago and other islands along 

the Red Sea coast (http://www.eritrea.be/old/eritreageography.htm). 

It shows geographical variation varying 

between near Lake Kulul within the Afar Depression 75 

m below sea level to the highest point in Mt. Soira at 

3018 m. The central plateau varies from 1800 to 3000 m 

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Eritrea). 

Climate 

Ethiopia exhibits a wide variation in its climate. In the 

Semien and Bale Mountains snowfalls are periodically 

experienced; in the Danikil Desert, daytime temperatures 

can reach 50°C or more. As a rule, the central highlands 

have a temperate climate without extremes of temperature. 

In contrast, the eastern and southern lowlands are hot and 

the southern rift valley has a hot and seasonally moist 

climate.

Temperature 

Rainfall 

A 

B 

INTRODUCTION 

11 

Eritrea also exhibits a variation in its climate. In the 

northcentral parts of the country with highlands ranging 

between 1800 and 3000 m experience a cooler climate, 

while the eastern lowlands along the Red Sea coast and 

the western plains towards the Sudan border experience 

a very hot climate (http://www.eritrea.be/old/eritreageography.htm). 

Elevation, temperature and rainfall are thus the major 

influences on the climate of both Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

In Ethiopia, temperature is mainly influenced by latitude 

and elevation (Ethiopian Mapping Authority, 1988). 

True tropical temperatures are encountered in lowlying 

areas, especially in the east, south and west along the 

country’s borders. Much of the central part of Ethiopia 

is mountainous, with the highest peaks reaching to over 

4000 m. Because the highlands mostly lie over 1500 m 

altitude, typical tropical temperatures are unusual. Thus 

temperature decreases towards the interior, with the 

mean annual temperature ranging from about 40°C in the 

lowlands to less than 10°C in the highest areas. Daily 

extremes of temperature can be experienced, depending 

on one's location. 

In Eritrea, the temperature is hot, dry desert strip 

along Red Sea coast and cooler and wetter in the central 

highlands with areas that reach to 3000 m. 

The rainfall pattern in Ethiopia is influenced by two rainbearing 

wind systems, one bringing the westerly winds 

from the South Atlantic and the other bringing the easterly 

winds from the Indian Ocean and from the Arabian Sea. 

The two systems alternate, producing different rainfall 

regimes in different parts of the country. 

Four major rainfall regimes experienced in Ethiopia 

are shown in Fig. 2 and are characterized as follows. 

The central, eastern and northeastern areas of the country 

receive a bimodal (two peak) rainfall pattern. The small 

spring rains between February and May come from the 

Arabian Sea and the big summer rains, between June and 

September, mainly come from the South Atlantic, but 

also from the Indian Ocean. Both these periods of rain 

decrease in length and amount northwards. 

The southwestern and western areas of the country have 

a single wet period, usually between May and September.


Fig.2. Major 

rainfall patterns 

in Ethiopia. 

Abbreviations used: 

C 

D 

B 

A bimodal rainfall: February-May/June-September; B unimodal rainfall; C bimodal rainfall: 

September-November/March-May; D scanty rainfall but November-February rainfall maximum. 

A 

This is influenced by both the wind systems coming from 

the South Atlantic and the Indian Ocean. The length of 

the wet season decreases northwards. The southwestern 

highlands receive the highest mean annual rainfall in the 

country reaching over 2700 mm. 

The southern and southeastern parts of the country receive 

a distinctly bimodal rainfall with the first peak between 

September and November and the second between March 

and May. There is a distinct dry spell between the two 

peaks. This rainfall pattern is mainly influenced by the 

monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean. 

Parts of the Afar and coastal parts of Eritrea characterized 

by scanty rainfall between November and February. 

Much of the highland in Eritrea follows the same 

rainfall pattern as in northern Ethiopia. However, in 

the coastal parts of Eritrea the rainfall is scanty, but 

with a pronounced winterrain between November and 

February. In Eritrea, three geographic regions can be 

recognized that experience varied amount of rainfall; the 

first one is a narrow eastern lowland desert strip along the 

D 

C

Fig. 3. Floristic 

regions of 

Ethiopia and 

Eritrea, as 

used in the 

distribution 

maps. 

INTRODUCTION 

13 

Red Sea Coast that experience erratic rainfall regimes; 

the second region, which is the northern extension of the 

Ethiopian Plateau in the northcentral parts and dissected 

by the valleys of westward flowing rivers. This region 

receives up to 900 mm of rain per year. The third region 

occupies the area in western plains, that covers a wide 

area extending to Eritrea’s western border with Sudan 

is the most arid area in the country, receiving only 200 

mm of rain per year (http://www.eritrea.be/old/eritreageography.htm). 

The floristic regions of Ethiopia and 

Eritrea 

The indicated distributions of the species in this book 

follow the floristic regions as used in the Flora of Ethiopia 

and Eritrea (Fig. 3). These do not necessarily follow the 

existing political boundaries within the countries. Current 

Regions and Zones of Ethiopia are shown in Fig. 4.


Fig. 4. Current 

regions and 

zones of 

Ethiopia, 

from Sebsebe 

Demissew et al. 

(2004). 

Brief description of the vegetation types 

in Ethiopia and Eritrea 

Over the last 50 years, there have been a number of 

attempts to map the vegetation of Ethiopia and Eritrea on 

scales between 1:5,000,000 and 1:10,000,000. A detailed 

summary was given by Friis & Sebsebe Demissew 

(2001). 

In the first edition of the book, “Flowers of Ethiopia 

and Eritrea: Aloes and other Lilies” published in 2003, the 

vegetation map was following Sebsebe et al. (1996), CSE 

(1997) and Friis (1992) with a scale of 1:10,000,000. 

Fig. 5 (Opposite page). Vegetation map of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Ethiopian 

part of the map with permission redrawn and simplified from Atlas of the 

potential Vegetation of Ethiopia (Friis et al. in prep.); Eritrean part of the 

map based on Sebsebe Demissew et al. (2003).

INTRODUCTION 

15


Recently a detailed vegetation map for Ethiopia 

has been published (Friis et al., 2010) with a scale of 

1:2,000,000. In this map, 12 vegetation types with 15 

mapping units are recognized (see the modified version 

of the map in Fig. 5). Eritrea shares the same vegetation 

types that occur in northern Ethiopia, particularly those 

that occur and continue in Gondar, Tigray and Afar 

floristic regions. 

The twelve vegetation types recognized are: 1. Desert 

and semidesert scrubland; 2. Acacia-Commiphora 

wood land and bushland; 3. Wooded grassland of the 

Western Gambela region; 4. Combretum-Terminalia 

woodland and wooded grassland; 5. Dry evergreen 

Afromontane forest and grassland complex; 6. Moist 

evergreen Afromontane forest; 7. Transitional rain forest; 

8. Ericaceous belt; 9. Afroalpine vegetation; 10. Riverine 

vegetation; 11. Freshwater lakes, lakeshores, marshes, 

swamps and floodplains vegetation, and 12. Salt-water 

lakes, lake shores, salt marshes and pan vegetation. 

Eritrea shares seven of the vegetation types (Desert and 

semidesert scrubland; Acacia-Commiphora woodland 

and bushland; Combretum-Terminalia woodland and 

wooded grassland; Dry evergreen Afromontane forest 

and grassland complex; Riverine vegetation; Freshwater 

lakes, lake shores, marshes, swamps and floodplains 

vegetation, and Saltwater lakes, lake shores, salt marshes 

and pan vegetation) with Ethiopia. In the absence of a 

similar detailed vegetation map, the authors feel it is 

practical to use the detailed vegetation map produced for 

Ethiopia (Friis et al., 2010) to be used as the basis for the 

description of the vegetation map of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

(Fig. 5). In addition, Eritrea has a unique vegetation (the 

coastal vegetation) along the red coast. 

1. Desert and semi-desert scrubland (DSS) 

This vegetation type occurs in areas with scarce vegetation 

cover represented by highly drought tolerant plant species. 

The plants include small trees and shrubby species of 

Acacia (A. ehrenbergiana), Boswellia (B. ogadenensis), 

Commiphora (C. longipedicellata, C. samharensis, C. 

unilobata as well as succulents, including species of 

Euphorbia and Aloe. The grass species are often annual, 

such as Dactyloctenium aegyptium and species of

Fig. 6. Desert 

and semi-desert 

vegetation from 

Dolo, Sidamo 

floristic region. 

INTRODUCTION 

17 

Aristida and Stipagrostis, while another characteristic 

species, Panicum turgidum, is perennial. This vegetation 

type occurs in many parts of the Afar region in lowlying 

and hot areas extending to the lowlands in northern and 

western parts of Eritrea, in parts of the Ogaden and around 

Lake Chew Bahir and the Omo Delta below 400 m. 

Some of the Aloe that occur in this vegetation 

type include A. bertemariae (endemic) and A. citrina 

(Aloaceae). This vegetation type is marked in pale 

creamy yellow colour (Fig. 5) and is represented by an 

example as shown in Fig. 6. 

2. Acacia-Commiphora woodland and bushland 

(ACB) 

This includes large areas of dry lowlands to the east of the 

Ethiopian and Eritrean Highlands and in the Rift Valley. 

Because of considerable differences, this complex has 

been divided into two subtypes. 

Subtype 2a. Acacia-Commiphora woodland and bushland 

proper (ACB) 

This vegetation type is characterized by drought 

tolerant trees and shrubs, with small, either deciduous 

or evergreen leaves. The understorey mainly consists of 

shrubs, per ennial herbs, often with underground waterstoring 

organs, and grasses, of which a large proportion 

is annual. The trees and shrubs include species of Acacia


(A. bussei, A. drepanolobium), Balanites, Com miphora, 

Euphorbia (E. awashensis, E. monacantha, E. burgeri, 

E. cryptocaulis E. gymnocalycioides, all of which are 

endemic), and Aloe species. The ground cover is rich 

in sub shrubs, including species of Acalypha, Barleria, 

and Aerva. The soils are commonly sandy, derived from 

Jurassic and Cretaceous limestone and other sedimentary 

rocks. 

This vegetation type occurs in the northern, eastern, 

central and southern parts of Ethiopia, and eastern and 

northern parts of Eritrea between 400 and 1800(1900) 

m. It is particularly characteristic of extensive areas south 

and east of the Eastern Ethiopian and Eritrean highlands 

and the western part of the Afar floristic region. 

This vegetation type is particularly rich in Aloes and 

other lilies including quite a few endemic or near endemic 

Aloe species such as A. calidophila, A. ellenbeckii, A. 

gilbertii, A. friisii, A. retrospiciens, A. mcloughlinii, A. 

pirottae, A. otallensis (Aloaceae); Ammocharis tinneana 

(Amaryllidaceae); Anthericum neghellense (endemic), 

Chlorophytum pterocarpum (endemic), C. somaliense and 

C. zavattarii (all in Anthericaceae); Asparagus aridicola, 

A. leptocladodius, A. scaberulus (Asparagaceae); Bulbine 

abyssinica (Asphodelaceae); Dracaena ellenbeckiana 

(Dracaenaceae) and Ledebouria kirkii (Hyacinthaceae). 

This vegetation subtype is marked in dusty pink colour 

(Fig. 5) and is represented by an example as shown in 

Fig. 7. 

Subtype 2b. Acacia wooded grassland of the Rift Valley 

(ACB/RF) 

The Acacia wooded grasslands of the Rift Valley consist 

of a tree stratum mainly or almost entirely with species 

of Acacia over a grass stratum. It is located between the 

northern, speciespoor part of the Acacia-Commiphora 

bushland in the western part of the Afar florisic region 

and the southern, species rich part of the Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland in the southern and eastern 

Ethiopian lowlands, but with the absence of members of 

the genus Commiphora. Important characteristic species 

include species of Acacia (A. etbaica, A. seyal, A. albida, 

A. tortilis, A. senegal, etc.; Croton (C. dichogamus) 

and Euphorbia (E. candelabrum). The grasses belong 

mainly to the genera Hyparrhenia, Heteropogon, Setaria, 

Sporobolus and Panicum.

INTRODUCTION 

Fig. 7. Acacia-Commiphora woodland between Konso and Yabello in Sidamo 


19 

The vegetation type is mainly known in the major 

part of the Rift Valley around the major rift valley lakes 

between 1300 to 1800 m.Two of the Aloe that occur 

in this vegetation type include the widespread Aloe 

trichosantha and the endemic Aloe gilbertii subsp. 

gilbertii (Aloaceae). This vegetation subtype is marked 

in palest yellow green colour (Fig. 5) and is represented 

by an example as shown in Fig. 8. 

Fig. 8. Acacia-Commiphora woodland of the Rift Valley near Langano, Shewa 

floristic region.


3. Wooded grassland of the Western Gambela 

region (WGG) 

This vegetation is characterised by a tall grass stratum 

that burns annually and a canopy layer of trees that 

can both tolerate burning and temporary flooding. The 

most dominant species in the tree stratum are species of 

Acacia, especially A. seyal and A. nilotica. The palms, 

Hyphaene thebaica and Borassus aethiopium may also 

occur. In the grass stratum species of Echinochloa, 

Setaria, Hyparrhenia, Cymbopogon and Sorghum are 

common. In the most flooded areas there are nearly pure 

stands of Oryza, especially O. longistaminata. Moisture 

tolerant herbs are also common in the flooded areas, 

e.g. Caperonia serrata (Euphorbiaceae) and Thalia 

geniculata (Maranthaceae). 

This vegetation type occurs in Ethiopia only in the 

western part of Gambela at altitudes between 400450 

m. Some of the lilies that occur in this vegetation type 

include Chlorophytum cameronii and C. macrophyllum 

(Anthericaceae). This vegetation type is marked in 

neutral greyish green colour (Fig. 5). 

4. Combretum-Terminalia woodland and 

wooded grassland (CTW) 

This vegetation type is characterized by small to moderate 

sized trees with fairly large deciduous leaves mainly 

represented by the family Combretaceae, Fabaceae 

and Burseraceae. These include: Boswellia papyrifera, 

Anogeissus leiocarpa, Combretum adenogonium, C. 

hartmanianum, C. molle, C. rochetianum, C. collinum, 

and species of Terminalia, e.g. T. schimperiana; 

Lonchocarpus laxiflorus, Pterocarpus lucens, Dalbergia 

melanoxylon, Pilistigma thonningii, Acacia hockii. 

Other species known from this vegetation type include, 

Stereospermum kunthianum, species of Lannea, e.g. 

L. barteri and L. fruticosa, Sclerocarya birrea and 

Vitex doniana. The solidstemmed lowland bamboo 

Oxytenanthera abyssinica is also a component of the 

vegetation type in western Ethiopia. A number of grass 

species in the genera Echinochloa, Setaria, Hyparrhenia, 

Cymbopogon and Sorghum are characteristic of this

INTRODUCTION 

21 

vegetation type. This vegetation type has been burned 

annually for such a long time that the plants show 

clear adaptations to fire, and it must be assumed not 

to be adversely affected by controlled annual fires. 

This vegetation type occurs SW part of Eritrea, along 

the western escarpment of the Ethiopian plateau, from 

the border region between Ethiopia and Eritrea to the 

western Kefa floristic region to the Sudan and the Omo 

Zone between the 400 and 1800 m. 

Some of the endemic Aloe and other lilies that occur 

in this vegetation type include Aloe benishangulana, 

A. ghibensis (Aloaceae); Chlorophytum herrmanni, C. 

pendulum, C. serpens (all in Anthericaceae); Crinum 

bambusetum (Amaryllidaceae) and Dioscorea abyssinica, 

D. cochleari-apiculata (Dioscoreaceae). Other lilies 

that are widespread in west and central Africa, but that 

reach to this vegetation type in Wellega floristic region in 

Benishangul Gumuz Regional State in western Ethiopia 

include Pancratium centrale (Amaryllidaceae) and 

Zygotritonia praecox (Iridaceae).This vegetation type is 

marked in yellow ochre colour (Fig. 5) and is represented 

by an example as shown in Fig. 9. 

Fig. 9. Combretum-Terminalia woodland, Maze Park, Gamo Gofa floristic 

region.


5. Dry evergreen Afromontane forest and 

grassland complex (DAF) 

This vegetation type represents a complex system of 

successions involving extensive grasslands rich in 

legumes on heavy black clay soils that are periodically 

inundated. Ethiopian agriculture probably developed 

thousands of years ago inside areas covered by this 

vegetation complex, which has been intensely utilised 

by man ever since. The intensive utilization has resulted 

in forests that have diminished in area and has largely 

been replaced by bushlands.This vegetation type occurs 

in areas between the 1800 and 3000 m and is marked in 

green colour (Fig. 5). 

Four distinct subtypes, have been recognized (Friis, 

1992; Friis & Sebsebe Demissew, 2001). However, it has 

not been possible to define these based on parameters as 

altitude or rainfall or to draw boundaries between them. 

Subtype 5a. Undifferentiated Afromontane forest 

(DAF/U) 

The undifferentiated Afromontane forests are either 

Juniperus-Podocarpus forests, or tend towards single 

dominant Podocarpus or Juniperus forests, both with an 

element of broadleaved species. They occur especially 

on the plateaux in the floristic regions of Shewa Wellega, 

Welo, Sidamo, Bale and Harerge floristic regions at 

altitudes between 1500 and 2700 m, with annual rainfall 

between 700 and 1100 mm. The few larger patches that 

are currently observed appear widely separated by areas 

of cultivation and wooded grassland. The canopy is 

usually dominated by the two indigenous gymnosperms 

(Juniperus procera and Podocarpus falcatus). In addition, 

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Croton macrostachyus, 

and Ficus spp. occur frequently. Other medium sized 

trees include Allophylus abyssinicus, Apodytes dimidiata, 

Celtis africana, Olinia rochetiana, Prunus africana, 

Teclea nobilis and Vepris dainellii. 

Some of the Aloe and lilies that occur in this 

subvegetation type include A. debrana (Aloaceae). 

Other lilies that occur include Anthericum angustifolium 

(Anthericaceae), Crinum abyssinicum, Scadoxus multiflorus 

(Amaryllidaceae), and Dracaena steudneri (Dracaenaceae).

INTRODUCTION 

Fig. 10. Dry Afromontane forest, DAFU type at Chilimo Forest, Shewa 


23 

This vegetation subtype is not mapped, but represented 

as shown in Fig. 10. 

Subtype 5b. Dry single-dominant Afromontane forest of 

the Ethiopian highlands (DAF/DS) 

According to Friis (1992), this forest occurs especially 

on the plateaux in Tigray, Gonder, Wello and Harerge 

floristic regions and also in the Eritrean highlands at 

altitudes between (1600) 2200 and 3200 (3300) m with 

annual rainfall between 500 and 1500 mm. The typical 

dominant species in the upper storey of these forests is 

Juniperus procera, with Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata 

and a number of other species below. The smaller trees 

and shrubs include Acokanthera schimperi, Carissa 

spinarum, Clutia abyssinica, Euclea racemosa subsp. 

schimperi, Grewia ferruginea, Maesa lanceolata, Morella 

salicifolia, Teclea nobilis and Rhus natalensis. Some 

of the endemic Aloe that occur in this vegetation type 

include A. adigratana, A. percrassa and A. pulcherrima 

(Aloaceae). In addition Aristea abyssinica (Iridaceae) 

typically belongs heree. This vegetation subtype is not 

mapped, but represented as shown in Fig. 11.


Fig. 11. Dry 

Afromontane 

forest, subtype 

DAF/DS near 

Lake Ashenge in 

Tigray floristic 

region. 

Subtype 5c. Afromontane woodland, wooded grassland 

and grassland (DAF/WG) 

This includes the natural woodlands, wooded grasslands 

and grasslands of the plateau. When a tree stratum is 

present, this consists mainly of species of Acacia (A. 

abyssinica, A. lahai, A. bavazanoi, A. origena and A. 

venosa in the Ethiopian highlands. This vegetation type 

with woody species occurs on well drained sites and with 

edaphic grasslands on areas with black cotton soil which 

may be flooded during the rains. Thus the vegetation 

type must be assumed to have formed a mosaic with the 

forests and evergreen bushland vegetation of the plateau 

before the influence of man. Pure grasslands are seen in 

the highlands as for example in the Arsi floristic region 

between the small towns of Kofele and Adaba. 

Some of the Aloe that occur in this vegetation type 

include A. elegans and A. camperi (Aloaceae). Other 

lilies include Aristea angolensis and Moraea schimperi 

(Iridaceae) and Kniphofia insignis (Asphodelaceae). This 

vegetation subtype is not be mapped , but represented as 

shown in Fig. 12. 

Subtype 5d. Transition between Afromontane vegetation 

and Acacia-Commiphora bushland on the Eastern 

Escarpment (DAF/TR) 

This is a complex of scattered transitional vegetation 

which includes a range of physiognomic types, but with 

characteristic and sometimes very unusual species, such 

as Barbeya oleoides, belonging to the monotypic and 

isolated family Barbeyaceae. The vegetation ranges from 

open forest (e.g. Negelle, Sidamo) to evergreen scrub 

with dispersed trees (on the escarpment of the Ethiopian

Fig. 12. Dry 

Afromontane 

forest Acacaia 

woodland 

subtype DAF near 

Kosober, Gojam 


INTRODUCTION 

25 

plateau) or even clumps of evergreen bushland in 

deciduous Acacia-Commiphora bushland, but even more 

typical in adjacent parts of Somalia). The vegetation 

type occur scattered on the eastern escarpment of the 

Ethiopian Highlands, from the border with Eritrea to 

the Awash Valley, and on the northern escarpment of the 

highlands in the Harerge floristic region from the Awash 

Valley to the border with Somalia. The vegetation type 

is also found on the southeastern slopes of the eastern 

Highlands extending along the mountain chain into 

northern Somalia. Throughout its range this forest type 

occurs on rocky ground with unimpeded drainage at 

altitudes between 1500 m and 2400 m and with an annual 

rainfall of between 400 and 700 mm. 

The following species are rather characteristic of 

the vegetatiin type: Acokanthera schimperi, Barbeya 

oleoides, Berchemia discolor, Cadia purpurea, 

Cladostigma dioicum, Pistacia aethiopica and P. falcata, 

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Schrebera alata and 

Tarchonanthus camphoratus. Some of the Aloe and lilies 

that occur in this vegetation type include A. yavellana 

(endemic) (Aloaceae) and species of Chlorophytum 

(Anthericaceae). This vegetation subtype is not be 

mapped , but represented as shown in Fig. 13.


Fig. 13. Dry Afromontane forest subtype transition at Yabello, Sidamo 


6. Moist evergreen Afromontane forest (MAF) 

This vegetation type is in most cases characterized by one 

or more closed strata of evergreen trees that may reach a 

height of 30 to 40 m. Sometimes only the lower stratum 

remains, due to the removal of the tallest trees. The moist 

evergreen Afromontane forest, according to Friis (1992) 

occurs mainly in the southwestern part of the Ethiopian 

Highlands between (1500) 1800 and 2600 (3000) m, 

with an annual rainfall between 700 and 2000 mm (or 

more). The Harenna Forest on the southern slopes of 

the Bale Mountains is the easternmost example of this 

forest. 

These forests predominantly contain broadleaved 

evergreen species in the multilayered canopy. Podocarpus 

falcatus may occur in the eastern and northernmost 

of these forests, but Podocarpus is never prominent. 

However, the other important conifer, Juniperus procera 

does not occur in this type of moist evergreen forest. The 

most characteristic type of this forest occurs widely in the 

upland parts of the southern Wellega, llubabor (excluding 

the lowlands), and Kefa floristic regions. It is found in 

areas between 1500 and 2500 m, with an annual rainfall 

between 1500 mm and more than 2000 mm, with rain all 

the year round. The absolute maximum of rainfall in the

INTRODUCTION 

27 

area is uncertain, but the estimated maximum of 2600 mm 

per year is thought to be reached in an area north of the 

town of Tepi.The large Harenna Forest on the southern 

side of the Bale Mountains is floristically very closely 

related to the southwestern Ethiopian Afromontane 

rain forest. Near its lower limit, however, the canopy 

of this forest contains large specimens of Podocarpus 

falcatus. It would be worthwhile to note if it occurs with 

the characteristic species mentioned above or occupy a 

distinct lower zone of its own. 

The characteristic emergent species that from the 20 

30 m high canopy is Pouteria adolfi-friederici. Other 

characteristic species include Albizia gummifera, A. 

schimperiana, A. grandibracteata, Sapium ellipticum, 

Euphorbia ampliphylla, Ekebergia capensis, Ficus 

sur, Hallea rubrostipulata, Ocotea kenyensis, Olea 

welwitschii, Polyscias fulva and Schefflera abyssinica. 

Another very characteristic feature of this vegetation 

type, at least in its moister forms (but not yet observed in 

the Harenna Forest), is the tree fern, Cyathea manniana 

(Cyatheaceae). Lianas are also common represented by 

Tiliachora troupinii (endemic), species of Acacia, incl. A. 

pentagona. Epiphytes including ferns, lycopods, orchids 

and Peperomia spp. are also encountered. The mountain 

bamboo Arundinaria alpina is not uncommon at higher 

altitudes in these forests.This vegetation type is marked 

in Blue green colour (Fig. 5) and occurs in areas between 

the 1800 and 3000 m and with annual rainfall larger than 

1700 mm.The vegetation type can be subdivided into two 

not very distinct or natural subtypes. 

Subtype 6a. Primary or mature secondary moist evergreen 

Afromontane forest (MAF/P) 

This is basically the forest type described above. 

Some of the lilies that occur in this vegetation type 

include the endemic Scadoxus nutans (Amaryllidaceae); 

Asparagus asparagoides (Asparagaceae); Dracaena 

afromontana (Dracaenaceae) and Smilax anceps 

(Smilacaceae). The subtype is not mapped separately , 

but represented as shown in Fig. 14.


Fig. 14. Moist Afromontane Forest near Bonga, Kefa floristic region. 

Subtype 6b. Edges of moist evergreen Afromontane 

forest, bushland, woodland and wooded grassland (MAF/ 

BW) 

The subtype represents a grazingcultivation complex 

following destruction of the forest, in the regrowth of 

which it seems to form a seral stage following various 

forms of woodland, and it is closely associated with 

communities that occur at forest edges (Friis et al., 

1982). One of the lilies that occur in this vegetation type 

is the endemic Scadoxus nutans (Amaryllidaceae). This 

vegetation subtype is not mapped. 

7. Transitional rainforest (TRF) 

This forest type was what was earlier considered as 

subtype 2 of the Moist Afromontane Forest – the 

transitional rainforest and the lowland semi-evergreen 

forest (Sebsebe Demissew et al., 2003, 2004; Sebsebe 

Demissew & Friis, 2009). Scattered examples of these 

forests are known from the western escarpment of the 

Ethiopian Highlands in the Wellega, Illubabor and Kefa

INTRODUCTION 

29 

floristic regions, where the rainfall and hence humidity 

from the rainbearing southwesterly winds is highest. 

The forests occur between 450 and 1500 m elevation. 

The rainfall is close to 2000 mm or higher (up to 2700 

mm), with some rain all the year round. The transitional 

rainforests are most similar in physiognomy and 

composition to the humid broadleaved Afromontane 

rainforests of southwestern Ethiopia (characterized as 

Moist Afromontane forests). The characteristic species in 

this vegetation type are Alstonia boonei, Morus mesozygia, 

Pouteria altissima and Trilepisium madagascariense. 

Other species that are commonly found in this vegetation 

type are Baphia abyssinica, Celtis toka, Diospyros 

abyssinica, Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius, Pouteria 

(Malacantha) alnifolia, Trichilia prieureana, Trilepisium 

madagascariense, Zanha golungensis and Zanthoxylum 

leprieurii. This vegetation type is characteristic of the 

moist and hot lower slopes of the southwest Ethiopian 

highlands, between 500 and 1500 m. 

Some of the lilies that occur in this vegetation type 

include Chlorophytum macrophyllum (Anthericaceae); 

Dracaena fragrans (Dracaenaceae) and Smilax anceps 

(Smilacaceae). This vegetation type is marked in yellow 

green colour (Fig. 5) and is represented as shown in Fig. 

15. 

Fig. 15. Transitional rainforest near Bebeka, Illubabor floristic region.


8. The Ericaceous belt (EB) 

A well developed Ericaceous belt is characteristic for 

most of the higher mountains in Ethiopia. However, the 

upper and lower limits of this vegetation type are quite 

difficult to define. The vegetation is defined somewhat 

arbitrarily by its occurrence mainly between the 3000 and 

the 3200 m. This altitudinal range borders below with the 

upper zone of the Dry Afromontane forest and the Moist 

Afromontane forest. The belt is most notable above the 

Harenna forest in the Bale Mountains. It borders with the 

Afroalpine zone proper at about 3200 m. 

The Ericaceous belt is phsyiognomically characterized 

by the dominance of shrubs and shrubby trees such as Erica 

arborea, Erica (Phillipia) trimera, Hypericum revolutum, 

Myrsine melanophloeos and perennial herbs Alchemilla 

haumannii, Geranium arabicum, Anthemis tigreensis, 

Haplocarpha ruppellii, Helichrysum citrispinum, H. 

splendidum, H. gofense, H. formosissimum, Senecio 

schultzii, Trifolium acaule and T. burchellianum. 

The highest point in Eritrea is the mountain called 

MtSoira, c. 3010 m (http://www.eritrea.be/old/eritreageography.htm). 

Thus the Erica species might occur, but 

possibly not forming a belt. But this has to be verified by 

resident botanists. 

Lilies are not commonly found in this vegetation type. 

However, those species that are found in the Afroalpine 

vegetation could also be encountered here. This include 

Hesperantha petitiana, Romulea fischeri and R. schimperi 

(Iridaceae). This vegetation type is marked in dark pink 

colour (Fig. 5) and is represented as shown in Fig. 16. 

9. Afroalpine vegetation (AA) 

This vegetation type is characterized by small trees, 

shrubs and shrubby herbs at the lower altitudes and 

giant herbs, small herbs and grasses. It occurs in areas 

above 3200 m, occupying the highest mountains in the 

Ethiopia. Some examples include: Amba Alagi (3440 m) 

in the Tigray floristic region; the Choke Mountains (4070 

m) in the Gojam floristic region; the Semien Mountains 

(the tallest peak in the Semien Mountains, Ras Dashen 

(4620 m), Mt. Buahit (4510 m) and Abba Yared (4460 

m) in the Gonder floristic region; Abyue Meda (4305) in

Fig. 16. Ericaceous belt above Rira, Bale floristic region. 

INTRODUCTION 

31 

the Shewa floristic region; Guge Highlands (4200) in the 

Gamo Gofa floristic region; Mt. Kaka (4190 m) in the 

Arsi floristic region and, the extensive Bale Mountains 

(in which the highest peaks are Tulu Dimtu (4377 m) and 

Mt. Batu (4307 m) in the Bale floristic region. 

The Afroalpine vegetation is best characterized by a 

combination of giant Lobelias, cushionforming species 

of Helichrysum, shrubby species of Alchemilla, and 

prominence of temperate grass genera such as Festuca, 

Poa and Agrostis. The presence of Lobelia rhynchopetalum 

can be taken as an indicator of Afroalpine vegetation. 

The common grasses include endemic species of Festuca 

(F. gilbertiana, F. macrophylla), Poa (Poa hedbergii, 

P. chokensis, P. simensis) and Agrostis (A. gracilifolia 

subsp. parviflora). 

One of the endemic Aloe species that occur in this 

vegetation type include A. ankoberensis. Other liles 

include Kniphofia foliosa (Asphodelaceae) Hesperantha 

petitiana, Romulea fischeri and R. schimperi (Iridaceae). 

This vegetation type is marked in paler mauve pink colour 

(Fig. 5) and is represented as shown in Fig. 17.


Fig. 17. 

Afroalpine 

vegetation - 

Senaiti Plateau, 

Bale floristic 

region. 

10. Riverine vegetation (RV) 

Ethiopia has several major systems of rivers and 

tributaries: Abay (BlueNile) (starting in northwest), 

Awash (starting in central), Baro (starting in the west), 

Omo (starting in centralwest), Tekezze (starting in the 

north), WabiShebele (starting in the southeast). 

Eritrea also has some major rivers such as the Anseba 

and Barka rivers flowing north; the Gash and Tekeze 

rivers on the border with Ethiopia flowing west into the 

Sudan. The upper course of the Gash river is known as 

the Mereb river. These rivers are not year round rivers 

and do not run on a regular basis, but fed by seasonal 

rains during the main rainy season http://www.eritrea. 

be/old/eritreageography.htm). These rivers and their 

tributaries have riverine forests and riparian woodlands 

in areas below 1800 m. The riverine forest vegetation is 

very variable, and the floristic composition is dependent 

on altitude and geographical location. Characteristic 

common trees in these forests are Acacia polyacantha 

subsp. campylacantha, Ficus sycomorus, Salix subserrata, 

Trichilia emetica, Diospyros mespiliformis, 

Mimusops kummel, Syzygium guineense, Tamarindus 

indica, Tamarix nilotica, Breonardia salicifolia, and 

Phoenix reclinata. There is often a shrub layer, and lianas 

and vascular epiphytes occur. The ground cover includes 

grasses, ferns, and a few herbaceous dicotyledons. Lilies 

are uncommon along the major rivers. 

Most riverine and riparian habitats are probably to 

narrow and striplike to map at the scale of 1:2,000,000 

and hence not mapped and marked, but on the original

Fig. 18. Riverine 

vegetation along 

the Abay River 

S of Mankush in 

Wellega floristic 

region. 

INTRODUCTION 

33 

map represented by shown in darker blue lines, but 

represented as shown in Fig. 18. 

11. Fresh-water lakes, lake shores, marsh and 

floodplain vegetation (FLV) 

For freshwater, the generally accepted upper limit of 

dissolved salts in the water is c. 1000 ppm. 

However, authors like Wood & Talling (1988), who 

carried out field studies of the plankton flora in a wide 

range of Ethiopian lakes followed the classification 

proposed by Williams (1964), with an upper limit for what 

is classified as fresh water higher than 1000 ppm i.e up to 

3000 ppm. This vegetation type is found in freshwater 

lakes with open water, on lake shores, in marshes and 

Floodplains. Two subtypes are recognized in this major 

vegetation type. The details of the differences between 

the two subtypes and the definitions are presented in Friis 

et al. (2010). 

Subtype 11a. Freshwater lakes – Open water vegetation 

(FLV/OW) 

This includes lakes which have a concentration of salts 

below 3000 ppm. This vegetation type is found in the 

open water. The characteristic species include floating 

aquatics such as Eichornia natans and the invasive E. 

crassipes, native Lemna aequinoctalis, L. gibba, L. 

minor, Pistia stratiotes, Spirodela polyrrhiza and Wolffia 

arrhiza.


The major freshwater lakes in Ethiopia include Lake 

Tana, Lake Zengana, Lake Ashenge, Lakes Hayq and 

Ardibo, Lakes Langano and Lake Zwai, Lake Awassa, 

Lakes Abaya, Chamo and Turkana.There are also smaller 

sized crater lakes such as Bishoftu Crater Lakes.The 

reservoirs, such as the Koka Reservoir along the Awash 

River and the Fincha Reservoir along the Fincha River 

are the two oldest ones. 

This vegetation subtype is marked in darker blue areas 

(Fig. 5) and represented as shown in Fig. 19. 

Subtype 11b. Freshwater marshes and swamps, 

floodplains and lake shore vegetation (FLV/MFS) 

A large number of areas with marshy/swamp vegetation 

occur in the central and western parts of Ethiopia, while 

there are fewer to the east. Important marsh areas are: 

the Fogera and Dembia marshes/swamps (in the Gonder 

floristic region), the Chomen and Dabus marshes/swamps 

(in the Wellega floristic region), the Cheffa marshes (in 

the Wello floristic region). There are a large number 

of smaller sized marshes/swamps dotted throughout 

the country, mainly in the Ilubabor, Kefa and Wellega 


There are also Floodplains and Freshwater intermittent 

wetlands in flat or nearly flat lands adjacent to rivers or 

streams that experiences occasional or periodic flooding. 

For example: Large expanses near the village of Tefki 

(at about 50 km west of Addis Abeba on the road to 

Jima) and near Koka (between the small towns of Mojo 

and Meki) are examples of flood plains created by the 

overflow of the Awash River over its banks and the latter 

also seen in many parts of Ethiopia mainly in the Gojam, 

Kefa and Illubabor floristic regions. 

The characteristic species in freshwater marsh/swamp, 

floodplain and lake shore vegetation along the shores of 

fresh water lakes include the sedges such as Cyperus 

digitatus, C. denudatus, C. dichroostachys, Juncus 

dregeanus, Floscopa glomerata, species of Eriocaulon 

and Xyris, Persicaria decipiens, Ludwigia abyssinica, 

Chenopodium album, Ranunculus multifidus, Nymphaea 

lotus and Phoenix reclinata (Arecaceae). Liles are rather 

uncommon in this vegetation type. This vegetation type 

is marked in paler blue colour (Fig. 5).

Fig. 19. Lake Tana near Gorgora, Gonder floristic region. 

INTRODUCTION 

35 

12. Salt-water lakes, salt-lake shores, marsh and 

pan vegetation (SLV) 

This vegetation type is characterized by the occurrence 

of salt tolerant species in or along Salt water lakes, pans 

and intermittent saline wetlands, where the water is saline 

with concentration normally taken to be between 3000 

and 35,000 ppm as indicated earlier. Only one woody 

species is known to be associated with this vegetation 

type, Suaeda monoica (Chenopodiaceae), which, 

however, can form extensive stands on salt pans on the 

shores of salt lakes. The number of herbaceous species is 

also low and lilies are not expected to occur. 

Two subtypes are recognized in this vegetation type. 

The details of the differences between the two subtypes 

and the definitions are presented in Friis et al. (2010). 

Subtype 12a. Salt-water lakes - open water vegetation 

(SLV/OW) 

These are also known as saline lakes. They are formed 

where there is no natural outlet and where the water 

evaporates rapidly leaving a higher amount of salt than 

normal. The vegetation along these lakes also depends 

on the measure of salinity, at high salinity the family 

Chenopodiaceae tends to dominate.


The salts in the salty lakes in the central rift valley 

including Lakes Abijata, Shala and Chitu (all in the 

Shewa floristic region) are mainly consisting of sodium 

bicarbonate (soda lakes), while the salts in the salt Lakes 

in the in the more arid parts of the country, where both 

temperatures and evaporation are high, mainly consists 

of sodium chloride (the common salt of the ocean). 

These include Lakes Abe, Afambo and Bario that are 

fed by the River Awash, the desert lakes Lake Afrera and 

Karum (Asale) in the Afar Depression. In Eritrea, it is 

represented by Lake Kulul and similar lakes within the 

Afar Depression at about 75 m below sea level (http:// 

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Eritrea). There are 

hardly any vascular plants known to occur in these lakes. 

This vegetation type is marked in pale yellow colour 

(Fig. 5). 

Subtype 12b. Salt pans, saline/brackish and intermittent 

wetlands and salt-lake shore vegetation (SLV/SSS) 

This vegetation subtype is characterized by Suaeda 

monoica, herbaceous species of Atriplex spp. and 

Salicornia (all in Chenopodiaceae) and is marked in dark 

mauve colour (Fig. 5). 

Coastal vegetation 

This vegetation type is characterized by highly salt 

tolerant plant species along the shores of the Red Sea 

(Fig. 20). These plants include low shrubs and tussock 

forming plants, partcularly in the families Capparaceae, 

Chenopodiaceae, Salvadoraceae, Zygophyllaceae and 

Poa ceae (grasses). The mangrove species, Avicennia 

marina and Rhizophora mucronata are also components 

of the coastal vegetation. The areas covered by coastal 

vegetation are often rocky or sandy, and the latter ones 

are particularly prone to wind erosion. This vegetation 

is restricted to the coastal parts of Eritrea, adjacent to 

the Red Sea and is not mapped. The total coastline for 

Eritrea is indicated as 2 234 km with Red Sea accounting 

for 1151 km and other islands in Red Sea accounting to 

1083 km (html:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_ 

Eritrea).

Fig. 20. Coastal vegetation in Eritrea, near Masawa, with Aloe 

eumassawana. 

INTRODUCTION 

37 

One of the Aloe species that occur in this vegetation 

type include A. eumassawana (Aloaceae) around 

Hargigo, near Massawa. It is also currently recorded 

from Djibouti.


What is a lily? 

Lilies in the widest sense are recognised by their 6 more or 

less equal, often showy, tepals, without differentiation into 

sepals and petals. Until the first edition of ‘The families of 

flowering plants’ (Hutchinson 1934), the delimitation of 

families within Liliflorae – i.e. lilies in the widest sense – 

was fairly simple: 6 stamens and perianth situated below 

the ovary (hypogynous) meant that the plant belonged to 

the family Liliaceae; 6 stamens and perianth above the 

ovary (epigynous) meant Amaryllidaceae; and 3 stamens 

and perianth above the ovary meant Iridaceae. 

This simplistic system started to collapse 

when Hutchinson proposed to restrict the family 

Amaryllidaceae to include only bulbous plants with an 

umbellate inflorescence. In the African flora, this lead 

to the recognition of an additional family, Hyp o xi daceae, 

with corms/tubers and a ± racemose inflorescence. 

All information obtained later, from chemistry, 

micromorphology and molecular data, supported this 

delimitation, showing that epigynous flowers within the 

Liliflorae have developed more than once. In the New 

World, the more restricted definition of Amaryllidaceae 

lead to the recognition of Alstroemeriaceae and Agavaceae 

– the latter represented in Africa by introduced species of 

Agave. Iridaceae has, on the other hand, remained fairly 

constant since its description by Jussieu in late 18th 

century. 

The splitting of the family Liliaceae started rather 

late. In their book ‘The families of the monocotyledons’, 

Dahlgren et al. (1985) proposed to split Liliaceae into 

more than 20 new families, which were further placed 

in 5 different orders (Asparagales, Burmanni ales, 

Dioscoreales, Liliales, and Melanthiales). The family 

Liliaceae itself is in fact no longer represented by any 

indigenous taxa in Africa south of the Sahara – only 

by intro duced representatives of the genus Lilium. The 

family in its widest sense has rather conservative and 

primitive flower structures. With cladistic terminology 

we might say that the family in its traditional 

circumscription constituted a huge paraphyletic (possibly 

even poly phyletic) assemblage, defined only by primitive 

(plesiomorphic) traits. Such families have to be redefined 

to give monophyletic entities. 

In recent publications of Floras of tropical Africa, this

INTRODUCTION 

39 

Dahlgren system has to a large extent been accepted (e.g. 

Flore du Cameroun, Flore du Gabon, Flora of Ethiopia 

and Eritrea, Flora of Somalia, Flora of Tropical East 

Africa, and Flora Zambesiaca). 

After the publication of Dahlgren’s classification, 

DNA studies have become increasingly important. As 

a result of these, several taxonomic changes have been 

proposed (by the socalled Angiosperm Phylogeny 

Group), and one might say that the monocot systematics 

are still in flux. There is a tendency now to merge the 

some of the former Liliaceae splitoff families again, but 

no consensus is reached. We have therefore decided to 

stick to the family concept of Dahlgren as also used in 

the mentioned floras. 

In taxonomy, the aim is to have taxonomic groups that 

are monophyletic. This means that all members of the 

group are considered to have one common ancestor, and 

that all offspring from this ancestor should be included 

in the group. The monophyletic group including all the 

lilies also includes the orchids. The orchids, however, 

are so diverse and so particular in many respects, and the 

Ethiopian ones have got a book on their own (Field Guide 

to Ethiopian Orchids, Sebsebe Demissew et al. 2004).


Key to the families 

Families treated in this book are in bold. 

1. Tepals situated below the ovary. 2 

- Tepals situated above the ovary 13 

2. Leaves reduced to scales or spines, their function often fulfilled by modified 

green branches (cladodes), which sometimes are leaflike (phylloclades) 

Asparagaceae (p. 289) 

- Leaves in rosettes or along climbing stems 3 

3. Climbing plants with leathery heart-shaped leaves, stems often prickly 

Smilacaceae (p. 321) 

- Non-climbing herbs with rosettes of linear to lanceolate leaves which are not 

leathery 4 

4. Plants either with a woody trunk and leaves in rosettes at ends of branches or 

with short stems producing leaves in clumps, leaves with fibers; fruit a berry 

Dracaenaceae (p. 274) 

- Plants without a woody trunk (or if with a trunk, then leaves are fleshy and 

without fibers, i.e. Aloe); fruit a capsule 5 

5. Inflorescences on leafy scapes 6 

- Inflorescences on leafless scapes 8 

6. Plants with bulbs, cultivated only Liliaceae 

- Plants with rhizomes, corms or tubers 7 

7. Ovary with 3 free styles Colchicaceae (p. 210) 

- Ovary with 1 style Anthericaceae (p. 127) 

8. Plants with 1—3 leaves, small yellowish flowers, hairy seeds 

Eriospermaceae (p. 271) 

- Plants most often with more than 3 leaves, flowers, white, yellowish or red; 

seeds never with hairs 9

KEY TO THE FAMILIES 

41 

9. Plants with bulbs 10 

- Plants with corms or rhizomes 11 

10. Inflorescence spike or raceme Hyacinthaceae (p. 183) 

- Inflorescence umbel-like Alliaceae (p. 206) 

11. Rhizomes whitish inside; flowers white, sometimes streaked with greenish, 

brownish or reddish; seeds more or less glossy, black Anthericaceae (p. 127) 

- Rhizomes yellowish inside; flowers most often yellow or red, rarely whitish; 

seeds dull greyish to brownish 12 

12. Leaves thick and fleshy; margins usually with spiny teeth; perianth tubular 

Aloaceae (p. 42) 

- Leaves relatively thin, rarely tubular, without spiny teeth; perianth open, starshaped 

or tubular Asphodelaceae (p. 110) 

13. Climbing plants, flowers unisexual, fruits 3-winged Dioscoreaceae (p. 305) 

- Non-climbing plants, flowers bisexual, fruits not winged 14 

14. Stamens 1; pollen glued to a horn-like structure Orchidaceae 

- Stamens 3 or 6; pollen not glued together 15 

15. Stamens 3 Iridaceae (p. 223) 

- Stamens 6 16 

16. Leaves with long petioles, blades much divided; bracts with long hanging 

appendages Taccaceae (p. 319) 

- Leaves sessile or with a short petiole, blades not divided; bracts without long 

hanging appendages 17 

17. Plants with more than 1m long leaves; inflorescence a panicle more than 2 m 

long Agavaceae 

- Plants with leaves less than 1m long; inflorescence less than 1 m long 18 

18. Flowers in umbel-like inflorescences (rarely 1-flowered), subtended by two or 

more spathe-like bracts and borne on naked stems; underground part a bulb 

Amaryllidaceae (p. 162) 

- Flowers solitary or in racemes, subtended by small bracts; underground part a 

rhizome or a corm 19 

19. Herbaceous geophyte, flowers yellow Hypoxidaceae (p. 260) 

- Woody plants, stems clothed with persistent old leaf bases, flowers white to 

pink Velloziaceae (p. 325)

42 ALOACEAE 

ALOACEAE 

The members of this family are perennial, with or without 

a woody trunk. They have thick, usually bright yellow 

roots (due to the high content of anthraquinons, a yellow 

pigment characteristic for the families Aloaceae and 

Aspho del aceae). Most representatives have succulent 

leaves in a basal rosette, or on the trunk. The flowers 

are large and showy, usually fleshy, glabrous or hairy, 

bisexual, and nearly radially symmetric. The perianth 

is situated below the ovary and consists of six tepals. 

Septal glands producing nectar are found in the walls that 

separate the three rooms of the ovary. The ovary develops 

into a capsule which opens by three slits between these 

walls. In each room there are two to numerous seeds. The 

seeds have an extra seed coat (aril) which can easily be 

peeled off. 

This mainly African family includes 7 genera, (Aloe, 

Chamaealoe, Poelnizia, Astroloba, Lomatophyllum, 

Haworthia, and Gasteria) of which only one, Aloe, is 

represented in the Horn of Africa. It is now often joined 

with Asphodelaceae. 

ALOE L. 

The genus Aloe was described by Linnaeus in 1753. The 

south African botanist G.W. Reynolds contributed greatly 

to the knowledge of this genus through the publication of 

two large, well illustrated books, one in 1950 covering the 

southern African species and the second in 1966 covering 

the tropical African and the Madagascar species. Quite a 

number of new species were described from Ethiopia in 

the 1990’s and eight additional new species have been 

discovered since the publication of Volume 6 of Flora of 

Ethiopia and Eritrea in 1997. 

The plants are easily recognised by their rosettes 

of large, thick, succulent leaves, which are sometimes 

spotted. The rosettes are situated on the ground or on

Distribution and 

classification 

ALOE 

43 

trunks up to 2 m. In rare cases, the thick leaves are spaced 

along a stem rather than crowded in a rosette. In most 

species the leaves are Dshaped in cross section, but 

some have leaves more or less Vshaped in cross section. 

The leaf margin is almost always armed with sharp teeth. 

The inflorescence is usually branched (occasionally 

simple), the lower branches sometimes branching again. 

Each flower is supported by a bract, the shape and size of 

which are important for the identification of the species. 

Flower colouration is most often red, orange or yellow, 

rarely white. The tepals are fused to form a tube (but 

free to the base in Aloe steudneri). The upper parts of 

the tepals are more or less reflexed. The 3+3 stamens 

are free, inserted at the base of the ovary, exserted in the 

flowering stage. The capsule wall is papery or slightly 

woody when mature. The seeds are irregularly 3sided to 

flattened, narrowly to broadly winged. 

The genus, which includes about 400 species, has its 

main distribution in Africa south of the Sahara, including 

Madagascar and the Mascarenes. Few species reach the 

Arabian Peninsula and Socotra. The genus was introduced 

by man to the Mediterranean region and the West Indies 

a long time ago. Several species are now very widely 

grown as ornamentals in drier, ± frost free parts of the 

world. 

It has been suggested that the centre of origin for 

the genus is in the highlands of SE Africa, whence the 

ancestral aloes spread during the Tertiary era. Southern 

Africa is particularly rich in endemic species, but also in 

Ethiopia and Eritrea, it has a high proportion of endemics 

and near endemics, c. 80%. 

In Ethiopia and Eritrea, 40 species of Aloe were 

known during the first edition and six more species (A. 

benishangulana, A. clarkei, A. elkerriana, A. ghibensis, 

A. welmelensis and A. weloensis) have been described in 

the last seven years making a total to 46 species so far. It is 

also interesting to note that most species have a very local 

distribution. Exceptions are for example A. macrocarpa, 

which is distributed in a belt from Somalia to West 

Africa, A. parvidens and A. ruspoliana and A. lateritia 

extending to Tanzania and and A. secundiflora extending 

to Rwanda, and A. retrospiciens and A. trichosantha, 

on the Horn of Africa. The endemic taxa fall more or 

less into four main geographical areas in Ethiopia and 

Eritrea. The first group of 16 endemics is restricted to

44 ALOACEAE 

Reproduction 

Chemistry and 

use 

the northern and central highlands, north and west of the 

Rift valley (for example Aloe elegans, A. pulcherrima, 

and A. debrana). The second group includes 9 species 

which are restricted to the eastern and SE highlands 

and lowlands (for example A. elkerriana, A. harlana, A. 

mcloughlinii and a newly described A. welmelensis). The 

third group of 6 endemics (for example Aloe gilbertii, 

A. otallensis, and A. friisii) are mainly restricted to the 

southern parts. The fourth group that includes 4 species 

(Aloe clarkei and A. kefaensis, and the newly described 

A. benishangulana and A. ghibensis that belong to the 

western parts of Ethiopia). 

The aloes have long tubular, most often red to yellow 

flowers, producing considerable amounts of nectar, all 

traits indicating typical adaptations to bird pollination. 

The different aloe species have different flowering 

periods; some flower over an extended period, thereby 

offering a continuous food supply for nectar feeding birds. 

Accordingly the aloes make an important contribution 

to the bird biodiversity of Ethiopia, especially for the 

sun birds. At the same time, the birds are vital for the 

pollination of the flowers and seed set. 

The flowers are slightly protandrous, which means 

that the pollen grains mature and are released before the 

stigma becomes receptive, thereby the flowers avoid selfpollination. 

When a bird arrives to enjoy the nectar in a 

flower, it will either get powdered with pollen or deposit 

pollen from earlier flower visits on the stigma. 

The stiff erect capsules are only open in the upper part. 

This hampers an easy fallout of the seeds. A strong wind 

or a strong kick is required to release or eject the seeds. 

These processes ensure that the seeds are thrown some 

distance from the mother plant. The function of the thin 

arils covering the seeds is not clearly understood. 

In addition to reproduction by seeds, several species 

have the ability to produce lateral rosettes that may 

develop into independent individuals by fragmentation. 

The new plantlets are capable of producing new roots, 

and this is an important factor for maintaining the 

populations. This is often seen in the spatial arrangement 

of the individuals, which occur in clusters. 

Aloe, the term here referring to the dried latex extracted 

from the leaves, has figured in the civilizations of Africa, 

Asia, Europe and the Middle East for thousands of years.

Conservation 

ALOE 

45 

Plants producing “Aloe vera” juice are these days being 

grown in the Mediterranean region, the southern part of 

North America, and the West Indies. The species “Aloe 

vera” has an uncertain origin, but the name is probably 

synonymous with A. barbadensis from the Caribbean 

area. This species must originally have been introduced 

from the Old World, probably Africa, but its origin has 

not yet been sorted out. In South Africa, Aloe ferox is 

highly valued and used in a similar way as A. vera. 

Aloe species have been used for a long time in folk 

medicine for the treatment of constipation, burns and 

dermatitis. Recently, some species of Aloe, especially 

relatives of species numbers 1 to 6 below, have been 

used in a wide range of skin and hair care products, and 

also form the basis of health drinks and tonics. The slimy 

gel inside the leaves consists of a complex mixture of 

polysaccharides, amino acids, minerals, trace elements 

and other biologically active substances, such as 

enzymes. Aloe species have been the source of laxative 

drugs, the main purgative principle being an anthroneCglycoside, 

aloin, which occurs at levels of between 18 and 

30% of the dried product (British Pharmacopoeia 1993, 

United States Pharmacopoeia 1995). Recent research has 

indicated that aloe might kill the bacteria responsible 

for tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and also 

the herpes virus causing herpes genitalis. Research has 

further shown that aloe inhibits growth of many common 

organisms such as yeasts, fungi, and bacteria infecting 

wounds. 

Except for analyses of some chemical compounds 

undertaken by Professor Ermias Dagne and his group at 

the Chemistry Department in Addis Ababa University, 

little is known about the chemistry of the Ethiopian 

species. There are obviously several interesting aspects 

of the Ethiopian Aloe species that need further study, 

and the endemic Ethiopian aloes represent an economic 

potential. 

Many species of Aloe are threatened due to habitat 

destruction caused by urban and regional developments. 

Elsewhere in Africa a few species are collected for their 

use in medicine and the cosmetic industry, and these 

might be threatened by harvesting. Another important 

concern is that many species have very restricted areas 

of distribution and occur only in small populations. The 

aloes may also be a target for succulent enthusiasts in

46 ALOACEAE 

Key to the species 

their quest for rarities. All species of Aloe (except A. 

vera) are in the CITES (Convention on International 

Trade on Endangered Species) list, clearly indicating 

their vulnerability. 

Aloes are keystone species in the ecosystem, being 

perennial plants, able to tolerate extreme environmental 

conditions and provide important source of shelter, 

nectar food and moisture, especially for birds. It is thus 

imperative to document information on the biology, 

ecology, distribution and chemistry of these species 

in order to take appropriate measures to conserve and 

promote sustainable use of these botanical treasures. 

Due to the size and succulence of these plants, herbarium 

material of this group is often poorly prepared. It is 

however, possible to collect herbarium specimens 

in a nondestructive manner by removing only the 

inflorescence and a few representative leaves. It is vital 

to have information on the overall size and habit of the 

plant and to take precautions to ensure that herbarium 

material dries reasonably quickly. Leaves should be split 

lengthwise, keeping the upper surface and margin intact 

if possible, and all the central water storage tissue scraped 

away (Vshaped leaves also need to be split along the 

middle), after which drying is easier. If this is not done, 

leaves can take weeks, even months, to dry, and often rot 

or discolour badly. Flowers are best preserved by dipping 

in petrol or boiling water, or they may be placed in a deep 

freezer. If this is not done most flowers will drop off and 

there is excessive shrinkage and distortion. Good photos 

are important supplements to herbarium material. 

Some of the species are closely related and might be difficult to differentiate 

from each other in herbaria collections. All measurements in the keys are 

based on dried material and are thus often smaller than those for fresh 

material. Shrinkage of the very fleshy flowers is significant, usually about 

20(25)% in well pressed flowers. Marginal teeth of the leaves are counted 

towards the leaf base. 

1. Perianth and bracts shortly hairy or papillate; racemes commonly over 40 cm 

long, erect, inflorescence unbranched or with up to 4 lateral racemes 2 

- Perianth and bracts glabrous; Racemes up to 35 cm long, usually less, 

inflorescence often profusely branched, rarely with fewer than 4 racemes 7

ALOE 

47 

2. Perianth and bracts shortly hairy; perianth (20—)23—40 mm long 3 

- perianth and bracts minutely papilate; perianth 15—21 mm long 6 

3. Bracts spreading or gently recurved 4 

- Bracts at anthesis sharply reflexed from base; pedicels up to 8 mm long 

1. A. trichosantha 

4. Adult leaves prominently spotted; bracts 3—4 mm wide 5 

- Adult leaves without spots (juvenile plants sometimes profusely spotted); bracts 

6—14 mm wide 2. A. pubescens 

5. Leaves not inrolled; leaves without spines on the lower surface; perianth 

greenish yellow or grey-green 3. A. citrina 

- Leaves inrolled; 3—4 spines on the lower surface of leaves; perianth coral red 

4. A. bertemariae 

6. Marginal teeth c. 3 mm long; perianth (18—)20—21 mm long, outer lobes free c. 

1/3 of length 5. A. eumassawana 

- Marginal teeth almost absent; perianth c. 15 mm long, outer lobes free c. 2/3 

of length 6. A. scholleri 

7. Flower buds with subglobose basal swelling constricted into narrower tube; 

leaves very soft, always with longitudinal lines and usually profusely spotted 8 

- Flower bud clavate, cylindrical or conical, sometimes ± 3-angled; leaves various 

but if spotted then rather hard in texture and not with longitudinal lines 11 

8. Leaves lanceolate to ovate, over 5 cm wide and/or less than 5 times as long as 

broad; marginal teeth up to 24 per 10 cm, 2—4.5 mm long 9 

- Leaves linear-oblong, up to 2 cm wide, more than 8 times as long as broad; 

marginal teeth 28—40 per 10 cm, up to 1.5 mm long 10. A. ellenbeckii 

9. Bracts 2—5 mm long; Perianth 21—23 mm long; fruit c. 18—20 mm long; known 

only from near Dessie in Welo 7. A. weloensis 

- Bracts 6—20 mm long; perianth 20—35 mm; capsule 25—40 mm long; known 

from Sidamo and Kefa except the widespread A. macrocarpa 10. 

10. Leaves very fleshy; basal swelling of perianth well developed, globose 

(widespread in the drier highlands and lowlands) 11 

- Leaves much more fleshy than typical for the genus, spotting rather sparse, 

sometimes absent; basal swelling of perianth not as clearly globose as in other 

related species; known only from Kefa in the wild and cultivated in Addis 

11. A. kefaensis 

11. Leaf margin with 10—24 teeth per 10 cm; capsules ellipsoidal, 25—40 mm long 

8. A. macrocarpa

48 ALOACEAE 

- Leaf margin with 8—10 teeth per 10 cm; capsules cylindrical, 37—40 mm long 

9. A. lateritia 

12. Marginal teeth 0.3—1.5 mm long, sometimes ± obsolete; leaves always very 

soft and thin-skinned, pale grey-green, sometimes yellowish, rarely obscurely 

spotted 13 

- Marginal teeth 1.5—5.5 mm long, usually dark-tipped; leaves various but never 

as thin-skinned, often dark green and/or clearly pale spotted 16 

13. Plants stemless; growing in Combretum-Terminalia woodland in fire prone areas 

and restricted to near Assosa 12. A.benishangulana 

- Plants with stems (occasionally without in A. ruspoliana); growing in Acacia- 

Commiphora woodland or in dry afromontane forest and grassland 14 

14. Stem suckering freely from base; leaves smelling strongly of mice when cut; 

marginal teeth minute but many and well defined; perianth yellow, up to 20 

mm long (found between 300 and 1450 m) 15 

- Stems branching dichotomously at apex within leaf rosette; leaves without such 

smell when cut; marginal teeth almost lacking, traces widely spaced; perianth 

red, 32—33 mm long (found between 2480—2700 m) 25. A. pulcherrima 

15. Plants stemless or, rarely, with stems to 50 cm long; inflorescence erect, long 

pedunculate, 100—200 cm high; bracts c. 3 mm long 13. A. ruspoliana 

- Plants with stout erect stems 1—2 m high; inflorescence spreading, 

short-pedunculate, up to 45 cm long; bracts c. 5 mm long 14. A. retrospiciens 

16. Leaves dark green with prominent white spots, skin thick so leaf hard textured 

17 

- Leaves unmarked, rarely grey green and obscurely spotted, skin thin or thick 

22 

17. Leaf surface smooth, glossy; bracts acuminate to acute, relatively 

inconspicuous 18 

- Leaf surface rugulose, rough to the touch; bracts ± obtuse, prominently white, 

scarious 18. A. rugosifolia 

18. Plants stemless or nearly so; inflorescence always branched 19 

- Plants with distinct slender stems to 20 cm long; inflorescence not branched 

46. A. vituensis 

19. Leaves always spotted, dark green, margin pale, only tips of teeth brown and 

horny; perianth glaucous pink or pale yellow to red; bracts 3—10 mm long 20 

- Leaves only occasionally spotted, bright, glossy green, with brown horny margin 

continuous between teeth at least in places; perianth red or bright yellow; 

bracts 9.5—15 mm long 19. A. harlana

ALOE 

49 

20. Marginal teeth 3—5.5 mm long; perianth 18—26 mm long, not glaucous, clearly 

striped 21 

- Marginal teeth 1—2.5 mm long; perianth 26—30 mm long, glaucous, obscurely 

striped 17. A. parvidens 

21. Perianth broadest at base, 17—20 mm long, pink 15. A. mcloughlinii 

- Perianth cylindrical to subclavate, (20—)23—25 mm long, yellow or orange 

(rarely grey red) 16. A. pirottae. 

22. Plants stemless or with stout, completely prostrate or pendent stems, rarely 

some old plants with short erect stems covered with persistent leaf bases 23 

- Plants soon developing obvious erect or ascending stems and eventually forming 

shrubs 36 

23. Inflorescence a much branched panicle with spreading, one sided (secund) 

racemes 24 

- Inflorescence with erect, radially symmetrical racemes, often little branched 

26 

24. Marginal teeth with minute brown tip only; perianth (23—)25—26(—32) mm long, 

not pale flecked, base truncate 25 

- Marginal teeth mostly dark brown, often with colour continuous along margin; 

perianth 19—23 mm long, white flecked (visible only in fresh material), base 

rounded 28. A. secundiflora. 

25. Plants only occasionally stemless; leaves deeply canaliculate, dull grey green 

36. A. gilbertii. 

- Plants nearly always stemless; leaves shallowly canaliculate towards the tip 

only, dull olive to brownish green 27. A. rivae 

26. Perianth cylindrical or clavate (widest towards tip), relatively slender 27 

- Perianth conical-trigonous, very fleshy, widest very near to the ± truncate base 

and prominently indented above so as to be ± 3-sided 26. A. trigonantha 

27. Flower buds cylindrical or nearly so 28 

- Flower buds distinctly clavate 35 

28. Plant suckering from base; leaves not or only slightly glaucous, margins with 

sharp teeth over 2 mm high; dead leaves brown 29 

- Plant often unbranched, branching when present dichotomously at tip within 

leaf rosette; leaves pale blue green, margins ± smooth (teeth widely spaced, 

less than 0.3 mm high), reddish at least in dry season; dead leaves dark purple 

25. A. pulcherrima

50 ALOACEAE 

29. Leaves spreading or recurved; inflorescences ascending, sometimes much 

branched, racemes less than 30 cm long; tepals without obviously pale margins 

(inland) 30 

- Leaves incurved or erect; inflorescences erect, little branched, racemes up to 

35 cm long; tepals with margins prominently pale so flower looks striped (near 

sea coast in Eritrea) 5. A. eumassawana 

30. Inflorescence with 1—6 racemes; perianth 35—40 mm long (plants of high 

altitudes, >2600 m, often growing on cliffs) 31 

- Inflorescence with 5 to many racemes; perianth 15—34 mm long (various 

altitudes, rarely if ever growing on cliffs) 32 

31. Outer perianth lobes ± free (in Tigray, Gonder and Gojam, and in Eritrea) 

23. A. steudneri 

- Outer perianth lobes all joined for 15—20 mm (in Shewa) 24. A. ankoberensis. 

32. Leaves with horny margin continuous between teeth at least in places; leaves 

glossy green, sometimes spotted; populations with a significant proportion of 

yellow flowered plants 33 

- Leaves with pale margin, only the marginal teeth horny brown or reddish; 

leaves often glaucous, never glossy nor spotted, except obscurely when 

seedlings; yellow flowered plants extremely rare 34 

33. Bracts 9.5—15 mm long (in Harerge) 19. A. harlana 

- Bracts 20—22 mm long (in Tigray and Welo) 20. A. monticola 

34. Bracts (8—)10—16(—20) mm long; leaves slightly glaucous; inflorescences with 

just one level of branching (in Eritrea, Tigray and Gonder) 21. A. percrassa 

- Bracts 3.5—6.5 (—8.5) mm long; leaves not glaucous; inflorescences often with 

two levels of branching (in Shewa, Gojam and Welo) 22. A. debrana 

35. Leaves spreading or recurved; bracts conspicuously white and scarious, longer 

than pedicels; buds erect till just before anthesis; perianth segments with 

distinctly raised rugose midribs 29. A. otallensis 

- Leaves erect or incurved; bracts inconspicuous, much shorter than pedicels; 

buds horizontal for most of their development; perianth segments smooth 

30. A. elegans 

36. Leaves up to 2 cm wide, ± linear; inflorescence a simple unbranched raceme 

45. A. jacksonii 

- Leaves 5 cm or more wide (if less than 5 cm wide, lanceolate, never linear; 

inflorescence usually much branched 37 

37. Perianth clavate, broadest near tip 38 

- Perianth cylindrical to cylindrical-trigonous 41 

38. Bracts 7—12 mm long; perianth 23—27(—33) mm long 39

ALOE 

- Bracts 3—6 mm long; perianth 17—22 mm long 40 

51 

39. Racemes 12—22 cm long; bracts 9—12 × 2.5—4 mm 32. A. adigratana 

- Racemes 5.5—8.5(—14) cm long; bracts 7—8 × 2 mm 33. A. sinana 

40. Leaves up to 60 cm long, often less, green, spotted whitish at least near base (in 

Eritrea, Tigray and Welo) 31. A. camperi 

- Leaves ca. 80 cm long, uniformly grey green, not spotted (in Gamo Gofa and 

Sidamo) 34. A. calidophila 

41. Inflorescences with 4 or more racemes 42 

- Inflorescence with up to 3 racemes; restricted to parts of the Blue Nile gorge 

system, near Debre Llibanos 37. A. schelpei. 

42. Dwarf plant ca. 30 cm long; leaves up to 18 cm long; marginal teeth hooked and 

pointing to leaf apex; restricted to SW Kefa bordering the Elimi triangle bordering 

Sudan 39. A. clarkei 

- Plant scandent, if erect more than 40 cm long; leaves > 25 mm long; marginal 

teeth absent to 2 mm long or if > 3 mm long, spreading, not hooked; widespread 

in central, southern and eastern Ethiopia 43 

43. Flowers arranged to one side (secund) or almost so; pedicel 5—8 mm long 44 

- Flowers arranged in all sides; pedicel 10—17 mm long 45 

44. Stems stout 5—7 cm wide; leaves 5—10 cm wide; marginal teeth 3 mm long, white 

with brownish tip 38. A. ghibensis 

- Stems slender, 1.8—2 cm wide; leaves 2—4 cm wide; marginl teeth < 1 mm long 

46 

45. Flowers arranged all to one side (secund); perianth pink, outer lobes open for 

10—12 mm long 42. A. welmelensis 

- Flowers mostly arranged to one side, not all (subsecund); perianth yellow, outer 

lobes open for 5-6 mm long 40. A. friisii 

46. Perianth 20—22 mm long; pedicel 8—12 mm long 47 

- Perianth 25—28 mm long; pedicel up to 17 mm long 48 

47. Stem diameter 0.5—1 cm wide; leaf teeth 0.5—1 mm long; racemes 3—4; flowers 

lax 1—3 flowers per cm 43. A. tewoldei 

- Stem diameter 3—4 cm wide; leaf teeth ca. 3 mm long; racemes 8—10; flowers 

dense 6—10 flowers per cm 41. A. yavellana 

48. Stems scandent, slender 3—5 m long, 1—2 cm wide; leaf teeth 1—2 mm long, 

whitish-pink; inflorescence with 4—5 racemes 44. A. elkerriana 

- Stems stout, mostly erect 50 cm to 2 m long, 5—7 cm wide; leaf teeth 3—6 mm 

long, pinkish to brownish; inflorescence with 6—25 racemes 49

52 ALOACEAE 

49. Leaves strongly recurved, impossible to dry flat, marginal teeth 5—6 per 10 cm of 

leaf margin; pedicels 12—17 mm long 35. A. megalacantha 

- Leaves only slightly recurved, relatively easy to dry flat, marginal teeth 7—12 per 

10 cm of leaf margin; pedicels 9—10 mm long 36. A. gilbertii 

Description 

Subspecies 

1. Aloe trichosantha Berger 

The specific epithet ‘trichosantha’ refers to the hairy 

(trichos-) flowers (anthos). The species was described by 

Berger in 1905. The type material was collected in the 

Ghin da valley between Asmera and Mitsiwa (Massawa) 

in Eritrea. 

This species belongs to a small group of Ethiopian/ 

Eritrean aloes (numbers 1–6) with pubescent or papillate 

flowers, a group to which A. vera might be related. The 

group includes: A. trichosantha, A. pubes cens, A. citrina, 

A. bertemariae, A. eumas sa wana, and A. schoelleri. A. 

trichosantha is distinguished from the other species in the 

group by its sharply reflexed bracts. Like A. bertemariae 

it has relatively short pedicels, only up to 8 mm long. A. 

bertemariae has leaves inrolled, spotted and with spines 

on the lower parts. 

Rosettes stemless, solitary or suckering to form groups. Leaves 

12–20 per rosette, 25–70 × 2.5–13.5 cm, suberect with slightly 

incurved tips, slightly canaliculate, dull grey green without spots in 

adult plants, juveniles densely pale spotted. Marginal teeth 4–12 per 

10 cm, 2 5 mm long with brown tip. Inflorescence up to 2 m high, 

erect, with 1–3(–4) racemes. Racemes 40–70 cm long, cylindricalconical, 

dense (2–3 flowers per cm). Bracts lanceolate, 10–19(–23) × 

4–8 mm, finely pubescent, sharply reflexed after flowering. Pedicels 

2.5–8(–11 in fruit) mm long. Perianth cylindricaltrigonous, curved 

slightly upwards towards tip, 20–30 mm long, 4.5–6.5(–7) mm 

wide when pressed, pale to bright pink with short, sometimes dense, 

white indumentum; outer lobes free for 6–9 mm. Capsule 19–23 × 

7.5–8 mm. Seeds 3angled, 4.5–6 mm long, brown to almost black 

with pale spots and narrow pale wings. 

The species is subdivided into two subspecies based on 

the density and length of the teeth along the leaf margin 

and the length of the flower. The differences between the 

subspecies are small, but consistent enough to justify 

subspecific rank. In our present knowledge, there is 

a wide gap between the distribution areas of the two 

subspecies. Thus the species should be looked for in this

Fig. 21. Aloe 

trichos antha ssp. 

trichos antha, 

from Shewa, 

near Sodere. 

ALOE 

53 

gap, particularly in the poorly known eastern escarpments 

of Ethi opia. 

1. Marginal teeth 8—12 per 10 cm, 4.5—5.5 mm long; perianth 20—23 

mm long. a. subsp. trichosantha 

- Marginal teeth 4—8 per 10 cm, 2—4 mm long; perianth (23—)25—30 

mm long. b. subsp. longiflora

54 ALOACEAE 

Aloe trichosantha 

ssp. trichosantha 

Aloe trichosantha 

ssp. longiflora 

Aloe pubescens 

Description 

Habitat and 

distribution 

a. subsp. trichosantha 

This subspecies grows in open dry bush land between 

900 and 1700 m in Tigray floristic region in Ethi opia 

and in Eritrea. It may also occur in the Sudan. The main 

flowering period is in the dry season, from February to 

May. 

b. subsp. longiflora Gilbert & Seb sebe 

The subspecific epithet ‘longi flora’ refers to the relatively 

long (longi) flowers (flo ra), at least compared to the 

other subspecies. It was described with the type ma terial 

collected west of Daletti in Harerge by Gilbert and 

Sebsebe in 1997. 

This subspecies is widespread in Ethiopia and grows 

abundantly in open deciduous bushland on volcanic 

rocks and alluvial soils between 1000 and 1950 m. It is 

not known anywhere else. The flowering period is almost 

through out the year, with records from August to May. 

2. Aloe pubescens Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘pubescens’ refers to the hairy 

inflorescence and flowers. It was described in 1957. The 

type material was collected near Shashamene in Shewa 

region and cultivated in Pretoria. 

This species belongs to a small group of Ethiopian/ 

Eritrean aloes (numbers 1–6) with pubescent or papillate 

flowers. It differs from its related species by its bracts, 

which are more than 5 mm wide. 

Rosettes stemless (in cultivation with stems to 30 cm long), usually 

suckering freely to form groups. Leaves c. 16, 35–45 × 6–13 cm, 

suberect with slightly recurved tips, grey green without markings 

(except in seedling plants). Marginal teeth 8–11 per 10 cm, 2–3.5 

mm long, upper half reddish-brown. Inflorescence 0.7–1.5 m high 

with 1–2(–3) racemes. Racemes 20–35 cm long, cylindricalconical, 

dense (3–5 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate-triangular, 15–21 × 6–14 

mm, acute. Pedicels 12–20 mm long. Perianth similar in form to that 

of Aloe trichosantha, 33–40 mm long, 4–5 mm wide when pressed, 

minutely pubescent, pink; outer lobes free for c. 12 mm. Capsule 21 

× 7.5 mm, ellipsoidal. Seeds ± blackish, 3 angled/ winged, 5 mm 

long, wing 1.2 mm wide, densely dark veined. 

The species grows along rocky stream banks, often in 

areas with remnants of Po do carpus forest, and along 

field margins, from 1800 to 2550 m in Shewa and Ha-

Fig. 22.Aloe 

pubescens, 

from near Kobo, 

Harerge floristic 

region. 

Notes 

ALOE 

55 

rerge floristic regions. The main flowering period is in 

the dry season, from February to May. 

Plants from the Harerge floristic region that belong to 

the species have somewhat narrower bracts and shorter 

pedicels than the Shashamene ones, but intermediates are 

found from north of Butajira in Shewa region. Hence, no 

proper subdivision of the species can be made.

56 ALOACEAE 

Aloe citrina 

Description 

Fig. 23. Aloe 

citrina, from 

near Dolo Odo, 

Sidamo floristic 

region. 

3. Aloe citrina Carter & Brandham 

The specific epithet ‘citrina’ refers to the lemonyellow 

(citrina) colour of the flo wer. It was described in 1983 

with the type material collected from Somalia. 

The species belongs to the small group of Ethiopian/ 

Eritrean aloes (numbers 1–6) with pubescent and papillate 

flowers. It is distinguished from the other members of the 

group except A. bertemariae by its prominently spotted 

leaves, the relatively long pedicels (more than 8 mm long), 

and the yellowish to greenish flowers. The grey-green to 

greenish yellow flowers and leaves without spines on the 

lower parts separates A. citrina from A. bertemariae. 

Rosettes stemless, solitary or in small groups. Leaves dense, ca. 

16, erect to slightly incurved, 36–60 × 8.5–12 cm, pale grey green 

with numerous pale spots often in ± transverse bands, canaliculate. 

Marginal teeth 5–9 per 10 cm, 1.5–3 mm long with brown tips. 

Inflorescence to 2 m high with 2–6 racemes. Racemes (25–)40–50 

cm long, cylindrical-conical, dense (2–5 flowers per cm). Bracts 

lanceolate-triangular, 8–14 × 3–3.5 (–4) mm, finely pubescent. 

Pedicel 8.5–15 mm long. Perianth similar in form to that of A. 

trichosantha, 26–34 mm long, 4–4.5 mm wide when pressed, grey


distribution 

Aloe bertemariae 

Fig. 24. Aloe 

bertemariae, 

from Guddis in 


region. Plate 

obtained from 

Kew Bulletin. 

ALOE 

57 

green to greenishyellow, tomentose; outer lobes free for 14–18 

mm. Capsule 22–24 mm long, cylindrical. 

A. citrina grows in open deciduous bush land on sandy 

soils from 275 to 1000 m in Sidamo region. It also occurs 

in Somalia and northern Kenya. The flowering is bimodal, 

in the rainy seasons from September to December and 

from May to June. 

4. Aloe bertemariae Sebsebe & Dioli 

The specific epithet ‘bertemariae’ is given in honour of 

Ms Berte Maria Ulvester, who is the wife of one of the 

authors of the species (Di oli), and who gave support for a 

botanical expedition in Ogaden. It was described in 2000 

with the type material collected from Guddis Village on 

the way to Imi in the Harerge floristic region.

58 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe eumassawana 

Description 

The species belongs to a small group of Ethiopian/ 


flowers. It is easily separated from other members of 

the group except A. citrina by its spotted leaves. It is 

distinguished from A. citrina, by its inrolled leaves that 

become tubular in dry conditions, 3–5 spines on the lower 

surface of the leaves, and the dark coral red perianth. 

Rosettes stemless, solitary or suckering to form small groups of 

3–4. Leaves 13–15, erect to slightly incurved, strongly inrolled, 

becoming tubular in dry condition, 50–65 × 8–9 cm, longitudinally 

striped and with profuse whitish green blotches. Marginal teeth 

4–6 per 10 cm, 1–2 mm long; lower surface of most leaves bearing 

3–5 spines. Inflorescence 1–2 m long, raceme simple, 50–80 cm 

long, cylindrical-conical, with 3 flowers per cm. Bracts triangular, 

acuminate at apex, whitish on the sides, 9–12 × 3–4 mm. Pedicel 

4–7 mm long. Perianth darkcoral red, cylindrictrigonous, 20–23 

mm long, c. 2.5 mm wide when pressed, minutely pubescent; outer 

lobes free for 1/3 of their length. 

The type locality in Harerge floristic region is in an area 

of Acacia woodland on sandy soil between 300 and 400 

m. It is so far not known from anywhere else. The main 

flowering period is from November to December. 

5. Aloe eumassawana Carter, Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘eumassawana’ refers to the true 

Massawa aloe (the single known wild locality for the 

species). The species was described in 1996 with the type 

material collected from Arkiko near Massawa in Eritrea. 

The species belongs to a small group of Ethiopian/ 


flowers. It is easily recognised from other members of the 

group by its short (18–21 mm long) perianth which is 

papillate, not pubescent. 

Rosettes stemless or nearly so, suckering to form large clusters. 

Leaves ca. 16, 45–50 × 7–18 cm, tips slightly incurved to slightly 

recurved, shallowly canaliculate, dull grey green and sometimes 

with a few pale spots. Marginal teeth 5–6(–7) per 10 cm, ca. 3 mm 

long, reddish-brown only at the tips. Inflorescence erect, 1.2–1.5 m 

high with 1–3 racemes. Racemes (15–)20–25 cm long, cylindricalconical, 

dense, 4–8 flowers per cm. Bracts 6.5–7 × 2.5–4 mm. 

Pedicels 3–4.5(–7) mm long. Perianth cylindrical trigonous, (18–) 

20–21mm long, ca. 7 mm wide when pressed, pale scarlet or orange 

with pale lobe margins; outer lobes free for 12–15 mm.

Fig. 25. Aloe eumassa wa na, from Arkiko (Hargigo), Massawa, Eritrea 


distribution 

Notes 

Aloe scholleri 

ALOE 

59 

In the wild, the species is known from a small area of 

coastal bushland with succulent euphorbias and cacti on 

sandy soil near sea level at Arkiko in the Massawa area, 

and on the adjacent Dahlak Islands of Eritrea. It is also 

recently found occuring in Djibouti. The main flowering 

pe riod is from November to March. 

The species was previously known by the name A. 

massawana which was described by Reynolds in 1959 

based on Tanzanian material. Reynolds believed the 

Tanzanian plants were introduced from the Red Sea coast 

of Eritrea. 

6. Aloe schoelleri Schweinfurth 

The specific epithet ‘schoelleri’ probably refers to 

Mr. Max Schoeller, an explorer who accompanied G. 

Schweinfurth on a trip to Eritrea in 1891. We assume 

Schwein furth wanted to acknowledge and honour the 

friendship by naming the species after him. The species 

was described in 1894, with the type material collected 

from the Ko haito Plateau in Eritrea. 

This is a species with inadequate information about its 

habit. It might be related to a small group of Ethiopian/

60 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 26. Aloe 

schoelleri, from 

Kohaito plateau, 

Eritrea. 

Description 


distribution 


flowers. The description of the inflorescence seems to 

indicate a relationship with A. trichosantha, but in A. 

trichos antha, the whole inflorescence is pubescent. In 

addition, the perianth segments are free to > 2/3 of their 

length. The shape of the peri anth might further suggest 

a relationship with A. steudneri (see below). Recently 

Gebrehiwot Medhanie & Dioli (2006) have found the 

species in the wild. 

Rosettes with stems c. 30 cm long and 8 cm thick in older plants and 

stemless in young ones. Leaves 40–52 × 9–14 cm. Marginal teeth 

rarely present. Inflorescence solitary, 50–60 cm long, raceme ca. 30 

cm long. Bracts large, rhomboidal to obovate, 14–17 × 9–10 mm, 

acute at the apex, papillate. Racemes densely crowded, pedicels in 

very young perianth parts short, immature ones ca. 10 mm long, 

reddish. Bracts and tepals are partly papillose. Mature flowers not 

known, but the perianth segments is free to more than > 2/3 of the 

length. 

The species is only known from the Ko haito Plateau in 

Eritrea, and occurs at altitudes of c. 2600 m. The flowering 

period is from February to April and may extend to July.

Aloe weloensis 

Fig. 27. Aloe 

weloensis, 

clultivated, 

original material 

obtained from 

Dessie, Welo 


7. Aloe weloensis Sebsebe 

ALOE 

61 

The species epithet, ‘weloensis’ refers to the “Welo 

floristic region” with its central town Dessie from where 

the type specimen was collected and known distribution 

of the species so far. The species is described in Kew 

Bull in 2010. 

A. weloensis a member of the group of aloes known 

as the ‘saponaria’ group (numbers 7–11) which have soft 

and spotted leaves, and a basal swelling of the perianth 

tube. A. weloensis is clearly distinguished from the other 

Ethiopian members of the group by the narrower perianth 

at the base.

62 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe macrocarpa 

Description 

Acaulescent, solitary or in clumps of 2–5. Leaves in rosettes up to 

35, 20–45 × 5–10 cm, with greenishwhite elongate spots, seen both 

above and below, more conspicuous below. Marginal spines, 1–2 

mm long, brownish-tipped, 10–12 per 10 cm length. Inflorescence 

solitary or two, 55–150 cm long, with 4–6 racemes; raceme 

cylindrical, 15–25 cm long, lax. Bracts white, ovate–acuminate, 2–5 

× 2 mm. Pedicel 10–13 mm. Perianth pinkishred, 21–23 mm long, 

base slightly swollen, truncate, 5–6 mm across; outer perianth parts 

free for 10–11 mm long; stamens and styles exerted 3–5 mm long at 

anthesis. Fruits 18–20 mm long. 

It grows on edges of roads and in disturbed areas between 

2440 and 2500 m. It is known so far only from a restricted 

area outside Dessie towards Addis in Welo floristic 

region. The main flowering period is between September 

and November in the wild. 

8. Aloe macrocarpa Todaro 

The specific epithet ‘macrocarpa’ refers to the large 

(macro-) fruit (carpa) size. The species was described in 

1875 based on material cultivated from seeds collected 

in Ethiopia by Schimper in 1870, probably from Tigray 

region. 

A. macrocarpa is a member of the group of aloes 

known as the ‘saponaria’ group (numbers 7–11) which 

have soft and spotted leaves, and a basal swelling of the 

perianth tube. A. macrocarpa is clearly distinguished 

from the other Ethiopian members of the group by the 

numerous pale spots on the leaves, which also have 

distinct dar ker longitudinal lines, the perianth with a 

markedly globose basal swelling and the large capsule 

(also found in A. lateritia). 

Rosettes stemless, rarely developing short erect stems in shaded 

sites, solitary or forming small groups. Leaves 16–20, (10– )20–35 

× 3–11.5 cm, very soft, green, usually with numerous pale spots, 

always with distinct darker longitudinal lines. Marginal teeth 10–24 

per 10 cm, 2–3 mm long with brown tips. Inflorescence erect, up 

to 100 cm high. Racemes (1–) 3–5(–7), (2–)4–22 cm long, lax to 

capitate. Bracts 6–20 × 2–4 mm. Fruiting pedicels 11–45 mm long. 

Perianth 19–30(–35) mm long, with a distinct globose basal swelling 

which is 4.5–7 mm wide when pressed, abruptly constricted into a 

subcylindrical limb 2.3–5 mm wide when pressed. Perianth lobes 

red with paler margins, very rarely yellow; outer lobes free for 5–6 

mm. Capsule cylindrical to ellipsoidal, 22–40 × 12–15 mm.

Fig. 28. Aloe 

macrocarpa, 

from between 

Harar and Jijiga, 


region. 


distribution 

Aloe lateritia 

ALOE 

63 

The species grows in open grassland, often between 

clusters of evergreen bushes, on rocky slopes to plateau 

areas with darker soil between 1400 and 2200(–3000) 

m in many parts of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is also 

widespread from Somalia west to Benin. Plants from 

high altitudes in Arsi region in Ethiopia are much smaller 

than plants growing at lower altitudes, and they also have 

more brightly colored capitate inflorescences. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from October to April. 

9. Aloe lateritia Engler 

The specific epithet ‘lateritia’ refers to the ‘dark brick red’ 

flowers. The species was described in 1895 with the type 

material collected in the Moshi District in Tanzania.

64 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Aloe ellenbeckii 

The species is a member of the ‘sapo na ria’ group 

(numbers 7–11). It is closely related to, if not identical 

with, A. macro carpa. A. lateritia is vaguely distinguished 

from A. macrocarpa by the larger vegetative and 

inflorescence parts. 

Closely related to A. macrocarpa, but rather larger. Leaves up 

to 60 cm long with marginal teeth 8–10 per cm, 2–3 mm long; 

inflorescence to 130 cm long; racemes lax to capitate; capsules 

37–40 mm long. 

The species grows in open deciduous bush land at about 

1550 m in Sidamo floristic region. It is also known 

from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zaire. The 

main flowering period in Ethiopia is from September to 

November. 

A. lateritia shows a very wide variation in the density of 

the inflorescence, from rather lax racemes to dense heads. 

Plants with capitate inflorescences have been proposed to 

belong to a separate spe cies (A. graminicola), but the type 

material of A. lateritia has similar dense inflorescences, 

and there is a continuity of variation between the 

extremes. Two subspecies have been recognized in 

Tropical East Africa; only specimens referred to subsp. 

graminicola occur in Ethiopia. The whole complex 

including A. macrocarpa is taxo nomically difficult and 

needs to be revised throughout the range from Ethiopia 

to South Africa and from East to West Africa. 

10. Aloe ellenbeckii Berger 

The specific epithet ‘ellenbeckii’ is given in honour of 

the German collector, Ellen beck from whose collection 

the type of the species was designated. The species was 

described in 1905, based on type material collected from 

the area at the confluence of Dera and Juba Rivers in 

Somalia in 1905. A. dumetorum, described by Mathew 

and Brandham from Kenya, is conspecific with A. ellenbeckii. 

A. ellenbeckii belongs to the ‘sapona ria’ group of 

aloes (numbers 7–11) with spotted leaves and a basal 

swelling of the perianth. It is distinguished from the rest 

of the group by its narrowly linearoblong leaves, up to 

2.5 cm wide, and by the high density of short marginal

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Aloe kefaensis 

Description 

teeth (28–40 per 10 cm less than 1.5 mm long). 

ALOE 

65 

Rosettes stemless, solitary or suckering to form clumps. Leaves 

5–10, up to 26 × 1.6–2.6 cm, narrowly oblong, canaliculate to 

cylindrical, green with numerous pale spots. Marginal teeth 22– 

25 per 10 cm, (0.5–)1.5 mm long, white, sometimes with minute 

dark tips. Inflorescence and perianth similar to A. macrocarpa. 

Inflorescence 50–75 cm high, racemes (1–)2–3, to 20 cm long, lax. 

Bracts (5–)11 × (1.5–)3 mm. Pedicel (7–)20 mm long. Perianth 

(20–)28 mm long, base 6 mm wide, limb 4.5–6 mm wide. 

The species grows in partial shelter of bushes in deciduous 

bushland on limestone at about 1600 m, east of Negele in 

Sidamo flotistic region. It also occurs in northern Kenya. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from October 

to November. 

Only a few Ethiopian plants have been observed in the 

wild, and there is a need for more field studies. 

11. Aloe kefaensis Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘kefaensis’ refers to the region ‘Kefa’, 

where the only known naturally occurring populations 

are found. This species is widely cultivated in Addis 

Ababa and Jimma. It was descri bed in 1997. The type 

material was collected SW of Gibe (Ghibe) River in Kefa 


The species is a member of the ‘sapo na ria’ group 

(numbers 7–11). It is distinguished from the other 

members of the group by the leaves being much less 

fleshy, the spots on the leaves being much more sparse or 

even absent, and the basal swelling of the perianth being 

less distinctly globose. 

Rosettes stemless. Leaves 35–45 × 8–11 cm, less fleshy than usual 

for the genus, green with obscure longitudinal dark lines and few 

or no pale spots. Marginal teeth 12–19 per 10 cm, 3–4.5 mm long, 

pale, sometimes with minute dark tip. Inflorescence c. 1.5 m high, 

little branched. Racemes 30–35 cm long, lax (2– 3 flowers per cm). 

Bracts 11–14 × 4.5–6 mm. Pedicels 16–22 mm long. Perianth as in 

A. macrocarpa, but with basal swelling not so sharply delimited and 

not clearly globose, 28–32 mm long, base ca. 6 mm wide and limb 

4.5–5 mm wide when pressed.

66 ALOACEAE 


distribution 

Aloe benishangula 

Fig. 29. Aloe 

benishangulana, 

from Beni- 

Shangul in 


region. 

The species grows in wooded grassland at around 1800 

m in Kefa region. It is so far not known anywhere else. 

The specimen from Gonder, which was thought to belong 

to this species when the ‘Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea’ 

was written, is now confirmed to belong to another 

species, A. tri gon antha. The main flowering period is 

from September to November, occasionally also from 

February to June. 

12. Aloe benishangulana Sebsebe & Tesfaye 

The species epithet, ‘benishangulana’ refers to the 

“BenishangulGumuz Region” from where the species is 

known from. 

This species and A. ghibensis are unique among the 

Ethiopian Aloes growing in Combretum-Terminalia 

woodland and adapted to occasional fire burning. 

The species is recognized from a related species, A. 

schweinfurthii Bak. known from Southern Sudan, N 

Uganda and N Zaire extending to west Africa (Ghana) by 

the leaves without spots, weak whitish marginal spines 

1–15 mm long, bracts c. 10 × 4 mm, pedicel 10–11 

mm long and capsule 25–27 mm long. In contrast, A. 

schweinurthii has spotted leavesspines 3–5 mm long 

pedicel c. 13 mm long and capsule 17–20 mm long. It is 

described in Kew Bull. in 2010.

ALOE 

67 

Description Acaulescent, growing in rock crevices or “rock shelters” suckering; 

rosette coming out between rock crevices or from rock bottoms 

that partly shelters the lower parts of the aloe plant; root system 

massive. Leaves, laxly rosulate, 20–46 × 1–4.5 cm; leaf surface dull 

green with smooth surface. Marginal teeth 1–1.5 mm, white, 3–8 

mm apart or 10–12 per 10 cm length. Inflorescence 50–60 cm long, 

simple raceme cylindrical, c. 28 cm long, Bracts ovate, 8–10 × 4 

mm, acuminate at the apex. Pedicel 8–10 mm long; Perianth bright 

scarlet, paler to almost white towards mouth, 37–40 mm, base 

truncate, 8 mm across; outer tepals free for 10 mm long. Capsule 

25–27 mm long, each part 25–27 × 10 mm. 


distribution 

Aloe ruspoliana 

Description 

The species grows in Bamboo (Oxytenanthera abyssinica) 

thicket with open rocky outcrops or partially 

covered by slanting rocks giving them protection during 

fire season between 1490 and 1500 m close to Assosa in 

Wellega floristic region. The general area where it grows 

experiences natural and man made fire regimes. The main 

flowering period is between April and August. 

13. Aloe ruspoliana Baker 

The specific epithet ‘ruspoliana’, refers to a Roman prince 

[“Principe Romano”], Count Eugenio Ruspoli. He was 

the leader of an expedition in 1893 together with another 

Italian, Dr. Domenico Riva, to Southern Ethiopia. The 

type of the species was designated from one of Ruspoli’s 

collections, and the species was named in honour of him. 

According to a note written by J. B. Gillett in the Kew 

Library, Ruspoli was killed by an elephant near the Sagan 

River in the Gamo Gofa floristic region on 4 Dec. 1893. 

The species was described in 1898. The type material was 

collected between Mil mil and Imi in Harerge Region. 

The species is one of the two Aloe species (along with 

A. retrospiciens) whose leaves smell strongly of mice 

when freshly cut and whose flowers are bright yellow. 

It is a very distinct species, easily recognised by the soft 

yellow green leaves with minute marginal teeth. 

Rosettes stemless or with decumbent or ascending stems to 50 cm 

long, suckering to form groups, often quite large. Leaves ca. 16, 37– 

60 × 7.6–12 cm, suberect to spreading, very soft, pale yellowishgreen, 

sometimes obscurely pale spotted, not canaliculate. Marginal 

teeth 0.3–0.7 mm long, 14–30(–60) per 10 cm. Inflorescence long 

pedunculate, 1.2–2 m high with 12 or more racemes. Racemes 2 4 

cm long, subcapitate. Bracts c. 3 × 1.5 mm. Pedicels 5 mm long. 

Perianth cylindrictrigonous, 13–16 mm long, 4–5 mm wide when 

pressed, yellow; outer lobes free for 5–6 mm.

68 ALOACEAE 

Fig 30. Aloe 

ruspoliana, from 

Sof Omar in Bale 



distribution 

The species grows on open rocky hillsides in Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland between 300 and 1000 m in 

Sidamo, Bale and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia. It 

is also known from Kenya. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from September to December.

Aloe retrospiciens 

Description 

14. Aloe retrospiciens Reynolds & Bally 

ALOE 

69 

The specific epithet ‘retrospiciens’, refers to the flowers 

lying backwards (retro-) on the racemes/spikes (spiciens). 

The species was described in 1958 with the type material 

collected near Darburruk in Northern Somalia. 

The species is one of the two Aloe species (including 

the previous species, A. ruspoliana) whose leaves smell 

strongly of mice when freshly cut and whose flowers 

are bright yellow. It is a very distinct species, easily 

recognised by the thick erect stems up to 2 m high and 

the soft leaves with minute very close spaced marginal 

teeth. 

Berger described a taxon, A. ruspoliana var. dra cae niformis, 

from Ogaden in 1908. This taxon clearly belongs 

to A. retro spiciens. The description of this variety under 

A. ruspoliana clearly indicates the close relationship of 

the two species. 

Succulent shrub, stem erect, 1–2 m high, 3–4 cm thick, branching 

from base. Leaves rather lax, spreading to gently recurved, 25–32 

× 5–5.5 cm, greygreen, sometimes flushed red, smelling of mice 

when cut. Marginal teeth (24–)33–34 per 10 cm, minute, white, c. 

1 mm long. Inflorescence c. 45 cm long, divaricately branched with 

8–11 racemes. Racemes 2–5 cm long, lax (2–4 flowers per cm). 

Bracts c. 5 × 2–2.5 mm, scarious. Pedicels 7–8 mm long. Perianth 

Fig. 31. Aloe retrospiciens, from near Dire Dawa, Harerge floristic region.

70 ALOACEAE 


distribution 

Aloe mcloughlinii 

Fig. 32. Aloe 

mcloughlinii, 

from Dire Dawa, 


region. 

cylindricaltrigonous, 15–20 mm long, 5–7 mm wide when pressed, 

pale yellow; outer segments free for 6–7(– 10) mm. 

The species is locally abundant in open deciduous 

bushland on limestone escarpment around 1000 m in 

Afar, Bale, and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia. It 

also occurs in northern Somalia. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from March to April, occasionally 

also from September to December. 

15. Aloe mcloughlinii Christian 

The specific epithet ‘mcloughlinii’ is given in honour of 

major A. J. McLoughlin from whose collection the type

Description 


distribution 

Aloe pirottae 

ALOE 

71 

of the species was designated. The species was described 

in 1951 on the basis of living material collected near Dire 

Dawa in Harerge region in Ethiopia and cultivated in 

Pretoria, South Africa. 

The species is a member of group of spotted aloes 

(numbers 15–18. Unlike the ‘saponaria’ group, this 

group is characterised by the leaves having tough skins 

and not having a swollen perianth base. A. mcloughlinii 

is distinguished from the rest of the group by its shorter 

(less than 20 mm long), pink perianth. 

Rosettes solitary or in small groups, stemless or nearly so. Leaves 

40–50 × 7–8 cm, ascending to spreading with recurved tips, upper 

surface convex, dark green with numerous elongated pale green 

spots; marginal teeth 7–10 per 10 cm, 3–4.5 mm long, with small 

reddish brown tips. Inflorescences 100–120 cm high, branching 

above middle, with 6–11 ± erect racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 

11–20 cm long, lax (2–3 flowers per cm), sometimes ± secund on 

branches. Bracts ovate, 3–6 × 2–3 mm. Pedicels 5–9.5(–12) mm 

long. Perianth cylindrical to slightly conical, 17–20 mm long, 5–7.5 

mm wide when pressed, ± truncate at base, pink with paler lobe 

margins so the flower looks as if it has stripes; outer lobes free for 

10–16 mm. 

The species grows on flat, stony ground with disturbed 

Acacia bushland, often together with A. megalacantha 

and large Sansevieria species, between 1060 and 1250 

m in Harerge floristic region. It is so far not known 

anywhere else. The main flowering period is from April 

to May. 

16. Aloe pirottae Berger 

The specific epithet ‘pirottae’ is given in honour of Prof. 

Pietro Romualdo Pirotta, who was a Professor of botany 

in Rome. The species was described in 1905, based 

on type material collected from the Sagan River in the 

border area between Gamo Gofa and Sidamo florisitc 

region in Ethiopia. 

A. pirottae is a member of the group of spotted aloes 

(numbers 15–18) with a tough skin on the leaves. The 

species is distinguished from the closely related species, 

A. mcloughlinii, by the cylindrical to subclavate perianth 

which is (20–)23–25 mm long and yellow or orange, 

rarely reddish.A. mcloughlinii has a pink perianth, shorter 

than 20 mm.

72 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Rosettes forming small groups, stemless or nearly so. Leaves 45–60 

× 6.5–13 cm, spreading with recurved tips, shallowly canaliculate 

at least near tip, dark green with many elongated pale green spots. 

Marginal teeth 7–10 per cm, (3–)4–5.5 mm long, often curved, brown 

tipped. Inflorescence with up to 28 mostly ± spreading branches. 

Racemes cylindrical, often secund, 7–33 cm long, lax (2–4 flowers 

per cm). Bracts ovate, 3–10 × 2–5 mm, acute or acuminate. Pedicel 

3–9(–12 in young fruit) mm long. Perianth cylindrical or clavate, 

20–28 mm long, 4–5 mm wide when pressed, yellow, orange or 

sometimes red, ± striped; outer lobes free for 6–12 mm. Capsule 

small, c. 15 mm long. Seeds ca. 4 mm long, ± 3 winged, brown with 

white cistoliths and pale wings. 

The species grows in open Acacia woodland, sometimes 

on dark soil between 1300 and 1820 m in Gamo Gofa, 

Sidamo, Bale, and Harerge floristic regions. It is so far 

not known anywhere else. The main flowering period is 

from November to January. 

The species shows clear regional variation. Plants from 

Harerge have distinctly secund racemes, acute bracts 

which are 4–6 × 2–3 mm, cylindrical perianths, 23–25 

mm long, which are yellow (occasionally orange or red 

Fig. 33. Aloe pirottae, from near Bitata, Sidamo floristic region.

Aloe parvidens 

Description 


distribution 

ALOE 

73 

and striped). The plants from Bale have racemes that are 

only obscurely secund; the bracts are acute, 8–10 × 2.5–5 

mm; the perianths are cylindrical, 21–28 mm long, pale 

yellow. The plants from eastern Sidamo have racemes that 

are not secund; the bracts are acuminate, 10 × 4 mm; the 

perianths are distinctly clavate, 24 mm long, obscurely 

striped ‘grey red’. The plants from western Sida mo and 

Gamo Gofa have racemes that are subsecund; acute 

bracts, 3 × 2 mm; a sub clavate perianth which is 20 mm 

long, and so far the colour is unknown. This variation 

needs more field observations. 

17. Aloe parvidens Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘parvidens’, refers to the small sized 

(parvi-) teeth (dens) on the leaf margin. The species was 

described in 1992. The type material was collected SE of 

Filtu in Sidamo floristic region in Ethiopia. 

The species is a member of the group of spotted 

aloes (numbers 15–18) with tough skins. A. parvidens is 

distinguished from the rest of the group by the small sized 

marginal teeth (1–2.5 mm long) and the long perianth, up 

to 30 mm long. 

Rosettes solitary or in small groups, stemless or nearly so. Leaves 

spreading with recurved tips, 25–42 × 4.5–6.5(–9) cm, dark green to 

almost brown with many elliptical pale spots; marginal teeth 8–13 

per 10 cm, 1–2.5 mm long with minute brown tips. Inflorescence up 

to 1(–1.2) m high, with 4–8 ± erect racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 

sometimes subsecund, 9–20 cm long, lax (2–3 flowers per cm). 

Bracts 5–6 × 3–4.5 mm, acute. Pedicels 5.5–12 mm long. Perianth 


pinkishred, sometimes ± glaucous with paler margins to lobes; 

outer lobes free for 6–10 mm. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commi phora bushland 

or woodland in relatively flat areas, often hidden under 

smaller bushes between 1200 and 1450 m in Sidamo and 

Bale floristic regions. It also occurs in Kenya and Somalia. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to 

May, occasionally also from September to October.

74 ALOACEAE 

Aloe rugosifolia 

Description 

Fig. 34. Aloe 

rugosifolia, 

a cultivated 

plant originally 

collected near 

Yabello, Sidamo 


18. Aloe rugosifolia Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘rugosifolia’ refers to the wrinkled 

(rugosus) leaves (folia) surface. The species was 

described in 1992. The type material was collected in 

Northern Kenya. 

The species is a member of the group of spotted aloes 

(numbers 15–18) with tough leaf skins. It is distinguished 

from the rest of the group by the distinctive finely rugose 

to rugulose leaf surfaces, a character which is rather 

unique among the Aloe species occurring in tropical 

Africa and Arabia. 

Rosettes solitary or in small groups, stemless. Leaves spreading, 

recurved in young plants, later erect to incurved, 20–40 × 5.5–8 

cm, finely rugose, green with clearly defined pale spots. Marginal 

spines 10–16 per 10 cm, 4–5 mm long, brown, sometimes almost 

contiguous. Inflorescence 1.5–1.8 m high, branched with up to 

10 racemes. Racemes 10–20 cm long, cylindrical or conical, 7–8 

flowers per cm. Bracts 9–11(–13) × 4–8 mm, acute, scarious. 

Pedicels 5–7 mm long. Perianth subclavate to cylindrical, 25–28


distribution 

Aloe harlana 

Fig. 35. Aloe 

harlana, from 

near Harla, 


region. 

ALOE 

75 

mm long, c. 5 mm wide when pressed, pink; outer lobes free for ca. 

half length. Capsule 17 mm long. Seed 4 mm long, dark brown with 

2 broad white scarious wings to ca. 4 mm wide overall. 

The species grows in shelter of bushes in Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland between 1350 and 1700 m in 

Sidamo floristic region in Ethiopia and also in Northern 

Kenya. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

July to September. 

19. Aloe harlana Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘harlana’, refers to the locality 

‘Harla’ SE of Dire Dawa in Harerge floristic region, the 

locality of the type specimen. The species was described 

in 1957. 

Aloe harlana and the next species A. monticola 

constitute a group of aloes recognised by a brownish 

cartilagenous tissue along the leaf margins, usually 

forming a continuous edge between the spines, and by a 

bright yellow to red perianth. A. harlana is distingished 

from A. monticola by its smaller bracts (9.5–15 mm long) 

in comparison to the larger bracts (20–22 mm long) in 

the latter.

76 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe monticola 

Mostly stemless but eventually developing a stem up to 30 cm long. 

Leaves numerous, 40–50 × 8–12 cm, glossy darkgreen, sometimes 

spotted when young, with a horny layer along the margin which 

usually is contiguous between the spines. Marginal spines 8–10 per 

10 cm, 4–5 mm long, dark-brown. Inflorescence with 3–8 racemes. 

Racemes subcapitate to cylindrical, 4–9(–20) cm, densely flowered. 

Bracts ovate, 9.5–15 × 3–6.5 mm, acuminate. Pedicels 11.5–18(–28 

in fruit) mm. Perianth cylindricaltrigonous, 22–28 mm long, 4.5–7 

mm wide when pressed, bright yellow or red; outer lobes free for 

10–15 mm. Capsule 20–25 × 6–9 mm. 

The species grows on sparsely vegetated slopes, often on 

limestone, between 1650 and 2100 m in Harerge floristic 

region. It is so far not known anywhere else. The main 

flowering period is in the rainy season from April to May, 

sometimes also from September to October. 

20. Aloe monticola Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘monticola’ refers to the habitat of the 

species: mountain (mon ti) dweller (cola). The species 

was described in 1957 from type material collected near 

Maychew in Tigray floristic region. 

A. monticola and the previous species, A. harlana, 

belong to a group of aloes (numbers 19 & 20) which have 

a brownish cartilagenous tissue along the leaf margins, 

usually forming a continuous edge between the spines, 

and a bright yellow to red perianth. A. monticola is 

distingished from A. harlana by the larger bracts (20–22 

Fig. 36. Aloe monticola, from near Dessie, Welo floristic region.

Description 


distribution 

Aloe percrassa 

Description 

ALOE 

77 

mm long) in comparison to smaller bracts (9.5–15 mm 

long) in the latter. 

Stemless, usually solitary. Leaves many, 43–52(–60) × 12–13.5(– 

18.5) cm, gently recurved, slightly canaliculate, glossy olivegreen, 

with a horny layer along the margin which usually is contiguous 

between the spines. Marginal spines 9–16 per 10 cm, 3 5 mm long, 

brown. Inflorescence with 3–6(–8) ra cemes. Racemes subcapitate to 

conical, 6–18 cm long, densely flowered. Bracts lanceolate, 20–30 

× 6–7 cm, acute. Pedicels 12–18(–20+ in fruit) mm long. Perianth 


usually yellow, occa si onaly bright red; outer lobes free for 12–14 

mm. 

The species grows on steep bare mountain slopes between 

2400 and 2460 m in Tigray and Welo floristic regions in 

northern Ethiopia. It is so far not known anywhere else. 

The main flowering period is in the dry season, from 

February to April. 

21. Aloe percrassa Todaro 

The specific epithet ‘percrassa’ refers to the very (per) 

thick (crassus) nature of the leaves and stems. The 

species was described in 1875 based on a plant grown in 

St. Petersburg (Leningrad) from seeds sent by Schimper 

from Tigray floristic region in Ethiopia. The taxon has 

also been known as A. abyssinica var. per cras sa Baker. 

A. percrassa is in a group of aloes (A. debrana, A. 

percrassa, A. rivae and A. trigonantha, numbers 21– 

22 and 26–27) which is stemless (but some old plants 

developing thick, prostrate stems), and which often has 

secondarily branching inflorescences, with up to more 

than 50 racemes. A. percrassa is distinguished from the 

rest of the group by the large bracts, which are 10–16(– 

20) mm long. 

Succulent herb, suckering from base to form small groups, 

commonly stemless but sometimes developing erect or decumbent 

stem up to 80 cm long, 10–15 cm thick. Leaves crowded, 40–55 × 

13–15 cm or larger, glaucousgreen or greygreen, often suffused 

red, old leaves brown when drying. Marginal spines 6–16 per 10 

cm, (2–)3–5 mm long, with pale pink to brown tips. Inflorescence 

60–80 cm high with 5–12 racemes. Racemes cylindrical to conical, 

6.5–25 cm long, with 2–5 flowers per cm. Bracts ovate acuminate, 

(8–)10–16–20) × (2.5–)3–6 mm. Pedicels 11–17(–20) mm long. 

Perianth cylindrical, 17–23 mm long, 4–6 mm wide pressed; outer 

lobes free for 5–7 mm.

78 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 37. Aloe 

percrassa, 

between Edago 

Hamus and 

Gundo Gundo, 


region. 


distribution 

Aloe debrana 

The species grows in sparsely vegetated rocky slopes 

and outcrops between 2100 and 2700 m in Tigray and 

Gonder regions in Rthiopia and also in Eritrea. It is so 

far not known anywhere else. The main flowering period 

is from September to October, so me times also in March 

to April. 

22. Aloe debrana Christian 

The specific epithet ‘debrana’ refers to the locality (Debre 

Berhan in the Shewa Region) of the plant on which 

the description of the species was based. In Amharic 

language Debre Berhan refers to the ‘place of the light’, 

debre meaning place and berhan meaning light. The 

living plant was collected by McLoughlin, cultivated in 

Pretoria, and the species was described in 1947.

ALOE 

Fig. 38. Aloe debrana, from top of Blue Nile Gorge, Shewa floristic region. 

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

79 

A. debrana belongs to a group of aloes (numbers 21–22 

and 26–27) which often ex hibit secondary branching (up 

to 50 racemes or more) and which usually are stemless, 

but some old plants develop thick, prostrate stems. A. 

debrana is distingui shed from the rest of the group by 

the small bracts 3–6.5(–8.5) mm long. 

Succulent herb, suckering from base to form small groups, mostly 

stemless but some old plants develop thick, prostrate stems. Leaves 

in a very dense rosette, spreadingrecurved, 25–60 × 7.5–15 cm, 

dull green, old leaves brown when drying. Marginal teeth 7–10 

(–14) per 10 cm, 2–4 mm long, with red tips. Inflorescence ca. 100 

cm long, compoundly branched; racemes 8–50. Racemes capitate 

to cylindrical, 5–15 cm long, lax or dense (4–9 flowers per cm). 

Bracts ovatetriangular, 3–6.5(–8.5) × 1.5–3 mm, scarious. Pedicels 

10–15(–17 in fruit) mm long. Perianth cylindrical, 17–30 × 4–6 mm 

when pressed; outer lobes free for 5–10 mm. 

The species commonly grows in areas of grassland on thin 

soil overlying basalt, usually on gentle slopes between 

2000 and 2700 m in Shewa, Gojam and Welo floristic 

re gions. It is so far not known anywhere else. The main 

flowering period is in the dry season, from December to 

February. 

There are two forms of the species. The first form has 

relatively small perianths (18–22 mm long) and bracts 

(3–5 mm long), while the second has larger perianths

80 ALOACEAE 

Aloe steudneri 

(24–30 mm long) and bracts (4–6.5 mm long). The 

second form was described as A. berhana by Reynolds 

in 1957 from Debre Berhan area in Shewa Region. The 

presence of these two forms almost side by side in some 

sites and the continuous variation in these traits give 

reason to treat these plants as one variable species. 

23. Aloe steudneri Schweinfurth 

The specific epithet ‘steudneri’ is given in honour of Dr. 

Steudner, who collected the plant material on which the 

description of the species was based. It was described by 

Schweinfurth in 1894 based on type material collected 

from the Semien Mountains in Gonder region in 

northwestern Ethiopia. 

A. steudneri is in a group of aloes (A. ankoberensis, 

A. pulcherrima and A. steud neri, numbers 23–25) which 

usually have pendent or prostrate stems, a Ushaped 

peduncle and a long perianth (30–40 mm). They grow on 

cliffs in high altitude mountain areas. The outer lobes of 

the perianth of A. steudneri are free almost to the base, 

a character which separates it from the other species of 

the group. This feature is almost unique among the aloes 

occuring in the region. 

Fig. 39. Aloe steudneri, from the Semien Mountains, Gonder floristic region.

Description 


distribution 

Aloe ankoberensis 

Fig. 40. Aloe 

ankoberensis, 

from Debre Sina, 

Shewa floristic 

region. 

ALOE 

81 

Stemless or with short decumbent stem. Leaves very numerous, 

up to 50–60 × 10–15 cm, slighly recurved, blue or greygreen 

sometimes suffused with red, not spotted. Marginal teeth 4–12 per 

10 cm, 1.5–3(–4) mm long, reddish. Inflorescence few-branched, 

1–5 racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 11–35 cm long, dense. Bracts 

ovatelanceolate, 11–15(–28) × 6–8 mm. Pedicels 8–15(–17 in fruit) 

mm long. Perianth cylindrical, (30–)35–40 mm long, 6–9 mm wide 

when pressed, pale to orangered; outer lobes ± free to base. 

The species grows on very steep slopes and cliff faces, 

sometimes where these are wet seasonally; between 

2600 and 3150 m in Tigray, Gonder and Gojam floristic 

regions in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It is so far not known 

anywhere else. The main flowering period is from August 

to October. 

24. Aloe ankoberensis Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘ankoberensis’, refers to the place, 

Ankober in Shewa region where the type collection was 

made by Mrs Jonquil Ash. The species was described in 

1997. 

A. ankoberensis belongs to a group of aloes (numbers 

23–25) which usually have pendent or prostrate stems, 

a Ushaped peduncle and a long perianth (30–40 mm). 

They grow on cliffs in high altitude mountainous areas. 

A. ankoberensis is distinguished from A. steudneri by 

the outer lobes of the perianth being free only in the 

upper half (instead of almost to the base). In addition, A.

82 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe pulcherrima 

Fig. 41. Aloe 

pulcherrima, 

from Debre 

Libanos, Shewa 

floristic region 

(the plants in the 

background are 

A. debrana). 

ankober ensis differs from A. pul cherrima by the leaves 

having 2–3 mm long marginal spi nes, while marginal 

teeth are almost absent in A. pulcherrima. 

Pendent shrub, mostly unbranched, stem up to 6 m long, hanging 

down cliffs. Leaves numerous, dense, 20–30 × 7–17.5 cm, dull 

greyish to bluishgreen. Marginal spines 7–9 per 10 cm, 2–3 mm 

long, pale, often with minute dark reddish brown tips. Inflorescence 

with 1–6 racemes; peduncle ± Ushaped. Racemes cylindrical, 

6–18 cm long, dense. Bracts ovatelanceolate, 14–23(–25) × 5–6.5 

mm, with acute tips. Pedicels (6–)10–25(–30 in fruit) mm. Perianth 

cylindrical, 35–40 mm long, 6–10 mm wide when pressed, bright 

orange red; outer lobes free for 12–22 mm. Capsule 28–30 mm 

long. Seeds ± 3 sided with winged margins ca. 0.5 mm wide, 4 mm 

long overall, dark brown with pale round spots. 

The species grows on steep rocky slopes and cliff faces, 

often near seasonally running water between 3000 and 

3500 m in Shewa floristic region. It is so far not known 

anywhere else. The main flo wering period is from 

October to February. 

25. Aloe pulcherrima Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘pulcherrima’, refers to the beauty 

(pulcher) of the plant, with bright red flowers and the 

nonspiny pale bluegreen to glaucous leaves. The species 

was described in 1997, based on type material collected 

near Addis Ababa. 

A. pulcherrima belongs to a group of aloes (numbers 

23–25) which usually have pendent or prostrate stems, 

a Ushaped peduncle and a long perianth (30–40) long. 

They grow on cliffs in mountaineous areas at high 

altitudes. A. pulcherrrima is recognised by the pale blue

Description 


distribution 

Aloe trigonantha 

Description 

ALOE 

83 

green leaves with fine distinct longitudinal lines and by 

almost lacking marginal teeth. 

Prostrate or pendent shrub, mostly unbranched, stem up to 1 m 

long, ca. 8 cm thick, sometimes branching dichotomously within 

leaf rosette, especially when cultivated. Leaves 35–50 in dense 

rosette, arcuate, up to 50 × 12 cm, pale blue green, slightly glaucous 

(turning purple when old), with fine but distinct longitudinal lines 

and, especially in the dry season, with red margins, leaf sap becomes 

purple when exposed to air. Marginal teeth almost obsolete, up to 

3 per 10 cm, 0.2–0.3 mm long, hardly visible. Inflorescence at first 

descending, then ascending so it becomes ± Ushaped, branched 

with 3–6(–11) erect racemes. Racemes 12–28 cm long, lax (3–5 

flowers per cm). Bracts ovate, 8–9(–15) × 7–8 mm, acuminate, 

rather fleshy. Pedicels 8–12 mm long. Perianth cylindrical, 32–33 

mm long, 6–8.5 mm wide when pressed, red; outer lobes free for 

c. 20 mm. 

The species grows on steep basalt slopes or cliffs with 

sparse cover of evergreen bush land between 2500 and 

2750 m in Gonder, Gojam, Welo, and Shewa floristic 

regions. It is so far not known anywhere else. It occurs 

in a very sporadic manner, mainly on cliffs, and almost 

always in inaccessible places. The main flowering period 

is from July to September. 

26. Aloe trigonantha Leach 

The specific epithet ‘trigonantha’ refers to the threeangled 

(trigonus) flower (an thos). The species was 

described in 1971 from a plant collected by Macleay in 

an area between Bahir Dar and Gonder in Gon der floristic 

region and cultivated in Pretoria. 

A. trigonantha belongs to a group of aloes (numbers 

21–22 and 26–27) which often has secondary branching 

(up to 50 racemes or more) and which is usually stemless, 

but some old plants may develop thick, prostrate stems. 

A. trigon antha is distinguished from the rest of the group 

by the three angled perianth with a truncate base. 

Rosettes stemless or nearly so. Leaves in a dense rosette, 25–40 

× 5–8 cm, uniformly green. Marginal spines 9–10 per 10 cm, 

2–2.5 mm high, brown tipped. Inflorescence with 5–50 racemes. 

Racemes 8–24 cm long, lax (2–4 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate, 6–8 

× 3–4 mm, acuminate. Pedicel 5–10 mm long. Perianth markedly 

trigonous with truncate base, 28–33 mm long, 8–11 mm wide near 

base when pressed, 7–8 mm wide near mouth, pale yellow to orange 

red; outer lobes free for 6–9 mm.

84 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 42. Aloe 

trigonantha, 

from south of 

Bahir Dar, Gojam 



distribution 

Aloe rivae 

Description 

The species grows on dry stony ground near roads and 

along field margins between 1900 and 2100 m in Gonder 

and Gojam regions. It is so far not known anywhere 

else. The main flowering period is from September to 

January. 

27. Aloe rivae Baker 

The specific epithet ‘rivae’ is given in honour of the 

Italian medical Doctor, Dome nico Riva, who made an 

expedition to Sou thern Ethiopia in 1893 together with 

Count Eugenio Ruspoli from whose collection the type 

of the species was described in 1898. The type material 

was collected at Gobbo Duaya, an area between Corroma 

and Burji in Sidamo floristic region. 

A. rivae is in a group of aloes (numbers 21–22 and 

26–27) which often has secondary branching (up to 

50 racemes or more) and which usually is stemless, 

but some old plants develop thick, prostrate stems. A. 

rivae is distinguished from the rest of the group by the 

particularly bran ched inflorescence, and also by occurring 

in a different geographical area. It is the only species in 

the group known from the southern part of Ethiopia. The 

other species only occurs in the central and northern 

Ethiopia. 

Rosettes usually stemless, sometimes with pro cum bent to ascending 

stem, up to 60 cm long, solitary or in small groups. Leaves ca. 20,

Fig. 43. Aloe rivae, from north of Mega, Sidamo floristic region. 


distribution 

Aloe secundiflora 

ALOE 

85 

40–60 × 9–13.5(–17) cm, ascending, incurved to slightly reflexed, 

dull olive to brownish green flushed red towards margins. Marginal 

teeth 7–14 per 10 cm, 3.5–4 mm long, with minute brown tips. 

Inflorescence 60–70 cm high, conical with many branches, having 

50 racemes or more. Racemes (10–)15–20 cm long, cylindrical, 

lax (3 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate (2–)3–4.5 × (2–)3 –3.5 mm. 

Pedicels 7–12 mm long. Perianth cylindricaltrigonous with truncate 

base, 24–32 mm long, 9.5–10.5 mm wide near base when pressed, 

scarlet, rarely yellow; outer lobes free for 6–10 mm. Capsule 18–20 

mm long. 

The species grows at the margins of deciduous woodland 

and Juniperus forest, sometimes on rocky outcrops 

between 1360 and 2000 m in Sidamo floristic region in 

southern Ethiopia. It also occurs in Northern Kenya. The 

main flowering period is from September to December. 

28. Aloe secundiflora Engler 

The specific epithet ‘secundiflora’, refers to the 

arrangement towards the same side (secundus) of the 

flowers (-floris) in the inflorescence. The species was 

described by Engler in 1895 based on material that was 

collected in the Moshi District in Tanzania. 

A. secundiflora is an almost unique species among the 

stemless aloes in Ethiopia by having the flowers arranged 

towards one side of the inflorescence (also seen in some

86 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 44. Aloe 

secundiflora, 

from south of 



Description 


distribution 

forms of A. pirot tae), and by the beautifully arranged 

darkbrown marginal teeth on the leaves. 

Rosettes stemless or nearly so, usually solitary. Leaves ca. 20, 

35–45 × 8–14 cm, suberect with re curving tips, darkgreen, slightly 

glossy, sometimes obscurely pale spotted. Marginal teeth 8–10 per 

10 cm, 4–5 mm long, dark brown, colour sometimes continuous 

along margin. Inflorescence 1–1.5 m high, with many spreading 

bran ches, lower branches always branching again, with up to 50 

racemes. Racemes 12–20 cm long, distinctly one-sided with flowers 

all ± erect, ± lax (3–4 flowers per cm). Bracts 2.5–5 × 1.5–2.5(–4) 

mm. Pedicels 5.5–6(–10) mm long. Perianth cylindrical, 19–23(– 

28) mm long, ca. 4.5 mm wide when pressed, pale red, minutely 

white spotted when alive. 

The species grows in open grassland and Acacia bushland 

on well drained soils between 1350 and 1550 m in 

Gamo Gofa and Sidamo floristic regions in southern and

Aloe otallensis 

ALOE 

87 

southwestern Ethiopia. It is also known from southern 

Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania. The common flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from April to May, sometimes also 

in August to December. 

29. Aloe otallensis Baker 

The specific epithet ‘otallensis’ refers to the place of 

growth, Otalla from where the type collection was made 

by Ruspoli and Riva. The species was described in 

1898 from the type material collected in Ahele Bekaka, 

between Coromme and Otalla in Sidamo floristic region. 

It had also been known by other names: A. boranensis 

described by Cufodontis in 1939 from plants collected 

near Dubuluk, north of Mega in the same region. Reynolds 

had also applied the name A. wrefordii to refer to plants 

(from Ethiopia) that belong to this species. A. wrefordii in 

the strict sense is restricted to East Africa. 

A. otallensis is unique among the Ethiopian aloes by the 

unusually ornamented midribs of the outer perianth lobes, 

a character not known in any other species; the glaucous 

colour of the vegetative parts of the inflorescence; and 

Fig. 45. Aloe otallensis, from Arba Minch, Gamo Gofa floristic region.

88 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe elegans 

Description 

the palepink perianth and the large bracts (11–17 mm 

long). This makes the species very easy to recognise. 

Rosettes solitary or forming small clumps, stemless. Leaves ca. 24, 

erect to slightly recurved, 35–80 × 6.5–10 cm, canaliculate, grey 

green, sometimes very finely spotted (conspicuously spotted in 

seed lings). Marginal teeth 8–14 per 10 cm, 3–4.5 mm long, reddishbrown. 

Inflorescences glaucous throughout, branched with up to 

12 racemes. Racemes erect, 5–8 cm long, cylindrical, very dense, 

with overlapping bracts. Bracts oblanceolate, 11–17 × 4–6.5 mm, ± 

acute, scarious. Pedicels 7–12(–17) mm long. Perianth cylindrical 

to clava te, 19–23(–27) mm long, 4.5–6 mm wide when pressed, 

pale pink with grey or yellow tip; outer lobes free for c.. 10 mm, 

with conspicuous warty/papillose midrib. Capsule 16 mm long, 

papillose. Seeds ± 3sided, 4.5 mm long, darkbrown with long pale 

brown wings. 

The species grows in open Acacia bush land, often on 

dark soils between 1200 and 1600 m in Gamo Gofa and 

Sidamo floristic regions. It is so far not known anywhere 

else. The main flowering period is from September to 

December. 

30. Aloe elegans Todaro 

The specific epithet ‘elegans’ refers to the overall elegant 

(elegans) nature of the plant. This refers particularly 

to the attractive and conspicuous bright colours of the 

flowers. It is possible to see the different shades of colours 

(yellow, orange and scarlet) of the different populations 

in the same general area. Todaro described and illustrated 

the species in 1882, from a plant grown from seeds sent 

by Schimper from Tigray region, probably in 1870. 

A. elegans is a unique species and is easily recognised 

by the grey to bluegreen leaves that usually are incurved, 

the dense subcapitate to cylindrical racemes, and the 

bright yellow, orange or scarlet perianth. 

This species is very variable with respect to the form 

of the racemes and the colour of the flowers. There may 

be a tendency that dense inflorescences often bear yellow 

flowers, while plants with more elongated inflorescences 

have red flowers. But the forms occur together and there 

is no justification for recognition of infra specific taxa. 

Succulent herb, rarely developing decumbent stem to 30 cm long, 

solitary or forming small groups. Leaves dense, 16–20 (–30) per 

rosette, up to 60 × 15–18 cm, usually incurved, grey to bluish

Fig. 46. Aloe elegans, from near Axum, Tigray floristic region. 


distribution 

Aloe camperi 

ALOE 

89 

green, sometimes obscurely spotted near base, slightly canaliculate 

towards tip. Marginal spines 4–7(–9) per 10 cm, 2–3(–4) mm 

high, brownish red. Inflorescences with 3–11 racemes, often ± 

corymbose. Racemes subcapitate to cylindrical, 5–15 cm long, 

dense (more than 10 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate, 7–12(–15) × 

2.5–4 mm, acuminate. Pedicel 10–20(–23 in fruit) mm long. Young 

buds horizontal to slightly reflexed. Perianth sub cla vate, 21–26 mm 

long, 3–6/6–9 mm wide when pressed, yellow, orange or scarlet; 

outer segments free for 7–13 mm. 

The species grows in rocky slopes, mostly on sandstone 

or limestone, in areas of evergreen bushland or wooded 

grassland between 1500 and 2400 m in Tigray, Welo, 

Gojam and Shewa floristic regions in Ethi opia and in 

Eritrea. It is so far not known anywhere else, but A. 

sinkatana Reynolds, described from the Red Sea Hills 

of Sudan is closely related and possibly not specifically 

distinct. The main flowering period is from September to 

December, also occa sionally from March to May. 

31. Aloe camperi Schweinfurth 

The specific epithet ‘camperi’ is, according to 

Schweinfurth, given in honour of ‘an esteemed friend 

Manfredo Camperio, who did so much for the Italian 

Colony of Eritrea’. The species was described in 1894

90 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 47. Aloe 

camperi, 

cultivated 

material, original 

specimen 

collected from 

near Kombolcha, 

Welo floristic 

region. 

based on the type material collected near Ghinda in 

Eritrea. It is also known by other names, such as A. eru 

described by Berger in 1908, and as A. abyssinica in the 

sense of Salm Dyck, not in the sense of Lamarck (1783). 

A. camperi belongs to a group of cau lescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) mainly characterised by erect, 

ascending or spraw ling stems that are more than 5 cm in 

diameter. There is a clear geographical separation of the 

caulescent group of aloes into two subgroups. Species of 

the first subgroup (including A. adigratana, A. cam peri, 

A. schelpei, and A. sinana) occur from northern Shewa 

towards Eritrea, while species in the second subgroup 

(including A. calidophila, A. gilbertii, A. megal acantha, 

and A. yavel lana) occur from southern Shewa and 

extending to Eastern and Southern Ethiopia. Thus the 

distinctive characters will be mentioned only in relation

Description 


distribution 

Aloe adigratana 

ALOE 

91 

to those species occurring within the same geographical 

area. 

A. cam peri is distinguished from the related species 

occurring in northern Ethiopia by the clavate perianth 

which is 18–22 mm long and the small bracts 2–3(–5) 

× 1–2 mm. 

A. camperi forms a polymorphic species. With regard 

to pedicel length the plants observed separate into two 

non overlapping size classes: 12–16 mm long including 

the type of A. camperi and 22–25 mm long including 

the type of A. eru. The two forms overlap in distribution 

and no other characters correlate. Thus it does not seem 

feasible to recognise the two groups as distinct taxa. 

Succulent shrub, stems erect or ascending, 0.5–1 m long, 6–10 

cm thick. Leaves crowded, 40–60 × 5.5–8(–12) cm, recurved, 

canaliculate, darkgreen or brownish, often spotted (especially 

towards the base, margin with 6–7 spines per 10 cm, spines 3–5 mm 

long, with brown tips. Inflorescence branched with 2–6 racemes. 

Racemes cylindrical, 3–14 cm long, dense, 8–12 flowers per cm. 

Bracts triangularovate, 2–3(–5) × 1–2 mm. Pedicels 12–25 mm 

long. Perianth clavate, 18–22 mm long, 3–4 mm wide near base, 

7–8 mm at widest point, yellow, orange or scarlet, outer segments 

free for 7–8 mm. 

The species grows abundantly on rocky slopes and sandy 

alluvial plains along the eastern escarpment; between 

550 and 2700 m in Tigray and Welo floristic regions in 

Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It is so far not known anywhere 

else. The main flowering period is from March to May. 

32. Aloe adigratana Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘adigratana’ refers to the place, 

Adigrat in the Tigray floristic region where the type 

collection was made by Rey nolds. The species was 

described in 1957. 

A. adigratana belongs to a group of caulescent aloes 

(numbers 3141) main ly characterised by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. adigratana is distinguished from 

the related species occurring in central and northern 

Ethiopia by the sub cla vate perianth 25–27(–33) mm 

long, and the ovateacuminate to almost triangular bracts, 

8–12 × 2.5–4 mm.

92 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 48. Aloe 

adigratana, from 

near Mekele, 


region. 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe sinana 

Description 

Shrubby, stem erect to 1 m long or decumbent to 2 m long. Leaves 

crowded, 40–60 × 7–15 cm, deeply canaliculate, dullgreen with 

numerous pale green spots on the lower third to quarter of both 

surfaces, margin with 4–5 spines per 10 cm. Marginal spines 3–4 

mm long, reddish-brown. Inflorescence to 1 m high, branched 

with 3–5 racemes. Racemes cylindricalconical, 12–22 cm long, 

densely flowered (c. 8 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate-acuminate to 

almost triangular, 8–12 × 2.5–4 mm. Pedicels (12–)14–20 mm long. 

Perianth subclavate, 25–27(–33) mm long, 6–8 mm wide, orange or 

yellow, outer segments free for 13–16 mm. 

The species grows in rocky places, mostly on sandstone, 

also on basement complex between 2000 and 2700 m in 

Tigray floristic region in northern Ethiopia. It is so far not 

known anywhere else. The main flowering period is from 

January to April. 

33. Aloe sinana Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘sinana’ refers to the place, Debre 

Sina in northeastern Shewa where the type collection was 

made by Reynolds. The species was described in 1957. 

A. sinana belongs to a group of cau les cent aloes 

(numbers 3141) mainly characterized by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. sinana is is distinguished from the 

related species occurring in central and northern Ethiopia 

by the subclavate perianth, 23–27 mm long, and the ovate 

bracts, 7–8 × 2 mm. 

Succulent shrub, stems 1–2 m long, sprawling or ascending. Leaves 

± crowded, 40–60 × 10–15 cm, canaliculate only towards tip, 

bluish to greyishgreen, sometimes flushed reddish, with elongated

Fig. 49. Aloe 

sinana, from 

near Debre Sina, 


region. 


distribution 

Aloe calidophila 

ALOE 

93 

whitish spots on the underside and towards base on the upperside. 

Marginal teeth 6–7 per 10 cm, 3–4 mm long. Inflorescence with 

4–6 racemes. Racemes subcapitate to cylindrical, 5.5–8.5(–14) cm 

long, 6–12 flowers per cm. Bracts ovate, 7–8 × 2 mm, tip attenuate. 

Pedicels 18–25(–27 in fruit) mm long. Perianth clavate, 23–27 mm 

long, when pressed 3–4 mm wide near base, 6–7 mm at widest 

point, orange to pink; outer segments free for 12–13 mm. 

The species grows on basaltic slopes, often in areas of 

evergreen Euclea-Rhus na tal ensis–Flueggea virosa 

bush land between 1250 and 1950 m in Welo and Shewa 

floristic regions. It is so far not known anywhere else. 

The main flowering period is from December to April. 

34. Aloe calidophila Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘calidophila’ refers to the hot 

climate where the plant grows. In short it means warm/ 

hot (calido-) loving (philus). The species was described 

in 1957 with the type material collected from the Dida 

Cheena Plains, between Moyale and Mega, in Sidamo 


A. calidophila belongs to a group of caulescent aloes 

(numbers 3141) mainly characterized by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. calidophila is distinguished from 

the related species occurring in southern and eastern 

Ethiopia by the clavate perianth, 17–22 mm long, with 

outer segments free for 8–10 mm, the 10–15 mm long 

pedicels and the ovate bracts, 3–5 × 1.5–2 mm.

94 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 50. Aloe 

calidophila, 

from north of 

Moyale, Sidamo 


Description Succulent shrub, stems 1–1.5 m, erect or basally decumbent. Leaves 

crowded, 60–80 × 16 cm, spreading with recurved tip, deeply 

canaliculate, uniformly dullgreen to greygreen; margin with ca. 

5 spines per 10 cm. Marginal spines 3–5 mm long, dull white. 

Inflorescence branched with up to 20 racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 

5.5–24 cm long, dense, 6–7 flowers per cm. Bracts ovate, 3–5 × 

1.5–2 mm, scarious. Pedicels 10–15 mm long, ex tending to 22 mm 

in fruit. Perianth clavate, 17–20(–22) mm long, widest part 6–7 mm 

when pressed, scarlet turning orange towards throat; outer segments 

free for 8–10 mm. 


distribution 

The species grows in Acacia-Commiphora woodland/ 

bushland or open wooded grass land between 1280 and 

1620 m in Sidamo floristic region. It also occurs in 

northern Kenya. The main flowering period in Ethiopia 

is from September to December, but sometimes also in 

April to May.

Description 

Subspecies 

Aloe megalacantha 

subsp. megalacantha 

35. Aloe megalacantha Baker 

ALOE 

95 

The specific epithet ‘megalacantha’ refers to the larger 

(megala-) spines (cantha) on the leaf margins. The species 

was descri bed in 1898. The type material was collected 

near Milmil in the Ogaden region, eastern Ethiopia. 

A. megalacantha belongs to a group of caulescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) mainly characterized by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. megalacantha is distingui shed 

from the related groups occurring in southern and eastern 

Ethiopia by the cylindricaltrigonous perianth, 23–30 

mm long, with the outer segments free for 10–14 mm, 

the pedicels (8–)10–15 mm long and the triangularovate 

bracts 5–12 × 2–4 mm. 

Succulent shrub, 0.5–2 m high. Leaves crowded, 60–80 × 13–15 

cm, deeply canaliculate, recurved, dull lightgreen to bluishgreen. 

Marginal spines 5–7 per 10 cm, 4–6 mm long, pinkish to reddishbrown. 

Inflorescence 0.5–1 m high, with 6–13 racemes. Racemes 

cylindrical to conical, 5–14 cm long, lax or dense. Bracts triangular 

to ovate, 5–2 × 2–4 mm. Pedicels (8–)10–15(–17 in fruit) mm long. 

Perianth cylindricaltrigonous, 23–30 mm long, 4–7 mm wide when 

pressed, yellow orange or scarlet; outer segments free for 10–14 

mm. 

The species is divided into two subspecies, based on 

differences in the length of the bracts and the marginal 

spines. 

1. Bracts 4–7 mm long; marginal spines 5–6 mm long 

a. subsp. megalacantha 

- Bracts 11–12 mm long; marginal spines ca. 4 mm long 

b. subsp. alticola 

a. subsp. megalacantha 

The subspecies is characterised by having ascending 

stems thus forming a sprawling bush. Marginal spines 

are 5–6 mm long. The racemes are denser than in subsp. 

alticola with (6–)7–10 flowers per cm. The bracts are 

5–8.5 mm long and the perianth 23–28 mm long. 

The subspecies grows on rocky hillsides and sandy 

alluvial plains in open Acacia-Commiphora-Balanites 

bushland; frequently planted on graves between 1100 

and 1850 m in Bale and Harerge floristic regions. It also 

occurs in northern Somalia. The main flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from August to October, sometimes also 

in April.

96 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 51. Aloe megalacantha subsp. megalacantha, from near Asbe Teferi, 

Harerge floristic region. 

Aloe megalacantha 

subsp. alticola 

b. subsp. alticola Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The subspecific epithet ‘alticola’, refers to its occurrence 

at higher altitudes. The name literally means high altitude 

(alti-) dweller (cola). The subspecies was described 

by Gilbert and Sebsebe in 1997. The type material was 

collected in an area between Alemaya and Grawa in 

Harerge region. 

The subspecies is characterised by having stems more 

erect, often forming compact clumps. The marginal 

spines are ca. 4 mm long. The racemes are laxer with 

only 3–5 flowers per cm. The bracts are longer, 11–12 

mm, and so are the tepals (28–30 mm long). 

The subspecies grows in margins of evergreen thickets 

on limestone slopes between 2100 and 2150 m in Harerge 

floristic region. It is so far not known anywhere else. 

The main flowering period is from August to October; 

sometimes also from April toMay. 

36. Aloe gilbertii Reynolds ex Sebsebe & 

Brandham 

The specific epithet ‘gilbertii’, was given in honour of 

one of the collectors of the type specimen, an outstanding 

botanist who has contributed importantly to the progress

Description 

Subspecies 

Aloe gilbertii subsp. 

gilbertii 

Aloe gilbertii subsp. 

megalacanthoides 

ALOE 

97 

of the knowledge of the Ethiopian Flora, M.G. Gilbert. 

The name was proposed by Reynolds, and the species 

was later formally described in 1997. The type material 

was collected from an area south of Awassa towards 

Yirgalem in Sidamo floristic region. 

A. gilbertii belongs to a group of cau lescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) mainly characterized by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. gilbertii is distinguished from the 

related species occurring in southern and eastern Ethiopia 

by the cylindrical to subclavate perianth, 23–27 mm long, 

with the outer segments free for 8–11 mm, the pedicels 

9–10 mm long and the triangularovate bracts, 4–6 × 2–3 

mm. It also shows similarities to A. calidophila, which is 

best separated by the longer and more strongly reflexed, 

deeply canaliculate leaves, less branched inflorescence 

and smaller, more clavate flowers. 

A succulent shrub, stem erect, up to 1–1.5 m long, occasionally ± 

stemless. Leaves crowded, 40–60 × 9–11 cm, canaliculate, recurved 

towards tip, dark green or glaucous, often flushed brown or mauve 

above and below. Marginal teeth 7–10 per 10 cm, 3–5 mm long, 

with brown tips. Inflorescence up to 1.2 m high, compoundly 

branched with 15–25 racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 6–15 cm long, 

lax, 2–4(–5) flowers per cm. Bracts ovate, acute, 4–6 × 2–3 mm. 

Pedicels 9–10 mm long. Perianth cylindrical to subclavate, trigonously 

indented, 23–27 mm long, 4.5–8 mm wide when pressed, 

orange to red; outer segments free for 8–11 mm. 

Two subspecies are recognized in the Flora area. 

1. Leaves only slightly recurved, easily flattened when prepared for 

drying; perianth 23–27 mm long . a. subsp. gilbertii 

- Leaves strongly recurved, impossible to flatten when prepared for 

drying; perianth 27–28 mm long. b. subsp. megalacanthoides 

a. subsp. gilbertii 

The subspecies grows in Acacia woodland, often found in 

hedges and along field margins; between 1300 and 1800 

(1900) m in Shewa, Gamo Gofa and Sidamo floristic 

regions. It is recognised by the characters gi ven in the 

key above. It is so far not known anywhere else. The 

main flowering period is from October to December. 

b. subsp. megalacanthoides Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The subspecific epithet ‘megal acan tho ides’ refers to A. 

megalacantha like (oides), referring to the resemblance 

between this subspecies and A. megalacantha. The 

subspecies was described in 1997. The type material was

98 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 52. Aloe 

gilbertii subsp. 

gilbertii, from 

near Langano, 


region. 

Aloe schelpei 

collected in Konso on the road to Yabello in Gamo Gofa 


The subspecies grows in open or dense Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland, on rocky places with Adenia 

venenata between 1200 and 1350 m in Gamo Gofa 

floristic region. It is so far not known anywhere else. The 

main flowering period is from Oc tober to November; 

sometimes also from April to May. 

37. Aloe schelpei Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘schelpei’ is given in honour of one 

of the collectors, Dr. E. A. Schelpe, University of Cape 

Town, whose collection was designated as the type. The 

species was described in 1954. The type material was 

collected in Bole Valley north of Addis Ababa, Shewa 

floristic region by Curle and Schelpe. 

A. schelpei belongs to a group of cau lescent aloes 

(numbers 3141) mainly characterised by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. schelpei is distinguished from 

the related species, occurring in central and northern 

Ethiopia, by the cylindrical perianth, 27–30 mm long,

Fig. 53. Aloe 

schelpei, from 

Debre Libanos, 


region. 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe ghibensis 

ALOE 

99 

with the outer segments free for 12–15 mm, the (10–)12– 

17 mm long pedicels and the triangularovate bracts 6–8 

× 2–4 mm. 

Succulent shrub, stems decumbent or pendent, 0.5–1 m long, 5–6 

cm thick. Leaves crowded, 45–50 × 8–12 cm, spreading to recurved, 

shallowly canaliculate, glaucousgrey to bluegreen with pinkish 

margin, sometimes spotted above and below towards base. Marginal 

spines 7–11 per 10 cm, 3–4 mm long, pinkish. Inflorescence with 

1–3 racemes only. Racemes cylindrical to conical, 6–16 cm long, 

6–8 flowers per cm. Bracts ovate, 6–8 × 2–4 mm. Pedicels 10–17(– 

20 in fruit) mm long. Perianth cylindrical, (22–)27–30 mm long, 

5–7 mm wide when pressed, orange to orangered; outer segments 

free for (8–)12–15 mm. 

The species grows in more open areas within evergreen 

bushland on steep slopes and cliffs of basalt between 

1700 and 2470 m in Shewa floristic region. It is so far not 


October to March. 

38. Aloe ghibensis Sebsebe & Friis 

The specific epithet ‘ghibensis’ refers to the “Ghibe 

Gorge” in Kefa floristic region, from where the type 

specimen was collected from and known distribution 

of the species so far. The species is described in Kew 

Bulletin in 2010.

100 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 54. Aloe 

ghibensis, from 

Ghibe Gorge, 

Kefa floristic 

region. 

Description 

A. ghibensis belongs to a group of caulescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41 mainly characterized by erect, ascending 

and sprawling stems. Aloe ghibensis is distinguished with 

the related species by its habitat occurring in Combretum- 

Terminalia woodland in the western part of Ethiopia. 

It is distinguished from the closely related species, A. 

schelpei in central Ethiopia by the inflorescence with 7–8 

racemes; flowers secund, lax with 1–2 flowers per cm 

length; bracts 3–4 mm long and flower pedicel 5–6 mm 

long. In contrast, A. schelpei has single or 2–3 racemes, 

flowers arranged in all sides, denser inflorescence and 

longer bracts, 6–8 mm long and pedicles 10–17 mm 

long. 

Caulescent with scandent stems to 1 m long and 5–7 cm wide; 

rosette Leaves rosulate, 35–50 × 7–10 cm; leaf surface dull green


distribution 

Aloe clarkei 

Description 


distribution 

ALOE 101 

with smooth surface; marginal teeth 3 mm long, white with brown 

tips, 7–10 mm apart or 6–8 per 10 cm length; exudate drying yellow. 

Inflorescence 45–55 cm long, 7–8 branched; raceme cylindrical, 

10–22 cm long, lax, with 1–2 flowers per cm length. Flowers 

subsecund on the raceme. Bracts ovateacuminate at the apex, 3–4 

× 2.5 mm. Pedicel 5–6 mm long (elongating to 10 mm in fruit). 

Perianth scarlet, (yellow-flowered according to Ash 1757) 28–30 

mm long, base truncate, 6 mm across; outer tepals free for 6–8 mm 

long. Young capsules 17–20 × 7 mm. 

It grows in Combretum-Terminalia woodland on edge 

of cliffs on volcanic outcrops. Associated plants include 

Combretum collinum, Acacia polyacantha subsp. campylacantha, 

Ficus sycomorus, etc. between 1365 and 

1700 m. Known so far only from the Ghibe Gorge in 

Kefa floristic region. The main flowering period is in 

November and between March and April. 

39. Aloe clarkei L. Newton 

The specific epithet ‘clarkei’ refers to the collector of 

the type specimen, Paul Clarke. It was described from 

the Naita Mtn in northern tip of the Elimi triangle, an 

area bordering SE Sudan in Kefa floristic region by Len 

Newton in 2002. 

It is a unique plant among the caulescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) in being a dwarf plant c. 30 cm long 

with marginal teeth on the leaves hooked and pointing 

to leaf apex and is restricted to SW Kefa bordering the 

Elimi triangle. 

Dwarf caulescent plant with stems to c. 30 cm long, erect initially, 

but freely branching at base to form clumps. Leaves laxly rosulate, 

1–1.5 cm apart, lanceolate, up to 18 × 3 cm, green with a light waxy 

bloom and scattered elongated whitish spots occasionally with 

irregular transverse bands , more seen below; marginal teeth hooked 

pointing towards the leaf apex, 3 mm long, green with white tip, 6–9 

mm apart. Inflorescence solitary, branched to 50 cm long, with 2–6 

racemes. Racemes cylindrical; terminal ones 10 × 6 cm and lateral 

ones smaller; bracts ovateattenuate, scarious, 6 × 3 mm with one 

reddish brown veins extending into the acuminate apex; pedicels to 

15 mm long; perianth 25–26 mm long cylindrical above the ovary , 

trigonous above; outer tepals free for 10–12 mm long; stamens with 

pale yellow filaments , anthers exerted. Fruit 13–15 × 5 mm. 

The species grows in light shade in openings in montane 

forest at about 1980 m. Known so far only from Naita Mtn

102 ALOACEAE 

Aloe yavellana 

Description 


distribution 

Fig. 55. Aloe 

yavellana, from 



in northern tip of the Elimi triangle, an area bordering SE 

Sudan in Kefa floristic region. The main flowering period 

is unknown. 

41. Aloe yavellana Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘yavellana’, refers to the place of 

growth, Yavello (Yabello) in Sidamo floristic region from 

where the type collection was made by Reynolds. The 

species was described in 1954. 

The species belongs to a group of cau lescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) mainly characterised by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. yavellana is distinguished from 

the related species occurring in southern and eastern 

Ethiopia by the cylindricaltrigonous perianth, 20–22 

mm long, with the outer segments free for 8–10 mm, the 

pedicels, 8–10 mm long pedicels and the triangularovate 

bracts, 3–6 × 1–2 mm. 

Succulent shrub, stems erect to 1 m high or sprawling, up to 3 m 

long, 3–4 cm diameter. Leaves ± spaced along stem, 30–40 × 5–7 

cm, recurving towards tip, slightly canaliculate, brown above, pale 

below and when growing in shade. Marginal spines (10–)14–17 per 

10 cm, ca. 3 mm high, with reddish tips. Inflorescence with 8–10 

racemes. Racemes capitate to cylindrical, 4–10 cm long, dense, 6–10 

flowers per cm. Bracts triangular-ovate, 3–6 × 1–2 mm, scarious. 

Pedicels 8–10(12–in fruit) cm long. Perianth cylindricaltrigonous, 

20–22 mm long, 4–6 mm wide pressed, dullscarlet to orange; outer 

segments free for 8–10 mm. 

The species grows in rocky slopes in clearings in Juniperus 

forest, and also in more disturbed areas near roads

Aloe friisii 

Fig. 56. Aloe 

friisii, from 

Kaske River, 

Gamo Gofa 


Plate obtained 

from Kew 

Bulletin. 

ALOE 103 

between 1600 and 1900 m in Sidamo floristic region. It 

is so far not known anywhere else. The main flowering 

period is from September to Oc tober. 

40. Aloe friisii Sebsebe & Gilbert 

The specific epithet ‘friisii’ is given in honour of the 

eminent Danish botanist who was one of the collectors of 

the type specimen, and who has collected more plant specimens 

from Ethiopia than any other botanist so far, Prof. 

Ib Friis from Copenhagen University, Denmark. The 

species was described in 2000. The type material was 

collected near the Kaske River in Gamo Gofa region. 

The species belongs to a group of cau lescent aloes 

(numbers 31–41) mainly cha racterised by erect, ascending 

or spraw ling stems. A. friisii is easily recognised from

104 ALOACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe welmelensis 

other members of the group by its paniculate inflorescence 

with yellow flowers. 

Erect or sprawling shrublet, unbranched or forming small clumps of 

up to 3 stems; stems to 20 cm long, 2–4 cm thick. Leaves narrowly 

elliptic, 25–35 × 3.5–5 cm, pale green with sparse white spots, 

these sometimes rather obscure. Marginal teeth 2–8 mm apart, 1–2 

mm long, whitish, sometimes with brownish tips. Inflorescence 

ascending, 50–75 cm long, with 8–13 branches, lower most with 

short secondary branches. Racemes 3–14 cm long with two to three 

flower per cm. Bracts ovate, 2–5 × 1–3 mm, scarious. Pedicels 

8–12 mm long. Perianth cylindrical, 22–25 × 7–10 mm wide when 

pressed; outer lobes free for 1/3 of their length. 

The species grows on rocky slopes in Acacia horrida 

bushland and under Euclea schimperi and Acacia hockii 

thickets in Acacia–Combretum–Terminalia woodland 

between 600 and 1600 m in Gamo Gofa floristic region. 

It is so far not known anywhere else. The main flowering 

period is from January to February. 

42. Aloe welmelensis Sebsebe & Nordal 

The specific epithet ‘welmelensis’ refers to the Welmel 

River in Bale floristic region, along which the type 

material of the species was collected from and the known 

distributeion of the species so far. The species is described 

in Kew Bulletin in 2010. 

Fig. 57. Aloe welmelensis, from Welmel River, Bale floristic region.

Description 


distribution 

Aloe tewoldei 

ALOE 105 

The species belongs to a small group of caulescent 

aloes (numbers 42–45) that occur in Eastern and 

Southeastern Ethiopia characterised by narrow, distinctly 

or obscurely spotted leaves which are separated along the 

erect or sprawling stems, stems 1–2 cm in diamter. It is 

distinguished from the closely related species A. tewoldei 

by the marginal spines being white, obsolete to 1mm 

long, flowers arranged to one side i.e secund, perianth 

30–32 mm long and pedicel 5–7 mm long. In contrast, 

A. tewoldei has pinkish marginal spines that are c. 2 mm 

long, flowers arranged in all sides, peraianth 20 mm long 

and pedicels 12 mm long. 

Caulescent, suckering to form groups. Stem erect to decumbent 

30–60 cm long, 1.8–2 cm wide. Roots hairy. Leaves scattered along 

the stem 10–18, lax, arranged in 2–5 turns along the stem, grayish 

green, not spotted, 30–50 × 2–4 cm, surface smooth; marginal 

teeth obsolete, to 1 mm long, white, reddishtipped, 3–5 mm apart 

or 15–17 per 10 cm length; exudate drying yellow. Inflorescence 

solitary or two, 50–80 cm long, with solitary or 2, rarely 4–6 

racemes; raceme cylindrical, 15–30 cm long, lax, with 1–2 flowers/ 

cm. Stamens exerted 1–4 mm long. Flowers secund. Bracts white, 

ovate–acuminate, 4–5 × 2.5 mm. Pedicel 6–7 mm. Perianth bright 

scarlet, paler to almost white towards mouth, 28–32 mm, base 

slightly swollen, truncate, 6–7 mm across; outer perianth parts free 

for 10–12 mm long. Young fruits 17–20 mm long. 

The species grows in vertical rock faces and edges of 

rocky valleys and on outcrops along rivers between 1050 

and 1500 m. Known so far only along the Welmel River 

in Bale floristic region, Ethiopia. The main flowering 

period is in December. 

43. Aloe tewoldei Gilbert & Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘tewoldei’ honours the eminent 

Ethiopian ecologist and the first Leader of the Ethiopian 

Flora Project, Dr. Tewolde Berhan Gebere Egziabher 

who collected the material from which the species was 

described in 1997. The type material was collected from 

south of Asbe Teferi in Harerge floristic region and 

cultivated at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. 



Southeastern Ethiopia characterised by narrow, distinctly

106 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 58. Aloe tewoldei, from Sof Omar caves, Bale floristic region. 

Description 


distribution 

or obscurely spotted leaves which are separated along 

the erect or sprawling stems, stems 1–2 cm in diameter. 

It is distinguished from the closely related species A. 

welmelensis by the marginal spines being pinkish, 2 mm 

long, flowers arranged in all sides, perianth 20 mm long 

and pedicel 12 mm long. In contrast, A. welmelesnis has 

marginal spines white, obsolete to 1mm long, flowers 

arranged to one side i.e secund, perianth 30–32 mm long 

and pedicel 5–7 mm long. 

Lax shrublet, sometimes ± pendent; stems to 50 cm long ca. 6 

mm thick. Leaves spaced along the stem, oblonglanceolate, up 

to 13.5(–32) × 1.5–2(–2.2) cm, subterete, greygreen, obscurely 

spotted. Marginal teeth 20–30 per 10 cm, c. 0.5 mm long, white. 

Inflorescence unbranched. Raceme very lax, ca. 27 cm long; 

flowers 10–40 mm apart. Bracts ca. 4 × 2 mm. Pedicel c. 12 mm 

long. Perianth trigonouscylindrical, 20 mm long, 7 mm wide when 

pressed, base truncate, greyish orange with greenish tip. 

The species grows hanging from limestone clifffaces, 

in Harerge and possibly also in Bale floristic regions. A 

second specimen of this species has never been collected 

since the first collection in the 1970’s, from which the 

species was described. There is an urgent need to find 

the species in the wild and collect more material of the 

species. The species flowered in cultivation in October.

Aloe elkerriana 

Description 

44. Aloe elkerriana Dioli & McCoy 

ALOE 107 

The specific epithet ‘elkerriana’ refers to the type locality 

El Kerre in Ogaden in Bale floristic region where the 

type collection was made. The species was described in 

2007. 



Southeastern Ethiopia and. The group is characterised 

by narrow, distinctly or obscurely spotted leaves which 

are separated along the erect or sprawling stems, and by 

the lax inflorescences. It is distinguished from the related 

species by the long mainly single stems 3–5 meters long. 

Dwarf to mediumsized plants occurring solitary or in small 

groups; stems single or rarely branched, 10–20 mm thick, up to 

3–5 meters long. Leaves spotted below in juvenile stages, green to 

bluishgreen, separated along the stem, triangular lanceolate up to 

30 × 4.5 cm. Marginal spines 1–2 mm long, whitishpink, and c. 4 

mm apart. Inflorescence 1–2, branched 50–60 cm long, with 4–5 

racemes. Racemes cylindrical, 10–15 cm long, sub-laxly flowered. 

Bracts c. 5 mm long. Pedicels 10–17 mm long. Perianth cylindric 

trigonous, c. 25 mm long and 5 mm wide, slightly constricted above 

the ovary; outer segments free to nearly half way, apices recurved, 

dark coral red with yellow mouth; outer segments free to nearly half 

way, apices recurved, stamens and stigmas exserted. Capsule dark 

brown, ovoid 15–19 × 10–14 mm. 

Fig. 59. Aloe elkerriana, from Elkerre, Bale floristic region.

108 ALOACEAE 


distribution 

Aloe jacksonii 

Description 


distribution 

Aloe vituensis 

The species grows on a bare rock cliffface overlooking 

the village of El Kerre at about 1000 m in Harege floristic 

region. It is so far not known elsewhere. The main 

flowering period is unknown as it was not indicated in 

the protologue. 

45. Aloe jacksonii Reynolds 

The specific epithet ‘jacksonii’ is given in honour of the 

entomologist and collector of the type specimen, T. H. E. 

Jackson. The species was described in 1955 based on the 

material collected near El Kerre in Bale floristic region 

and cultivated in Johannesburg. 



Southeastern Ethiopia and. The group is characterised by 

narrow, distinctly or obscurely spotted leaves which are 

separated along the erect or sprawling stems, and by the 

lax inflorescences. A. jacksonii is distinguished from the 

group by heavily spotted leaves and unbranched simple 

inflorescence. 

Dwarf succulent shrub, stems erect or sprawling, 10–20 cm long. 

Leaves separated along stem, linear lanceolate, 11–15 × 1.2–2.2 

cm, upper surface almost flat, dull-green, with pale spots above and 

below. Marginal teeth 16–20 per 10 cm, c. 1 mm long, pale pinkish. 

Inflorescence not branched, ca. 30 cm long. Raceme lax, 9–11 cm 

long, 3–4 flowers per cm. Bracts ovate, 4.5–5 × 2–2.5 mm. Pedicel 

7–8 mm long. Perianth cylindrical, c. 2–3 mm long, 7–8 mm wide 

when pressed, scarlet; outer segments free for 5–6 mm. 

It grows along the edge of a narrow limestone ravine, area 

generally dominated by Acacia-Commiphora bushland 

at about 1050 m in Bale region. It is so far not known 

anywhere else. Flowering specimens seen, in cultivation, 

from September to October; also in June. 

46. Aloe vituensis Baker 

The specific epithet ‘vituensis’ refers to the place of 

growth (Witu/Vitu), on the Tana River in Kenya where 

the type collection was made by Thomas. The species 

was described in 1898. 

The species is easily recognised by the combination of

Description 


distribution 

ALOE 109 

a low shrubby habit, stems to ca. 20 cm long, and darkgreen 

spotted leaves and the simple inflorescence. 

Low succulent shrub, stems erect, up to 20 cm high, slender. Leaves 

lax, spreading with recurving tips, slightly canaliculate, 21–32 × 

2.5–5 cm, lightgreen to bronze, clearly spotted above and below. 

Marginal spines 9–12 per 10 cm, 3–4 mm long, brown tipped. 

Inflorescence unbranched, to ca. 75 cm long. Raceme cylindrical, 

9–12 cm long, lax (ca. 3 flowers per cm). Bracts ovate-acute, 6.5–7 

× 4 mm. Pedicel 4–7(–12 in fruit) mm long. Perianth cylindrical to 

subclavate, 21–25 mm long, 4–6(–7) mm wide when pressed, coral 

pink; outer segments free for c. 7 mm. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commiphora bushland at 

around1200 m in northern Kenya. The species is so far 

known only from the Kenyan side of the border with 

Ethiopia. However, the fact that it is collected close to 

the border at Moyale makes it probable that it may occur 

in Sidamo floristic region of Ethiopia, and therefore it 

is included here. The flowering period is from March to 

April.

110 ALOACEAE 



ASPHODELACEAE 

This family is sometimes defined to include Aloaceae. 

In the restricted sense it includes herbaceous plants 

where the underground organ is a rhizome, which, 

when cut, is yellowish inside. The leaves are arranged 

in a basal rosette. The peduncle (scape) is leafless. The 

inflorescence is unbranched, each flower subtended by 

a single bract. The pedicels are generally without a joint 

(except in Asphodelus). The flowers are regular with fused 

(in Kniphofia) or free (in all other genera) tepals, which 

may be white, greenish, yellow, pink or red. The stamens 

have filiform filaments, which are glabrous to scabrous 

(in Kniphofia and Trachyandra) or hairy (in Bulbine and 

Jodrellia), free or partly fused with the perianth. The 

anthers release the pollen inwards (introrse dehiscence). 

The carpels are united to form a 3locular ovary with 2 to 

several ovules per cell, fixed on a central column (axile 

placentation). There are septal glands in the ovary. The 

style is slender with a small stigma. The fruit is generally 

a loculicidal capsule, rarely (in Jodrellia) without opening 

mechanisms. An extra cell layer (aril), covering the black 

seed coat, makes the seeds dull and sometimes glutinose, 

brownish to greyish. This aril may sometimes generate a 

winglike structure around the seeds. 

Asphodelaceae is an Old World tropical to temperate 

family with 15 genera and about 750 species, distributed 

in arid and mesic regions of the temperate, subtropical 

and tropical zones of the Old World, with the main 

centre of diversity in southern Africa. It is represented 

by 4 genera and 11 species in Ethiopia. The genus 

Kniphofia has flowers very similar to those of Aloe, the 

genera only differ in their leaf morphology and anatomy. 

Representatives of Asphodelaceae may sometimes be 

difficult to distinguish from Anthericaceae on morphology 

alone (especially the genus Trachyandra, which up to 

the 1960s even was included in the genus Anthericum). 

The internally yellowish rhizomes (due to the content 

of anthraquinons) and brownish to greyish seeds are

Reproduction 


use 

Conservation 

KNIPHOFIA 111 

characters that unequivocally distinguish Asphodelaceae 

from Anthericaceae. The two families also differ in 

the way pollen grains are produced (the cell walls are 

produced simultaneously after the 4 nuclei in meiosis are 

formed in Asphodelaceae, while in Anthericaceae the cell 

walls are produced successively after each cell nuclear 

division). 

The flower morphology is very variable within the 

family, from the mainly bird pollinated tubular reddish or 

yellowish flowers of Kniphofia to the unspecialised open 

whitish flowers of Trachyandra, probably pollinated by 

flies and bees. The nectar is produced in the separating 

walls of the ovary (septal glands) and excreted in the 

bottom of the flower. The nectar production is more 

pronounced in the birdpollinated Kniphofia than in the 

insectpollinated genera, in which the pollen itself might 

represent the reward. The densely hairy stamens of 

Bulbine and Jodrellia may play a role in pollination, but 

this feature needs further investigation. 

Most species have stiffly erect scapes and capsules 

that open by splits from the top, leading to ballistic seed 

dispersal, as in Kniphofia. The winged seeds imply that 

wind plays an important role in dispersal. In Trachyandra 

we find lax inflorescences, releasing the seeds on the 

ground. 

The genus Kniphofia, and to some extent also Bulbine, 

include several ornamental plants with economic 

potential. Inflorescences of Kniphofia are sold as cut 

flowers, although mostly of South African species. 

Anthraquinons (many of which are as yet unidentified) 

are characteristic for the family, giving yellowish colours 

to the rhizomes, and in some cases also to the flowers. 

Five out of the seven Kniphofia species are endemic 

to Ethiopia and Eritrea: K. foliosa, K. isoetifolia, K. 

schimperi, K. hildebrandtii and K. insignis. The three first 

ones are widespread and probably not threatened, whereas 

the two last ones, and particularly K. hildebrandtii, have 

restricted distribution, and care should be taken. Jodrellia 

macrocarpa is a nearendemic (reaching Somalia in the 

east), known only from a few localities, and it might be 

threatened.

112 ASPHODELACEAE 

Key to genera 

The genus Asphodelus is included in the key, but not in the text, as its occurrence 

within the area is doubtful, although it has been reported from Eritrea. 

1. Tepals fused for most of their length, thus forming tubular to funnel-shaped 

flowers 1. Kniphofia. 

- Tepals free to the base, forming more or less star-shaped flowers 2 

2. Tepals pinkish or yellow; filaments with long hairs 3 

- Tepals white often with a reddish streak outside on the tepals; filaments 

glabrous or scabrid, never hairy 4 

3. Tepals yellow, all 1-nerved 2. Bulbine 

- Tepals pinkish, the outer 3–5-nerved 3. Jodrellia 

4. Pedicel without a joint, filaments scabrid without expanded base 

4. Trachyandra 

- Pedicels with a joint, filaments completely glabrous with expanded bases 

clasping the ovary Asphodelus 

1. KNIPHOFIA Moench 

Plants growing from a thick rhizome in aggregates or 

solitarily, rarely with a thick, well developed woody 

stem. The leaves are arranged in basal rosettes, usually 

in 4 or 5 ranks, linear, tapering gradually to the apex. The 

scape is stout, naked except for occasional sterile bracts 

below the inflorescence. The inflorescence is simple, 

often subcapitate. The flowers are sessile or with a short 

pedicel. The flowers are usually pendulous, with varied 

colours: white, yellow, brownish or various shades of red, 

the red pigment is often more conspicuous at the apex, 

thus giving a bicoloured appearance. The perianth tube 

is bellshaped to cylindrical, or somewhat funnelshaped. 

The stamens are 6, usually as long as, or longer than, 

the perianth at anthesis. The fruit is a globose to ovoid 

loculicidal capsule. The seeds are somewhat flattened, 

acutely three angled or winged. 

The genus includes about 70 species distributed 

essentially in eastern and southen Africa (with 45 species), 

with one species in Madagascar and one in Arabia, and 7 

species are known to occur in Ethiopia.


KNIPHOFIA 113 

Members of the genus produce the most beautiful and 

varied flowers ranging from white to pink, yellow to red. 

The plants within the genus do not only display these 

varied colours, they also display two different patterns 

of flower opening. In K. isoetifolia and K. pumila, the 

flowers open from top downwards (centrifugal), while 

in the other species the flowers open from base upwards 

(centripetal). 

1. Raceme very dense, stamens exserted for 8–15 mm long 2 

- Raceme lax or subdense, stamens exserted for less than 4 mm long at anthesis 

and later withdrawn 3 

2. Perianth campanulate, 10–14(–18) mm long; flowers opening from top 

downwards (centrifugal) 1. K. pumila 

- Perianth funnel-shaped to tubular, 18–27 mm long; flowers opening from 

base upwards (centripetal) 2. K. foliosa 

3. Flowers white, pink, yellow, orange or red; bracts white or greenish, 

reflexed at or after anthesis 4 

- Flowers pale greenish or yellowish–white; bracts brown, not reflexed 

at or after anthesis 3. K. hildebrandtii 

4. Inflorescence cylindrical, flowers opening from base upwards (centripetal) 5 

- Inflorescence capitate, flowers opening from top downwards (centrifugal) 

4. K. isoetifolia 

5. Perianth yellow, orange or red; roots slender, not fusiform; usually 

growing in well drained soil 6 

- Perianth white, buds pale pink; roots fusiform; growing in water-logged 

meadows 5. K. insignis 

6. Inflorescence lax, with 1–3 flowers per cm, ± secund; bracts narrow, 

1.2–2 mm in diameter 6. K. schimperi 

- Inflorescence subdense, with 5–10 flowers per cm, not secund; 

bracts wide, 3–4 mm in diameter 7. K. thomsonii


Kniphofia pumila 

Description 

Fig. 60. 

Kniphofia 

pumila, from 

Wellega. 

1. Kniphofia pumila (Aiton) Kunth 

The specific epithet ‘pumila’, meaning small, is not 

easily to relate to a robust plant like this. The species 

was described by Aiton in 1789 as Aletris pumila, and 

later transferred to Kniphofia by Kunth in 1843. It was 

also known by the name Kniphofia comosa described by 

Hochstetter in 1844 from plants collected in Jan Meda 

(Dchara Meda) in Gonder floristic region by Schimper. 

The species is related to the common K. foliosa, but is 

easily distinguished by the bellshaped perianth, 10–14(– 

18) mm long and the flowers opening from top downwards 

(centrifugal). In contrast, K. foliosa has a funnelshaped 

to tubular perianth, 18–27 mm long, and the flowers are 

opening from bottom upwards (centripetal). 

Plants slender, solitary with erect, cormlike rootstock, with some 

fibrous remains of leaves at the base. Leaves (15–)30–100 × 0.5–2 

cm, linear, dark to greyish green, keeled; keels and margin smooth 

or minutely tuberculate, but not scabrid. Peduncle (including 

raceme) 30–90 cm long. Raceme cylindrical, 4–15 cm long (to 18 

cm long in fruit), very dense, >15 flowers per cm. Bracts white, 

lanceolate to ovatelanceolate, 3–10 × 1.5–5 mm, serrulate. Perianth 

yellow, orange, pale red to vermillion, campanulate, 9–13 mm long


distribution 

Kniphofia foliosa 

Description 


distribution 

KNIPHOFIA 115 

(14–18 mm long in cultivation) widening at the mouth and only 

slightly constricting at the base; perianth lobes small, 1–2 × 1–3 

mm. Pedicel 1.5–3.5 mm long, elongating to 6 mm long in fruit. 

Stamens and styles exserted, 10–15 mm long; the stamens spirally 

twisted on fading. Capsule, 5–9 × 4–6 mm. 

The species grows in grassland, grassy slopes, on steep 

hillsides and near streams in tall grass between 1220 and 

2650(–3150) m. It is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

It also occurs in the Sudan, Uganda, and Zaire. The main 

flowering period in Ethi opia is from August to September, 

sometimes also in October. 

2. Kniphofia foliosa Hochstetter 

The specific epithet ‘foliosa’ refers to the many crowded 

rosulate leaves at the base (folium = leaf). The species 

was described in 1844 from plants collected in Adwa, 

Tig ray region by Schimper. 

The species is related to the more widespread K. 

pumila, but it is easily distinguished by the funnelshaped 

to tubular perianth, 18–27 mm long; flowers 

opening from base upwards (centripetal). In contrast, K. 

pumila has a bellshaped perianth, 10–14(–18) mm long 

centrifugal flower opening. 

Robust plants forming dense clumps, with thick erect rhizomes, 

sometimes with a stem up to 40 cm long, with some fibrous remains 

of leaves at the base. Leaves 20–100 × (1.6–)2–4(–7) cm; linear 

lanceolate, dark to greyishgreen, keeled; margin serrulate, keels 

smooth below; serrulate above. Peduncle (including raceme) 30– 

150 cm long. Raceme 15–40 cm long (to 50 cm long in fruit), very 

dense, cylindrical. Bracts white, drying brownish, ovate to ovatelanceolate, 

4–12 × 2.5–3.5 mm, serrulate. Perianth pale yellow, 

orange or red, cylindrical, 18–27 mm long, widening at the mouth 

and only slightly constricting at the base; perianth lobes 3.5–6 × 

2–3 mm. Pedicel 3–4 mm long. Stamens and style exserted, 8–15 

mm long, the stamens spirally twisted when drying. Capsule ovoid, 

7–8 × 6 mm. 

The species grows on roadsides, on over grazed areas 

with scattered trees, hillsides, on rock outcrops, and 

mountain plateaus between 2400 and 4000 m, usually on 

well drained soil. It is widespread in Ethiopia, but it is not 


June to October, but it sometimes extends to December 

January in wetter places and forest margins.


Fig. 61. Kniphofia foliosa, from Semien mountains, Gonder floristic region. 


hildebrandtii 

Description 

The species often occurs in large populations, e.g. as 

seen near Seb sebe Washa in Bale, and at Alidoro between 

Fiche and the Blue Nile Gorge in Shewa. 

3. Kniphofia hildebrandtii Cufodontis 

The specific epithet ‘hildebrandtii’ was given in honour 

of the collector, Mr. Hilde brandt from whose collection 


described by Cufodontis in 1971 from a plant collected in 

the Shewa Region west of Addis Ababa. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the other 

species by the pale greenish or yel lowish white flowers 

and brown bracts that are not reflexed during or after 

anthe sis. 

Plants slender with fibrous remains of leaves at the base. Leaves 

30–70 × 0.3–0.6 cm, linear, dark to greyish green, keeled; keels 

and margin smooth. Peduncle (including raceme), (35–)65–110 

cm long. Raceme 13–26 cm long, at flowering, secund, lax. Bracts 

brown, cuspidate, 6.5–9 × 2–3 mm, serrulate. Perianth white, 

greenishwhite, pale yellow, pendulous, cylindrical, 13–16 mm 

long, not widening at the mouth and not constricting at the base; 

perianth lobes small, 0.5–1 mm long. Pedicel slender 4–6 mm long, 

extending to 7–8 mm long in fruit. Stamens and style only shortly 

exserted up to 3.5 mm long and stamens eventually withdrawn. 

Fruit ovoid and pointed, 6 × 5 mm.


distribution 

Kniphofia isoetifolia 

Description 


distribution 

Fig. 62. 


isoetifolia, 

from Semien 

mountains, 


region. 

KNIPHOFIA 117 

So far, the species is known from a relatively restricted 

area in Shewa region, in wet grassland between 2000 and 

3000 m. It is not known from anywhere else. The main 

flowering period is from June to August. 

4. Kniphofia isoetifolia Steudner ex Hochstetter 

The specific epithet ‘isoetifolia’ refers to the leaves 

(folia) being similar to the non-flowering plant Isoetes. 

The species was described in 1844 from a plant collected 

in Enchet Kab in the Gonder region by Schimper. 

The species is clearly distingished from the other 

species by the head-like (capitate) inflorescence. In 

addition, it is one of the two species (the other is K. 

pumila) that has the flowers opening from top downwards 

(centrifugal). 

Plants slender, usually solitary or sometimes in groups with 5–6 

stems with few fibrous remains of leaves at the base. Roots fusiform. 

Leaves 7–45 × 0.2–1.1 cm, linear, bluish green, keeled; keels and 

margin papillate. Peduncle (including raceme) 9–65 cm long. 

Raceme 4–8 cm long, at flowering, dense or subdense. Bracts white, 

cuspidate, 7–12 × 1–2.5 mm. Perianth pale or bright yellow, orange 

or bright red; pendulous, cylindrical, 30–42 mm long, widening at 

the mouth and constricting at the base; perianth lobes 2.5–3 × 2–2.5 

mm long. Pedicel slender 2–4 mm long, elongating up to 5 mm long 

in fruit. Stamens and style only shortly exserted up to 3–4 mm long 

and stamens eventually withdrawn. 

The species grows on overgrazed hill tops and river 

banks, on steep rocky slopes, and in montane grassland, 

sometimes in wet mea dows between 2050 and 3480 

(–3580) m. It is widespread in Ethiopia, but it is not


Kniphofia insignis 

Description 


June to September. 

5. Kniphofia insignis Rendle 

The specific epithet ‘insignis’ means outstanding, 

probably referring to the unusual, white inflorescences. 

The species was described in 1896 from a plant collected 

from Sheikh Mohammed in the Arsi region by Donaldson 

Smith. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the other 

species by the white perianth, which is unusual in the 

genus, and also by the fusiform roots. 

Plants slender, solitary without fibrous remains of leaves at the base. 

Roots fusiform. Leaves 30–100 × 0.3–1.5 cm, linear, glaucous, 

keeled; keels and margin papillate. Peduncle (including raceme) 

20–65 cm long, sometimes up to 100 cm long in cultivation. Raceme 

8–22 cm long, at flowering, lax. Bracts white, cuspidate, 12–17 × 

2–3 mm. Perianth white, pendulous, cylindrical, 24–28 mm long, 

widening at the mouth and constricting at the base; perianth lobes 

2–3 × 1–2 mm long. Pedicel slender 2.5–4 mm long, elongating to 

5 mm long in fruit. Stamens and style only shortly exserted, up to 3 

Fig. 63. Kniphofia insignis, (left) from near Chancho; (right) from 

cultivation, both in Shewa floristic region.


distribution 

Kniphofia schimperi 

Description 


distribution 

KNIPHOFIA 119 

mm long, stamens eventually withdrawn. Fruit ovoid and pointed, 

8–9 × 6 mm. 

The species often grows in water-logged or flooded 

meadows between 2500 and 3100 m. It is so far only 

known from the Shewa and Arsi region. The main 

flowering period is from June to September. 

The plants occur scattered, and it is commonly seen 

in the Sululta plains between Addis Ababa and Chancho 

during its flowering period. 

6. Kniphofia schimperi Baker 

The specific epithet ‘schimperi’ was given in honour 

of the famous German collector, George Wilhelm 

Schimper, from whose collection the type of the species 

was designated. The species was described by Baker in 

1874 from a plant collected from DebreTabor in Gonder 

region. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the related 

species, K. thomsonii, by the lax inflorescence, with 1–3 

flowers per cm, usually growing towards one side of the 

inflorescence, and the narrow bracts, only 1.2–2 mm 

wide. 


30–50 × 0.4–1 cm, linear, dark green, keeled; keels and margin 

minutely papilosescabrid or smooth. Peduncle (including raceme) 

43–130 cm long. Raceme 15–35(–52) cm long, secund, lax, flowers 

1–3(–4) per cm. Bracts white, cuspidate, 5–12 × 1.2–2 mm. Perianth 

orange red, pale red to orange, pendulous, cylindrical, 15–26 mm 

long, widening at the mouth and not constricting at the base; 

perianth lobes 1.5–2.5 × 1–2 mm long. Pedicel slender 1.5–4.5 mm 

long. Stamens and style only shortly exserted, up to 3.5 mm long, 

stamens eventually withdrawn. Fruit ovoid, ca. 8 × 5 mm. 

The species grows on steep grassy or stony slopes on 

rocky outcrops and hillsides between 1500 and 3000 m. 

It is so far known only from montane areas in Gonder, 

Gojam, Welo, Shewa, Arsi, and Bale regions in Ethiopia, 

and in Eritrea. The main flowering period is from July 

to October. 

The species is found as scattered plants within its 

habitat, as seen on the Entoto ridge north of Addis Ababa 

on the way to Chancho.


Fig. 64 (left): 


schimperi, from 

Entoto, Shewa 


Fig. 65 (right): 


thomsonii, from 

Mt. Kenya, 

Kenya. 

Kniphofia thomsonii 

Description 


distribution 

7. Kniphofia thomsonii Baker 

The specific epithet ‘thomsonii’ was given in honour of 

the collector, Thomson, from whose collection the type 


by Baker in 1885 from a plant collected from Kilimanjaro 

in Tanzania. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the 

related species, K. schimperi by the somewhat denser 

inflorescence, with 5–10 flowers per cm, usually growing 

on all sides of the inflorescence, and the wider bracts. 


linear, keeled; keels and margin minutely papillosescabrid or 

smooth. Peduncle (including raceme) 40–65 cm long. Raceme 

lax to subdense. Bracts white, of variable width. Perianth yellow, 

orange, lemonyellow to orangered, pendulous, cylindrical, 23–25 

mm long, widening at the mouth, more or less constricted at the 

base. Stamens and style only shortly exserted, up to 2.5 mm long, 

stamens eventually withdrawn. 

The species grows on steep grassy or rocky slopes and 

marshy ground between 2400 and 3650 m in the Shewa, 

Arsi, Bale, Sidamo, and Harerge floristic regions. It also 

occurs in Kenya and Tanzania. The main flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from June to September.

Bulbine abyssinica 

Description 


distribution 

2. BULBINE Wolf 

BULBINE JODRELLIA 121 

The genus includes plants with more or less fleshy leaves. 

The inflorescence is a many-flowered raceme, where 

the lower pedicels are longer than the upper, making it 

umbel-like or corymbose. The flowers are bright yellow 

with free, subequal, spreading, oneveined tepals. The 

filaments are densely covered with long hairs. The 

capsules are subglobose, and the seeds are angled and 

dark brown. 

The genus is African, represented by about 50 species, 

with a centre of diversity in the south. Only one species 

reaches Ethiopia. 

Bulbine abyssinica A. Richard 

The species epithet refers to Abyssinia, the former name 

of Ethiopia, from where it was described by A. Richard in 

1851, based on material from Tigray. The yellow flowers 

and the hairy filaments make it different from all other 

lilies of Ethiopia. 

Perennial herb, often forming clumps. Leaves 7–30 × 0.2–0.5 

cm, gradually dilating to a broad sheathing membranaceous base, 

sometimes covered by fibres. Scapes (including the raceme) 10–50 

cm long, several on each plant, erect or curved. Bracts cuspidate, 

6–15 × 2–3 mm long. Raceme 2.5–20 cm long, dense-flowered in 

the upper part; pedicel patent to erect, 1.5–2.5 cm long, elongating 

to 3 cm in fruit. Tepals bright yellow, sometimes with a purplish to 

reddishbrown stripe on the outside, subequal, 6–9 × 2–2.5 mm. 

Filaments 3–5 mm long, densely covered with long yellow hairs, 

especially in the middle to upper part; anthers ca. 3 mm. Capsule 

subglobose, constricted at the base, 3–5 × 3–4 mm. Seeds almost 

smooth, ca. 2.5 mm in diameter. 

This species is found in degraded Acacia bushland, 

Acacia-Combretum bushland, or in grassland, on reddishbrown 

loamy soil or on sand between 1200 and 1750 m. It 

occurs in the Tigray, Welo, Shewa, Sidamo, and Harerge 

floristic regions. Elsewhere it occurs in Somalia, Kenya, 

Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda and Zaire. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to May.


Fig. 66. Bulbine 

abyssinica, from 




3. JODRELLIA Baijnath 

The genus includes plants closely related to Bulbine, 

differing in the flower colour, which are pinkish rather 

than yellow, and the outer tepals that have 35 rather 

than one vein. In 1978 H. Baijnath transferred it to his 

new genus Jodrellia, which is named after the Jodrell 

Laboratory in Kew, England. 

The genus is distributed from Namibia (Kaprivi strip) 

and Zimbabwe, along Eastern Africa, to Ethiopia and 

Somalia. It includes two or three species. The taxonomy 

of the species within the genus is still slightly confused. 

In Ethiopia there are probably two species, one with 

non-inflated fruits and almost smooth seeds in the north 

(Jodrellia fistulosa), and another with inflated fruits and 

warty (verrucose) seeds in the south (J. macrocarpa). 

1. Capsules 4.5–5.5 × 4–5 mm, non-inflated; seed surface almost smooth; 

pedicels shorter than bracts 1. J. fistulosa 

- Capsules 8–15 × 12–22 mm, inflated; seed surface verrucose; 

pedicels longer than bracts 2. J. macrocarpa

Jodrellia fistulosa 

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Jodrellia macrocarpa 

1. Jodrellia fistulosa (Chiovenda) Baijnath 

JODRELLIA 123 

The species epithet refers to the ‘fistulose’ leaves, 

meaning that they are cylindrical and hollow. Chi ovenda 

described the species in the genus Bulbine in 1911 based 

on material obtained from Tigray floristic region. It 

differs from J. ma crocarpa by its non-inflated capsules 

and almost smooth seeds. It is, however, possible that the 

non-inflated fruits in J. fistulosa is due to young stage 

in the only collection from Ethiopia, and that only one 

species occurs in the area. 

Erect perennial herb 30–40 cm tall. Leaves glabrous, terete to 

fistulose, up to 55 × 0.8 cm, gradually dilating to a broad sheathing 

base. Inflorescence racemose. Scape (including the raceme) 12–30 

cm long, shorter than the leaves. Raceme dense, 15–40-flowered, 

1.5–7 cm long. Bracts 5–14 mm × 1.5–4 mm, whitish, transparent, 

lanceolate, apex filiform. Pedicels 5–10 mm long, slender, recurved 

after flowering. Tepals whitish to pinkish, with slightly cucullate 

apex; outer segments, 6 × 2 mm, 3nerved; inner ones 5 × 1 mm, 

1nerved. Ovary obovoid with papillose stigma, 3locular with 2 

ovules in each locule. Capsule 4–5 × 3–4 mm long, not inflated. 

Seeds few, darkbrown to black, slightly angled, dark brown, almost 

smooth, c. 2 mm across, with a hook. 

The species has been collected close to rivers around 

900 m. So far it is only known from the Tigray floristic 

region (Tekeze river valley) and from Eritrea. According 

to the monographer of the genus, Baijnath, the Ethiopian 

Soma li an plants are conspecific with plants collected in 

Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia (the Kaprivi 

Strip), but more comparative studies are needed. The 

Ethi opian plants have not been collected during their 

flowering period, but fruiting plants are recorded in 

August. 

Baijnath regarded J. fistulosa to be con specific also 

with J. migiurtina (Chiov.) Baijnath, described from 

Somalia. If the two species turn out to be conspecific, J. 

fistulosa, the older name will have priority. 

2. Jodrellia macrocarpa Baijnath 

The species epithet ’macrocarpa’ refers to the inflated 

fruits (in Greek, macro = large, carpus = fruit). It was 

described in 1978 by Baijnath based on material from 

Northern Kenya. It differs from the other species by its


Fig. 67. Jodrellia 

macrocarpa, 

from Sof Omar, 


region. 

Description 

inflated fruits and warty (verrucose) seeds. In the Flora of 

Ethiopia and Eritrea this species was wrongly referred to 

Jodrellia miguirtina (Chiov.) Baijnath, a species described 

from Somalia. Mats Thulin,who revised the genus for the 

Flora of Somalia, observed, however, that this species 

apparently has smooth seeds. The difference between J. 

fistulosa and J. mi guirtina thus becomes unclear. And if 

the postulated non-inflated fruits of J. fistulosa turn out to 

be due to the young stage of the only known collection in 

Ethiopia (see above), then also J. macrocarpa will have 

to be sunk into J. fistulosa. More studies are needed! 

Erect perennial herb 15–40 cm tall. Rhizome short with many 

fleshy roots. Leaves glabrous succulent, terete, 20–38 × 0.2–0.6 

cm. Inflorescence racemose. Scape (including the inflorescence) 

7–18 cm long, shorter than the leaves. Raceme 2–6 cm long, 

dense; pedicels 8.5–16 mm long, slender, recurved. Bracts white, 

transparent, 4–5( –8) × 1 2 mm, lanceolate, cuspidate. Tepals 

whitish to pinkish, with apex slightly cucullate, outer, 3–5 × 1–1.5 

mm, narrowly elliptical, 3–5veined; inner 3–4.5 × 0.6–1 mm, oneveined. 

Filaments ca. 2 mm long, densely covered with long hairs in 

the apical part; anthers c. 2 mm. Capsule inflated and globose, 8–15 

× 8–15 mm, indehiscent (?); seeds 1–2 dark–brown, 4–4.5 × 2–2.5 

mm, with verrucose surface.


distribution 

Trachyandra saltii 

Description 

JODRELLIA TRACHYANDRA 125 

The plants grow on rocky slopes with mixed woodland 

of Acacia, Commiphora, and Delonix, around 900 m. 

It is a nearendemic species, only known from the Bale 

floristic region and the adjacent parts of Somalia and 

Northern Kenya. The species has only been collected 

in the fruiting stage from April to May, thus it probably 

flowers sometimes in March to April. 

4. TRACHYANDRA Kunth 

The genus includes grasslike pubescent plants, growing 

from a vertical rhizome with fleshy roots. There are 

several inflorescences per plant. The flowers are open, 

starlike, with subequal, onenerved, white tepals. The 

stamens are subequal, the filaments scabrid, but never 

hairy. The capsules are subglobose, with few to many 

seeds. 

The genus is predominantly South African, with about 

50 species, of which most are endemic in the winter 

rainfall areas in southwestern Cape. Only one species 

reaches north of the equator and to Ethiopia and Yemen. 

Trachyandra saltii (Baker) Oberm. 

The species epithet refers to the collector, Salt, who 

collected the plant somewhere in Ethiopia; precise 

locality not known. It was described by Baker as a species 

in the genus Anthericum in 1876, and transferred to 

Trachyandra by Obermeyer in 1962. This species looks 

superficially like an Anthe ricum, but it has the typical Aspho 

delaceae traits in chemistry and seeds. 

Short vertical rhizome with many fleshy roots and sometimes 

with fibres from previous years leaves. Leaves, up to 35 × 0.4 

cm, slightly olive-green, filiform to linear, gradually expanding to 

broad sheathing membranaceous base, more or less pubescent with 

long white hairs. Scapes (including the inflorescence) pubescent, 

13–45 cm long, curved near the base. Raceme lax; bracts narrow, 

cuspidate, up to 10 mm long; pedicels 8–15(–20) mm long, patent 

or recurved, elongating somewhat in fruit. Tepals white, c. 10 

mm long, with a brownish dorsal median band; stamens slightly 

shorter than the tepals, anthers light yellow, ca. 1mm long. Capsule 

subglobose, c. 5 mm in diameter, constricted at the base, with dull, 

greyish, angled seeds.


Fig. 68. Trachyandra saltii, from cultivation in Addis Ababa, original 

material obtained from Sidamo floristic region. 


distribution 

This species is found in AcaciaCom mi pho raTerminalia 

woodland, bushland, in grassland with scattered trees, 

on rocky outcrops, or in disturbed Juniperus pro cera 

woodland. it grows on eroded sandy soils, red loamy 

soil, or black cotton soil, between 1250 and 2100 m. It 

occurs in the Si damo, Bale, and Harerge floristic regions, 

and it is otherwise widespread from Cape in the south 

through the eastern parts of Africa, north to Yemen. The 

main flowering period in Ethiopia is from March to May, 

in the south also with a second period from November 

to January.



Reproduction 

ANTHERICACEAE 

ANTHERICUM 127 

In this family the underground organ is a rhizome or 

corm (never a bulb), which, when cut, is whitish (never 

yellowish) inside. The leaves are organised in a basal 

rosette, sometimes in two ranks (distichous). The peduncle 

(scape) is most often leafless, but may also carry leaves 

(as in Chlorophytum longifolium and C. ducis-aprutii). 

The inflorescence is branched (paniculate) or unbranched 

(racemose or spicate). The flowers are regular to slightly 

irregular with free tepals, white or whitish, often with 

a green, red or brown keel. The stamens have filiform 

to fusiform filaments, and the anthers open with splits 

inwards (introrse dehiscence). The ovary is subdivided 

in three chambers with several ovules per chamber, fixed 

on a central column (axile placentation). The style is 

slender with a small stigma. The fruit is a capsule that 

opens by three slits between the three septa (loculicidal 

dehiscence). The seeds are black, often glossy, and may 

also be papillose. 

Anthericaceae is a tropical and temperate family with 9 

genera and c. 200 species, distributed mainly in Africa, 

Europe, Asia and the Americas, extending to North 

Australia. Two of the genera occur in Africa. In Ethiopia 

and Eritrea ca. 30 species have been found. The family is 

closely related to Asphodelaceae, and it may sometimes 

be difficult to distinguish on gross morphology. The genus 

Trachyandra, which is now included in Asphodelaceae, 

was in fact up to the 1960’s included in the genus 

Anthericum. However, representatives of Asphodelaceae 

always contain anthraquinones, a yellow coloured 

chemical compound, which is revealed when the rhizome 

is cut; in Anthericaceae the rhizomes are whitish inside. 

The seeds of Asphodelaceae have an extra cell layer 

(aril) covering the black seed coat, making the seeds dull 

greyish, not black and glossy as in Anthericaceae. 

The walls separating the three chambers of the ovaries 

contain nectar producing areas (septal glands). The

128 ANTHERICACEAE 


use 

Conservation 

nectar is excreted from small pores and gathers in the 

bottom of the flowers. There does not seem to be any 

sophisticated pollination adaptations, and the flowers 

are probably pollinated by flies and bees (or some of the 

small flowered species might be self-pollinated). 

The capsules open by splits from the top and the seed 

dispersal mechanism is probably ballistic, meaning that 

the seeds are held on the mother plant until a strong 

blow from the outside releases the seeds. Some species, 

however, release the seeds on the ground, possibly for 

small animals to carry them further away. 

The flowers of most species are not particularly showy, 

and with few exceptions the plants are not grown as 

ornamentals. One exception is Chlorophytum comosum, 

‘the mother and child plant’, which is grown for the foliage 

(often variegated, yellow and green striped) and for the 

small plantlets that develop from the inflorescence. 

Steroidal saponins are common in the family and 

cyanogenic glycosides are reported from Chlorophytum, 

both substances probably reduce herbivory. 

Six of the species in this family are strictly endemic to 

Ethiopia/Eritrea, i.e. Anthericum neghellense, Chlo rophytum 

ducis-aprutii, C. herrmanni, C. pseudocaule, 

C. pterocarpum, and C. serpens. In addition, seven 

species are nearendemic, only occurring in adjacent 

localities in Kenya, Somalia and Yemen, i.e. Anthericum 

jamesii, A. tetraphyllum, Chlorophytum bifolium, 

C. inconspicuum, C. zavattarii, C. humi fusum, and C. 

pendulum. Ethiopia has a special responsibilty to survey 

and conserve these species, which constitute c. 40% of 

the species of the family in the study area. The Horn of 

Africa represents an important centre of diversity for the 

family Anthericaceae. 

As far as we know, the plants are neither sought after 

as ornamentals, nor have they been utilised in Ethiopia 

as medicine or food. The only threat to the species is 

probably habitat destruction. Species that only exist in 

a single locality, as e.g. C. pterocarpum, are certainly 

vulnerable.

Key to the genera 


1. Roots somewhat swollen rarely with tubers; if there are more than one flower 

at a node, the number of flowers equals the number of bracts; pedicels without 

a joint (not articulated); seeds ± solid or turgid 1. Anthericum 

- Roots swollen or if not, carrying tubers; flowers most often more than one 

at each node of the inflorescence or, if only one, supported by two bracts; 

pedicels most often with a joint (articulated); seeds ± thin, flat or folded 

2. Chlorophytum 

1. ANTHERICUM L. 

The genus includes small plants, up to 20 cm tall. The 

rhizome is very short and the roots more or less swollen 

sometimes with distal tubers. The leaves are linear to 

lanceolate, sometimes slightly succulent. The peduncles, 

often several to a plant, are reduced (in A. angu stifolium 

and A. tetraphyllum), or stepwise contracted (in A. 

neghellense). The flowers are in umbel-like or in racemose 

inflorescences. The pedicels lack the joint (articulation) 

that characterises most species of Chlorophytum. The 

tepals are white, often with a green keel. The capsules are 

rounded or shallowly threelobed in cross section. The 

seeds are ± turgid. 

The delimitation of this genus in relation to Chlorophytum 

has varied much through time. Several species 

were transferred from Anthericum to Chlorophytum 

by Kativu & Nordal (1993). And recently, two species 

that were referred to Chlorophytum in the first edition 

of this book and in the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

(Nordal 1997), have been transferred to Anthericum: 

A. neghellense (Cufodontis) Bjorå & Sebsebe and A. 

tetraphyllum (L.f.) Nordal & Sebsebe. As circumscribed 

at present, the genus belongs mainly in the temperate to 

subtropical parts of the Old World and includes ca.10 

species. Recent molecular analyses might indicate that 

the African species of Anthericum do not belong in the 

same monophyletic group as the two common European 

ones, A. racemosum L. and A. liliago L. (Bjorå 2008). 

In that case the African ones will have to be referred to 

a new genus. More work is needed. In American floras 

the genus Anthericum is also reported to occur also in



the New World, but these species should probably be 

referred to another genus. Five species of Anthericum 

occur in Tropical Africa south to northern Tanzania, all 

of them are found in Ethiopia. All of them appear to be 

connected to ± disturbed habitats, and speciation might 

have taken place in the Horn of Africa in relation to 

human activities. 

1. Peduncle completely reduced (rarely up to 1 cm) ; inflorescence ± umbel-like 

with pedicels, (15–) 25–80 mm long, emerging directly from the the leaf rosette 

2 

- Peduncle distinct, (2–) 3–15 cm long; inflorescence racemose, unbranched 

or with few basal branches, pedicels shorter than 25 mm long 3 

2. Leaves 1–3 cm wide; peduncle up to 1 cm long; pedicels (15–) 25–30 mm long 

4. A. tetraphyllum 

- Leaves up to 0,5 cm wide; peduncle completely reduced; pedicels 30–80 mm 

long 5. A. angustifolium 

3. Peduncles erect, infloresecence an ordinary raceme, without contractions 4 

- Peduncles prostrate, inflorescence with partially contracted internodes 

3. A. neghellense 

4. Leaves ca. 0.5 cm wide, slightly succulent and tubular; inflorescence never 

branched; capsules slightly ridged, but not verrucose (i.e. without wart-like 

outgrowths) 1. A. corymbosum 

- Leaves ca. 1cm wide, flat; inflorescence often with 1–3 basal branches; 

capsules verrucose (i.e. with wart-like outgrowths) 2. A. jamesii 

Anthericum 

corymbosum 

1. Anthericum corymbosum Baker 

The specific epithet ‘corymbosum’ refers to the inflorescence, 

a corymb, which is a kind of raceme where the 

lower pedicels are much longer than the upper ones. 

The species was described by Baker in 1877, based on 

material from Somalia, collected by Hildebrandt. It is 

easily recognised from Anthericum angustifolium and A. 

tetraphyllum by the distinct peduncle and the racemose 

inflorescence and from A. neghellense by its erect 

peduncle.

Description 


distribution 

Anthericum jamesii 

Description 


distribution 


Plants 10–20 cm high. Leaves linear, 5–25 × 0.2–0.8 cm, often 

ciliate margins, more or less succulent. Peduncles often several to a 

plant, 3–15 cm long, glabrous, Inflorescence a simple raceme, 3–6 

cm long with 3–12 flowers. Pedicels semi-patent, 5–25 mm long, 

elongating to 40 mm with age. Flowers white with green stripes 

on the outside; tepals 9–10 × 2–3 mm. Capsule slightly ridged, but 

not verrucose, 4–8 mm long, subglobose with a rounded triangular 

cross section. Seeds 2–3 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in clumps in grassland, bushland and 

more or less degraded Acacia-Combretum woodland, 

also in destroyed former Juniperus forest; on black soils, 

seasonally waterlogged, or on lighter brownish to reddish 

soils; often in areas heavily grazed and eroded, between 

1000 and 2850 m. It is recorded in the Harerge, Bale and 

Sidamo floristic regions. It has otherwise been recorded 

from Somalia, Kenya and Northern Tanzania. The 

flowering period in Ethiopia appears to be two-peaked; 

flowering specimens have been collected in April and in 

November. 

2. Anthericum jamesii Baker 

The species epithet ‘jamesii’ refers to one of the two 

persons who collected the plant for the first time, that 

are the pioneers James and Thrupp, in Somalia in the late 

19 th century. It was described by Baker in 1898, and it has 

only rarely been collected later. 

Plants, up to 15 cm. Leaves sheathing into a neck, 3–5 cm long, 

linear, 10–15 × ca. 1 cm, with scabrid margins. Peduncle (above 

the neck) 2–4 cm long. Inflorescence a raceme, often with one or 

two basal branches, 5–10 cm long with 10–15 flowers. Pedicels 

semipatent, c. 10 mm long at anthesis, elongating with age. Flowers 

similar to those of A. corymbosum. Capsules distinctly verrucose, 

otherwise similar to those of A. corymbosum. 

This is a rare species growing in clearings in bush, 

temporarily waterlogged on red sandy soil around 800 

m, in the Harerge floristic region, and it is otherwise 

only known from adjacent parts of Somalia and Kenya. 

Flowering specimens have only been observed in 

October.


Fig. 69. 

Anthericum 

neghellense, 

from near 

Negelle, Sidamo 


Anthericum 

neghellense 

Description 


distribution 

3. Anthericum neghellense (Cufodontis) Bjorå & 

Sebsebe 

The species epithet refers to Negelle, a township in the 

Sidamo region, from where Cufodontis collected the 

plant which he described in the genus Chlorophytum in 

1939. Molecular analyses and a further analyses of the 

inflorescence morphology have revealed that it belongs 

in a monophyletic group together with the other African 

representatives of Anthericum. Bjorå & Sebsebe have 

accordingly made the formal transfer to the genus where 

it belongs. It can be recognised from the other Anthericum 

species by its completely prostrate life form, i.e. leaves, 

flowers and fruits lying flat on the ground (which might 

be an adaption to avoid her bivory). 

Small prostrate plants. Rhizome horizontal with fiber remnants from 

old leaves; roots thin with small (ca. 1 × 0.3 cm) tubers on lateral 

root branches. Leaves rosulate, lanceolate, obtuse with a hyaline, 

ciliate, often crisply undulate margin, 6–20 × 1.5–2.5 cm. Peduncle 

2–3 (–5) cm, prostrate. Inflorescence unbranched, or rarely with 

one basal branch, 4–12 cm long, flat on the ground. Bracts large 

and leaflike, with several veins, ciliate margin, up to 15 × 5 mm. 

Flowers 2–4 at each node. Pedicels curved, c. 10 mm at anthesis, 

elongating in fruit stage. Flowers white, tepals patent, c. 8 mm long 

with 3–5 veins. Stamens shorter than the tepals, and filaments c. 4 

mm, anthers shorter and coiled after anthesis. Infru tescence more 

or less hidden under the leaves; capsules trigonous, slightly ridged, 

6–8 × 4–5 mm, seeds irregularly folded, 2 mm across. 

The species belongs in Acacia-Combre tum-Commiphora 

dominated woodland to degraded bushland, often heavily

Anthericum 

tetraphyllum 

Description 

Fig. 70. 

Anthericum 

tetraphyllum, 

from Entoto, 


region. 


grazed, on red (rarely black) sandy soils between 1050 

and 1700 m. It only occurs in Sidamo and Bale floristic 

regions, not known anywhere else. The main flowering 

period is twopeaked, like in other south Ethiopian 

geophy tes, March to April and October to November. The 

fruits and seeds are hidden under the leaves of the mother 

plant, indicating some kind of dispersal mechanism by 

ants or other small animals. More studies are needed. 

4. Anthericum tetraphyllum (L.f.) Nordal & 

Sebsebe 

The species epithet ‘tetraphyllum’ means four-leaved, 

although this is not an absolute trait, the number will most 

often be more than four. It was described as early as 1781 

by the son of Linnaeus, based on material from Yemen. 

He placed it in the genus Scilla. It was later transferred 

to Chlo rophytum by Baker in 1876. Recent analyses have 

shown that it belongs in a group of African Anthericum 

species, to which it has been transferred by Nordal and 

Sebsebe (2010). It appears to be closest related to A. 

neghellense, but the inflorescence is not prostrate, but it 

is more contracted. The two species share the btrait of 

having fruits and seeds hidden below the leaves. 

Small plants. Rhizome short; roots swollen, often also with elongated 

tubers up to 4 cm long. Leaves rosulate, lanceolate, acute, with a 

hyaline ciliate margin, 3–25 × 1–3 cm. Peduncle reduced, hidden 

amongst the leaf bases. Floral bracts large and leaflike, with several 

strong veins, 20–40 × 2–4 mm. Rachis most often reduced making 

the inflorescence umbel-like, sometimes a few umbel-like clusters 

along an up to 1 cm axis. Pedicels recurved, (15–) 2530 mm. 

Flowers white, tepals patent to reflexed, 6–8 mm, 3-veined. Stamens



distribution 

Anthericum 

angustifolium 

Description 

Fig. 71. 

Anthericum 

angustifolium, 

from Debre 

Libanos. Shewa 


shorter than the tepals, and filaments longer than the anthers which 

are bright orange. Capsules subglobose, slightly trigonous, ca. 3 

mm long. Seeds irregularly folded, ca. 1 mm across. 

This species is found in open scrub or grassland on reddish 

or blackish heavy soils, often in degraded and overgrazed 

habitats between 1250 and 3400 m. It is widespread in 

Ethiopia, recorded from the Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, 

Welo, Shewa, Arsi, Wel lega, Sidamo and Bale floristic 

regions. Otherwise it is only known from Eritrea and 

Yemen. 

With the tolerance for heavy disturbance and the 

wide distribution within Ethiopia, it is interesting that it 

has (almost) not reached outside Ethiopia/Eritrea. The 

species might have originated with the very early human 

influence in the region, and with its restricted potential 

for dispersal it has remained a nearendemic plant. 

Species that may grow in overexploited areas represent 

interesting genetic resour ces for revegetation and 

rehabilitation of heavily degraded areas. The flowering 

period is from April to July. 

5. Anthericum angustifolium Hochst. ex A. Rich. 

The specific epithet ‘angustifolium’ refers to the narrow 

leaves. The species was na med by Hochstetter and 

published by Richard in 1851, based on material from 

Tig ray, collected by a French botanist, QuartinDillon. 

Small plants up to 10 cm. Leaves linear, 5–10 × 0.2–0.5 cm, glabrous 

or with ciliate margins. Peduncle very short and hidden among the 

leaves; rachis almost completely reduced, making the inflorescence 

umbellike rather than racemose. Pedicels 30–80 mm long. Flowers 

white, slightly greenish outside, starlike, 1–10 to a plant; tepals 

8–12 × 2–3 mm, three–veined. Stamens shorter than the tepals, with 

filaments ca. 4 mm, and longer than the yellow anthers, which are


distribution 

ANTHERICUM CHLOROPHYTUM 135 

curled after anthesis. Capsules 5–8 mm long, subglobose, smooth or 

slightly ridged, on reflexed pedicels so that they end up lying on the 

ground. Seeds c. 2 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in clumps in upland grassland, 

seasonally waterlogged, often heavily grazed and eroded, 

on black shallow soils; mainly between 2000 and 3000 

m. It is recorded from the Tigray, Gonder, We lo, Shewa, 

and Gamo Gofa floristic regions in Ethiopia and from 

Eritrea. It is otherwise known from Ugan da and Kenya. 

The flowering period in Ethiopia is from July to August. 

The fact that the plants release the seeds at ground level 

might indicate ant dispersal, a possibility which should 

be further analysed. 

2. CHLOROPHYTUM Ker-Gawl. 

The plants are very variable in size and robustness, 

reaching from 5 cm to more than 1 m. The rhizome is 

reduced or prominent, sometimes moniliform (that is 

consisting of a series of attached corms in a chain); roots 

either swollen without tubers or more or less wiry with 

distinct tubers. The basal leaves are organised in rosettes 

or in two ranks (distichous), linear to broadly lanceolate, 

sometimes narrowed towards the base to a pseudopetiole 

(denoted ‘petiolate’). The peduncles are leafless or they 

carry lea ves. The inflorescence is spicate, racemose or 

paniculate and complicated in the sense that each node 

carries more than one bract and most often also more 

than one flower. In contrast to Anthericum species with 

complex nodes (as in e.g. A. neghellense), the nodes 

always display one more bract than number of flowers 

(in Anthericum the number of bracts equals the number 

of flowers). This phenomenon indicates that the present 

species of Chlorophytum might have evolved from 

ancestral species with richly branched inflorescences 

that have undergone reductions and contractions of 

lateral branches. The pedicels, with very few exceptions, 

have a distinct joint (articulation), which may represent 

the remnants of former bracts, again reduced through 

evolution. The tepals are white, with or without greenish 

or reddish stripes on the outside. The capsules are more 

or less triangular (trigonous) to deeply threelobed 

(triquetrous) in cross section. The seeds are thin, flat or



sharply folded. By the traits of the multi brac teate nodes, 

the articulated pedicels, and the thin flat to folded seeds, 

Chlorophytum is more or less easily distinguished from 

Anthericum. 

Chlorophytum is an Old World tropical genus with 

about 150 species, and with the main center of diversity 

in Tropical Africa. Since the treatment of the genus in 

the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (Nordal 1997), the 

widespread, mainly West African rainforest species, 

C. filipendulum Baker has been recorded in the Kefa 

region, and three new species have been described from 

the Wellega region (C. herrmanni Nordal & Sebsebe, C. 

serpens Sebsebe & Nordal and C. pseudocaule Tesfaye 

& Nordal). Two species, C. neghellense Cufodontis and 

C. tetraphyllum (L.f.) Baker,, have been transferred to 

Anthericum, making the number species of Chlorophytum 

in Ethiopia and Eritrea, 25. The spe cies C. tordense 

Chiov. of the Flora has in the meantime been reduced to 

C. affine Baker. 

1. Pedicels apparently without a joint; peduncle less than 3 cm long; the flowers 

and fruits appearing within the leaf rosette 1. C. geophilum 

- Pedicels with a joint (difficult to see when it is situated immediately below the 

flower, as in C. longifolium and C. silvaticum), peduncle most often longer than 

3 cm (shorter in C. inconspicuum) 2 

2. Peduncle with leaves all along its length 3 

- Peduncles wihout leaves, except occasionally 1-2 sterile bracts just below 

the inflorescence. 5 

3. Inflorescence papillate or pubescent; flowers bell-shaped; tepals covering the 

ovary at anthesis, papillate on the inside just above the ovary 

2. C. longifolium 

- Inflorescence glabrous; flowers open, star-shaped; tepals not covering the 

ovary at anthesis, not papillate 4 

4. Leaves produced with the flowers; capsules not ridged, triquetrous, deeply 

three-lobed in cross-section; seeds flat 4. C. ducis-aprutii 

Leaves produced after the flowers; capsules transversely ridged, trigonous 

with shallow lobes in cross-section; seeds irregularly folded 5. C. nubicum 

5. All nodes of the inflorescence with a single flower (rarely 2 flowers at the 

lowermost node in C. bifolium) 6

CHLOROPHYTUM 137 

- At least some of the lower nodes of the inflorescence with 2 or more flowers 10 

6. Flowers subsessile, the very short pedicels articulated at the apex; perianth 

± bell-shaped, tepals erect and papillate inside in a zone just above the ovary, 

each tepal with 1 vein. 3. C. silvaticum 

- Flowers distinctly pedicellate, the pedicels articulated below the apex; 

perianth glabrous with ± patent tepals, each with 3 veins. 7 

7. Flowers zygomorphic with tepals longer than 10 mm; capsule usually at least 

10 mm long 6. C. somaliense 

- Flowers regular with tepals shorter than 7 mm; capsule less than 8 mm long 8 

8. Plants with trailing inflorescence axis, longer than 10 cm; plantlets present 

in the inflorescence (‘pseudovivipary’) 22. C. serpens 

- Plants with erect inflorescences axis, shorter than 7 cm, plantlets absent in the 

inflorescence 9 

9. Pedicels articulated near the middle; inflorescence ± pubesent; capsules 

trigonous with shallow lobes; seeds about 2 mm wide 7. C. bifolium 

- Pedicels articulated near the apex; inflorescence glabrous; capsules triquetrous 

with winglike compartments; seeds 3–4 mm wide 8. C. pterocarpum 

10. Leaves filiform, 0.1–0.3 cm wide, folded; tepals up to 5 mm long 

9. C. inconspicuum 

- Leaves lanceolate, more than 0.3 cm wide; tepals more than 5 mm long 11 

11. Tepals 6–9 mm wide, with 9 or more veins 10. C. tuberosum 

- Tepals less than 6 mm wide, with 3–5(–7) veins 12 

12. Pedicels stiffly patent, with joint in the upper part, the lower ones more 

than 15 mm long 11. C. zavattarii 

- Pedicels not stiffly patent, with joint near the middle or in the lower half, 

up to 10 mm long 13 

13. Peduncle and inflorescence prostrate, displaying the flowers on the ground 14 

- Peduncle and inflorescence erect, flowers displayed above-ground 15 

14. Roots wiry with tubers on short lateral branches; leaves distichous, glabrous 

up to 1 cm wide; inflorescence unbranched (rarely with one basal branch); 

bracts inconspicuous, up to 4 mm long 12. C. humifusum 

- Roots fleshy without tubers; leaves rosulate with cilia along margins and 

on the nerves below, more than 2 cm wide; inflorescence much branched; 

bracts large, more than 1 cm long 13. C. herrmannii


15. Roots wiry with tubers on short lateral branches; flowers greenish 16 

- Root tubers as swellings in the distal parts of the roots, not on lateral branches, 

or roots fusiform and fleshy without tubers; flowers whitish to brownish 17 

16. Leaves produced with the flowers; tepals 5–7 mm long 14. C. gallabatense 

- Leaves produced after the flowers; tepals up to 5 mm long 15. C. micranthum 

17. Pedicels ± drooping at anthesis, completely drooping in fruit, capsules pendant, 

pyramide shaped. 16. C. pendulum 

- Pedicels patent to erect at all stages, capsules erect, shaped differently 18 

18. Leaves distichous; seeds irregularly folded 19 

- Leaves rosulate; seeds flat to saucershaped 21 

19. Roots fleshy, fusiform, without tubers 17. C. subpetiolatum 

- Roots thin, wiry with distal tubers 20 

20. Leaves up to 0.6 cm wide; peduncle pubescent; tepals less than 10 mm long, 

with 3 veins 18. C. affine 

- Leaves usually more than 0.6 cm wide; peduncle glabrous; tepals 15 mm 

or more long, with 5–7 veins 19. C. cameronii 

21. Leaf bases producing a prominent pseudostem up to 40 cm long; roots, thick 

spongy without tubers 20. C. pseudocaule 

- Leaf bases not forming prominent pseudostem; roots medium thick with 

elongated tubers 22 

22. Inflorescence elongated to up 75 cm, lax, with internodes 1–2 cm long; often 

with small plantlets at the nodes (‘pseudovivipary’); capsules up to 5 (–6) cm 

long 21. C. comosum 

- Inflorescence up to 40 (rarely 50) cm long, dense, with internodes less than 

1 cm long; without small plantlets in the inflorescence; capsules (5–) 6–10 mm 

23 

23. Plants drying yellowish to brownish; pedicels 9 mm or longer; tepals 

longer than 9 mm, capsules triangular in cross section 23. C. macrophyllum 

- Plants drying blackish; pedicels shorter than 9 mm; tepals shorter than 9 mm; 

capsules deeply 3-lobed in cross section 24 

24. Plants without ciliate basal leaves (cataphylls); leaves petiolate, margin 

at most scabrous, never ciliateregion 24. C. filipendulum 

- Plants with ciliate cataphylls; leaves without a petiole, margin ciliate; 

recorded from the Tigray, Gojam and Illubabor 25. C. blepharophyllum

Chlorophytum 

geophilum 

Description 


distribution 

1. Chlorophytum geophilum Poellnitz 


This species was described by the German botanist von 

Poellnitz in 1943, based on specimens from Tanzania. 

The species epitet (geo=earth, soil; philum=loving) 

refers to the prostrate growth habit and reduced peduncle, 

inferring that all parts of the plants will be close to the 

ground. 

Plants up to 5 cm high. Rhizome short, carrying thin roots with 

elongated tubers. Leaves in a prostrate rosette, lanceolate, petiolate, 

glabrous, up to 20 cm long and 4–8 cm wide with prominent veins. 

Peduncle, if present, shorter than 2 cm, so that the inflorescence 

appears at ground-level among the leaves. Inflorescence up to 

5 cm long, dense, often branched, sometimes looking almost 

capitate; floral bracts large up to 10 mm long, often ciliate. Pedicels 

apparently without a joint, c. 5 mm long, often reflexed in fruit, 

several at a node. Perianth whitish, tepals 68 mm long, with 5 

veins; stamens as long as the tepals; anthers c. 2mm long, shorter 

than the filiform filaments. Capsule shallowly trigonous in cross 

section, c. 5 mm long and 4 mm wide, smooth. Seeds saucershaped, 

2 mm in diameter. 

The species is rare in Ethiopia, so far only found in 

the Gambella area (Illubabor floristic region) and in 

the Tekezze Valley (Gonder floristic region). It grows 

in clumps in ± bare patches in grassland and woodland 

between 550 and 1000 m. It is widespread in the savanna 

region of Tropical Africa, west to Burkina Faso and south 

Fig. 72. Chlorophytum gepåhilum, from Tekeze, Gonder floristic region.


Chlorophytum 

longifolium 

Description 


distribution 

to Malawi and Zambia. The flowering period is from 

August to October. A closely related widespread species 

described from the Sudan, C. pusillum Baker, might 

also occur in Ethiopia. This species has spongy roots, 

shorter pedicels and tepals with 5 veins. More studies are 

necessary. 

2. Chlorophytum longifolium Schweinf. ex Baker 

The species epithet ‘longifolium’ refers to the long leaves 

of this species, and with leaves up to 50 cm, they are 

certainly above the average in the genus. The description 

was based on plants from Tigray (Beless) collected by 

QuartinDillon. The species is easily distinguished 

among the Ethiopian Chlorophytum species, by its 

spicate, pubescent/papillate inflorescence and bellshaped 

flowers. It is related to C. silva ti cum, in Ethiopia 

only known from Sidamo floristic region, but the latter 

is smaller, only 10–15 cm high, glabrous and has only 

one flower per node in the inflorescence, C. longifolium 

is taller than 50 cm, with papillate inflorescence and 2–5 

flowers per node. The two species were earlier referred 

to a separate genus Dasystachys, characterized by bellshaped 

flowers. 

Plants 50–105 cm high. Rhizome thick, horizontal, moniliform, up 

to 10 cm long; roots spongy, often swollen towards the tips. Leaves 

rosulate, linear, to narrow lanceolate, often canaliculate, 20–50 × 

1–2.2 cm, with undulate ciliate margins. Peduncle terete, glabrous 

below, densely papillate above, with up to 15 cm leaves all along 

its length. Inflorescence simple, spicate or with 1–3 basal branches, 

flowers congested. Pedicels from 1 to 5 at each node, ca. 5 mm long 

in fruit, articulated at the apex. Perianth white, united at the base, 

bellshaped, tepals 3veined, scabrid at the tips, densely glandular 

papillate on the inside especially above the ovary. Stamens exserted; 

filaments fusiform, longer than the anthers; style declinate, as long 

as the stamens. Capsule oblong, deeply threelobed, up to 10 mm 

long, smooth. Seeds discshaped, c. 4 mm across. 

The species is rare in Ethiopia, only found in woodland 

between 1400 and 2000 m in the Tigray and Gonder 

floristic regions in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. Outside 

Ethiopia, however, it is widespread in Tanzania, Zambia, 

Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia. It has only been 

collected in the fruit stage in Ethiopia (August), indicating 

a flowering period May to July.

Chlorophytum 

silvaticum 

Description 


distribution 

3. Chlorophytum silvaticum Dammer 


The species epithet refers to silva = forest (forest might 

also mean woodland, the species is not a typical forest 

species). It was described by the German botanist 

Dammer, based on material collected in Tanzania. It 

shares flower and fruit characters with C. longifolium, and 

was also earlier referred to a separate genus, Dasystachys 

(see above). 

Plants 10–25 cm high. Rhizome short; roots spongy, occasionally 

reduced to sessile or subsessile tubers. Leaves rosulate, linear to 

narrow lanceolate, often canaliculate, with undulate ciliate margins, 

5–15 × 0.5–1 cm. Peduncle without leaves, up to 10 cm long, 

glabrous below, to slightly pubescent above. Inflorescence dense, 

spicate, 2–5 cm long. Floral bracts up to 5 mm, ciliate. Pedicels 

articulated at the apex, short 1–3 mm long, solitary at the nodes. 

Perianth white, united at the base, bellshaped, tepals 1veined, 

scabrid at the tips, densely glandular papillate on the inside especially 

above the ovary. Stamens exserted; filaments fusiform, longer than 

the anthers; style straight, as long as the stamens. Capsule oblong, 

deeply threelobed, 2–4 mm long, 3–6 mm wide. Seeds discshaped, 

ca. 2–3 mm across. 

The species grows in degraded Acacia-Commiphora 

woodland or in remnants of Juniperus forests on red 

sandy soil between 850 and 1900 m. In Ethiopia it is so 

far only recorded in the Sidamo floristic region, but is 

Fig. 73. Chlorophytum silvaticum, from near Yabello, Sidamo floristic region.


Chlorophytum ducisaprutii 

Figur 74. 

Chlorophytum 

ducis-aprutii, 

in cultivation , 

original material 

obtained from 


region. 

otherwise widespread in eastern tropical Africa south to 

Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Flowering time in Ethiopia 

is April to May. 

4. Chlorophytum ducis-aprutii Chio venda 

The species epithet refers to the Italian Duce Aprut, 

whom Chiovenda wanted to honour, when describing the 

species in 1929, based on material from the Bale floristic 

region. It is distinguished from all other Ethiopian 

Chlorophytum species by its size, 60–200 cm high. It has 

leaves all along the peduncle (like C. nubicum, which 

unlike C. ducis-aprutii produces the flowers before the 

leaves, and C. longifolium, which differs by its spicate, 

papillate inflorescence and bell-shaped flowers). It has

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

nubicum 

Description 


large flowers, 2.5–3.5 cm in diameter, compared to most 

other Chlorophytum species. 

Very robust plants 60–200 cm tall, from a thick moniliform rhizome, 

roots spongy without tubers. Leaves several, basal, distichous (might 

appear more rosulate in older stages), linear to narrow lanceolate 

45–105 × 1.5–3 cm, acute, sheathing below, margin often shortly 

ciliate, with a more or less distinct midrib. Peduncle glabrous, up 

to 1 m long and with a diameter of about 1 cm at the base, with 

clasping leaves 4–15 cm long. Inflorescence a simple or branched 

raceme, glabrous; flowers 1–4 at each node; pedicels 4–9 mm long, 

glabrous, articulated near or below the middle, green below and 

whitish above the articulation. Tepals spreading, subequal, 3veined, 

white with greenish stripe on the outside, the inner ones 12–17 × 

4–6 mm, the outer slightly narrower. Filaments fusiform, glabrous, 

8–10 mm long; anthers 5–8 mm, slightly curved apically at anthesis. 

Style declinate, exserted. Capsule deeply 3lobed, smooth, 9–14 × 

7–9 mm, with the perianth persistent at the base. Seeds thin, flat, 

black, ca. 2.5–4 mm across. 

The species is found in grassy slopes, thicket or evergreen 

forest, sometimes in ravines or near ditches, on more or 

less loamy, dark brown to reddish soils, between 1200 

and 3000 m. This prominent and showy species is nearendemic 

in Ethi opia, occurring in the Bale and Harerge 

floristic regions. It is otherwise found in Eritrea. There is 

a slight intraspecific variation: The populations in Eritrea 

lack the ciliate leaves characterizing the more sou thern 

popu la tions. Subspecific recognition might be justi fied. 

The main flowering period is September to November. 

5. Chlorophytum nubicum (Baker) Kativu 

The species epithet refers to Nubia, which is the region 

along the Nile in northern Sudan and southern Egypt. 

In ancient times it was an independent kingdom. It was 

described by Baker in 1878 in the genus Anthericum, 

based on material collected in the Sudan. Kativu (1993) 

transferred it to the genus Chlorophytum, due to the 

traits of the complex inflorescence nodes. The species 

is unique within the flora area by producing flowers and 

fruits before the leaves develop. 

Plants, loosely tufted, 10–40 cm high. Rhizome thick, monoliform, 

often carrying fibrous remains of old leaf bases. Roots spongy and 

thick. Leaves in a rosette, glabrous, up to 25 × 0.5 cm; margin 

minutely papillate to ciliate. Peduncle with small bractlike leaves 

along its entire length. Inflorescence unbranched. Pedicels, up to



distribution 

Chlorophytum 

somaliense 

10 mm long, articulate below the middle, 2–4 together at the lower 

nodes. Perianth starshaped, white with dull pinkish stripes on the 

outside; tepals 7–15 mm long, 3 (–5) veined; both filaments and 

anthers 4–5 mm long. Capsule shallowly transversely ridged, 

rounded triangular in cross section. Seeds irregularly folded, c 2 

mm in diameter. 

Growing in lava grassland or burnt areas in dry 

woodland, from 550 to 2300 m. The species is rare 

and found within the Illubabr and Sidamo floristic 

regions, otherwise widespread in tropical Africa west 

to Guinea and south to Mozambique and Zambia. 

6. Chlorophytum somaliense Baker 

The species epithet is selfevident, the species was 

described on material collected in Somalia, by the 

German collector Hilde brandt. It was described by Baker 

in 1893. This name was not in use for about 100 years 

until Nordal and Thulin revised the genus on the Horn 

of Africa in 1993. Before then it was known by the name 

C. tenui florum Baker. It is easily distingui shed from 

Fig. 75. Chlorophytum somaliense, from Sidamo floristic region.

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

bifolium 

Description 


other Chlorophytum species in Ethiopia by its very thick 

tuberous roots and its delicate, irregular flowers. 

Plants 30–70 cm high. Rhizome short, moniliform; roots thick and 

spongy throughout, or narrow near the base enlarging into long, 

conspicuous tubers. Leaves rosulate, erect or sometimes falcate with 

clasping bases, glabrous, often bluish to greyish green, narrowly 

lanceolate to linear, 20–40 × 0.5–3 cm, margin undulate. Peduncle, 

erect, leafless, 15–40 cm. Inflorescence a simple, glabrous raceme 

with one flower at each node, supported by short floral bracts. 

Pedicels c. 10 mm at anthesis, elongating with age, articulated in 

upper half. Flowers conspicuous, zygomorphic; tepals, white with 

pale green mid rib, 15–17 mm long, narrow, 3veined, constricted 

and thus forming an urceolate structure around the ovary, outer parts 

reflexed at anthesis. Stamens exserted; filaments declinate up to 15 

mm, anthers 2–3 mm long. Style declinate, exserted. Capsule with 

remnants of the perianth at the base, triquetrous, variable in size, but 

often large, 10–15 mm long and most often distinctly longer than 

wide. Seeds several, discshaped, 3–5 mm across. 

The species is found in more or less degraded Acacia- 

Combretum-Commiphora woodland to bushland, also on 

treeless grassland, on black cotton soil or red late ritic soils, 

but also in sand, limestone or gypseous rocks between 

800 and 1650 m. It occurs in the Shewa, Gamo Gofa, 

Sida mo, Bale and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia, 

and is further widespread in Somalia and Kenya. The 

irregular (zygomorphic) flower morphology differs from 

most other Chlorophytum species and might indicate a 

different pollination syndrome. More observations are 

nee ded. The main flowering period is from March to 

June, flowers are also seen in October in the Gamo-Gofa 


7. Chlorophytum bifolium Dammer 

The species epithet ‘bifolium’ means with two leaves, 

and as with ‘tetraphyllum’, this character does not always 

hold. European botanists, like Dammer in 1905, described 

species on material from Southern Ethiopia, without 

overall knowledge of the variation in the nature. In fact, 

this species car ries 2–5 basal leaves. The characteristic 

features of this species is the pubescent inflorescence and 

the one-flowered nodes. 

Small plants up to 15 cm high, from a very short rhizome; 

roots reduced to a fascicle of elongated tubers, 1.5–2 cm long.



distribution 

Chlorophytum 

pterocarpum 

Description 


distribution 

Leaves 2–5, rosulate, lanceolate 8–14 × ca. 1.5 cm, acute, with 

hyaline margin. Peduncle slender, scabrid, leafless, 5–7 cm long. 

Inflorescence a simple raceme; rachis ± puberulous; bracts, narrow, 

membranaceous, up to 3 mm long. Flowers inconspicuous, one at 

each node (rarely 2 at the lower node); pedicels suberect, 3 mm long 

at anthesis, glabrous, articulated near to slightly above the middle. 

Tepals semipatent, whitish, 6 mm long, 3veined. Stamens shorter 

than the perianth. Capsule trigonous, indistinctly transversely 

ridged, 6–9 × 9–12 mm, emarginate, with withered remnants of the 

perianth at the base. Seeds flat to slightly folded, 2 mm across. 

The species is probably growing in shallow, poorly 

drained soils (whitish silt) on limestone. This information 

is from Somalia, there is no data on the ecology of the 

species in Ethiopia, where it is only known from the type 

locality ‘between Marta and Djaro’, supposedly in the 

Bale floristic region. It is also found in Somalia and NE 

Kenya. Main flowering time supposedly from April to 

May. 

8. Chlorophytum pterocarpum Nordal & Thulin 

The species epithet ‘pterocarpum’ refers to the fruits 

which has three winglike compartments (pteros = wing 

in Greek). It is a small, inconspicuous species, described 

by Nordal and Thulin, as late as in 1993, based on material 

collected from Sof Omar in the Bale floristic region. It is 

distinct within the genus by its fruit shape. 

Small plants up to 10 cm high, from a very short rhizome; roots 

swollen, narrow in the proximal part, then expanding to a tuberlike 

structure 1.5–2.5 × 0.5 cm. Leaves 2–5, rosulate, lanceolate, 

5–7 × c. 1.5 cm, often prostrate, with a finely undulate-crispate 

hyaline margin. Peduncle slender, glabrous, leafless, 3–5 cm 

long. Inflorescence a simple raceme, rachis glabrous; flowers, 

inconspicuous, 1 at each node; pedicels stiffly patent, 5–12 mm 

long at anthesis, articulated near the apex, c. 1 mm below the 

flower. Tepals semi patent, subequal, oblong, whitish, 6–8 mm 

long, 3-veined. Capsule deeply 3-lobed, with three flat winglike 

compartments, slightly transversely ridged, 6–9 × 9–12 mm, 

emarginate, with whi thered remnants of the perianth at the base. 

Seeds thin, flat, black, c. 34 mm across. 

This small and inconspicuous plant is known from 

Acacia-Commiphora woodland/bushland on limestone 

between 1400 and 1500 m. It is a narrow endemic in the 

Bale floristic region. It has been collected in fruit in April 

and in October.

Chlorophytum 

inconspicuum 

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

tuberosum 

Description 


9. Chlorophytum inconspicuum (Baker) Nordal 

The species epithet refers to the inconspicuous habit of 

this small plant. It was described by Baker, who referred 

it to An thericum in 1877 based on material from Somalia, 

later transferred to the genus Chlorophytum by Nordal in 

1993. This species is recognised by its filiform leaves, 

its reduced peduncle, its prostrate inflorescence, and the 

relatively large capsules in comparison to the small plant 

size. 

Slender herb from a short rhizome, roots, thin in the proximal parts, 

swelling to an elongated tubers distally. Leaves filiform or narrowly 

linear, 10–25 × 0.1–0.3 cm, glabrous except for the sometimes 

scabrid margins; basal sheaths whitish to purplish. Peduncle 

reduced so that the lower flowers/fruits are found within the leaf 

rosette. Inflorescence a very lax, simple raceme 2–15 cm long, 

prostrate. Flowers 1–2 per node; pedicels 2–5 mm long, articulated 

near or below the middle, glabrous ± recurved. Tepals white, with an 

outside greenish stripe, 3–5 mm long, 3veined. Capsule triquetrous, 

8–10 × 5–6 mm when ripe, with withered perianth at the base. Seeds 

deeply folded, c. 2 mm across. 

The species is found in woodland or degraded bushland, 

on shallow soils overlying volcanic rocks or limestone, 

between 750 and 1800 m, recorded from the Shewa, 

Si damo, and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia and 

also in Eri trea. It is otherwise found in Somalia, Ye men, 

Oman and North Kenya. The main flowering period is 

from May to July. 

10. Chlorophytum tuberosum (Roxb.) Baker 

The species epithet refers to the roots that form large 

tubers. The species was descri bed as an Anthericum by 

Roxburgh in 1800 based on material from India, and 

transferred to Chlorophytum by Baker in 1876. It is one 

of the species with high potential as an ornamental plant 

in the genus, due to the characteristic large, pure white 

flowers about 3 cm in diameter, larger than in any other 

Chlorophytum species. 

Plants 20–40 cm high. Rhizome short irregular; roots swollen 

with robust distal tubers up to 7 × 1 cm. Leaves rosulate, glabrous, 

lanceolate, 10–40 × 1–3 cm. Peduncle, stout, 10–20 cm long, leafless, 

glabrous, terete. Inflorescence unbranched, racemose, up to 15 

cm long. Pedicels, 1–3 at each node, up to 10 mm long, articulated


Fig. 76. Chlorophytum tuberosum, from near Moyale, Sidamo floristic region. 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

zavattarii 

near the middle. Flowers large and showy, sweet scented, shallowly 

bowl shaped, tepals 20 × 6–9 mm, the only species in the genus with 

more than 9veined tepals. Capsule triquetrous, c. 15 × 8–12 mm, 

slightly emarginate. Seeds irregularly folded, ca. 2mm across. 

The species grows in woodland or shrub land, often in 

degraded Combretum-Termi nalia vegetation on heavy 

black soils or more sandy soils, often in seasonally flooded 

areas and flood plains, between 550 and 1600 m. It 

is widespread in Ethiopia, found in in Tigray, Gonder, 

Gojam, Welo, Shewa, Illu babor, Kefa, GamoGofa, and 

Sidamo floristic regions. It occurs in Eritrea and is further 

distributed in a wide belt from Nigeria east to Somalia 

and India and south to northern Tanzania. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to August. 

11. Chlorophytum zavattarii (Cufo don tis) Nordal 

The species epithet honours the collector who first 

found this plant, the Italian Za vat tari, who collected it 

in Sidamo. Ba sed on this collection Cufodontis described 

the species as Anthericum in 1939, but it was later 

transferred to Chloro phy tum by Nordal in 1993. It is 

easily recognised by its extremely branched inflorescence

Fig. 77. 

Chlorophytum 

zavattarii, from 

Sof Omar, Bale 


Description 


distribution 

and its long, stiff, patent pedicels. 


Plants 30–60 cm. Rhizome short; roots swollen and thick throughout 

their length. Leaves rosu late, broadly lanceolate, more or less 

rounded apex, 10–20 × 2.5–5 cm, often with a hyaline margin. 

Peduncle 10–25 cm, leafless, but sometimes with one sterile bract 

below the inflorescence. Inflorescence a much branched panicle. 

Pedicels stiffly patent to semipatent, 1–3 at each node, up to 25 mm 

long, articulated near the apex. Tepals patent, 5–6 mm, white with 

greenish dorsal stripe, 3veined. Fruits not seen. 

The species grows in open woodland or bushland 

dominated by Acacia-Commi phora and/or Combretum 

woodland, often in degraded and grazed areas, on red 

soils or on rocky limestone, between 1400 and 1700 m, 

occurring in the Sidamo and Bale floristic regions. It 

also occurs in Somalia and Nor thern Kenya. The main 

flowering period is two-peaked, May and October to 

November. Fruiting specimens need to be collec ted, as 

we have no information on the fruits and the seeds of 

this species.


Chlorophytum 

humifusum 

Description 


distribution 

Fig. 78. 

Chlorophytum 

humifusum, 

cultivated plant 

originally from 

near Negelle, 


region. 

12. Chlorophytum humifusum Cufo dontis 

The species epithet ‘humifusum’ means ‘spreading on the 

ground’ (cfr. hu mus = organic mould), and refers to the 

prostrate inflorescences which characterize this species. 

It was described by Cufodontis in 1939, based on plants 

he had collected in the Sidamo floristic region. Among 

the Chloro phytum species with prostrate inflorescences, 

it can be recognised by the distichous leaf arrangement, 

i.e. the leaves are organised in two ranks. 

Small plants, rarely more than 12 cm, from a moniliform rhizome; 

roots wiry, shortly branched, bearing small tubers (up to 1 × 0.5 cm) 

mainly on the lateral root branches. Leaves more or less distichous, 

glabrous, narrowly lanceolate, petiolate, up to 12 × 1 cm, peduncle 

only up to 1 cm long. Inflorescence, up to 15 cm long, lying flat on 

ground, simple or with one basal branch, lax, elongated internodes, 

rachis scabrid; floral bracts up to 4 mm, sometimes ciliate. Flowers 

1 (–2) at each node. Pedicels 6–8 mm at anthesis, elongating slightly 

in fruit, articulation in lower half. Perianth open, white, tepals 5–7 

mm long, 3veined. Capsule c. 4 × 4 mm, seeds not known. 

The species grows in shallow stony soils in Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland or woodland between 1000 

and 1300 m, in the Sidamo and Bale floristic regions. 

Otherwise it is only known from adjacent parts of Kenya.

Chlorophytum 

herrmanni 

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

gallabatense 

Description 


The main flowering period is from May to June, but 

flowers have also been collected in November. 

13. Chlorophytum herrmanni Nordal & Sebsebe 

The species epithet honours Christof Herr mann, who 

has recently collected several interesting plants in the 

western parts of the Wellega floristic region, and was 

described by Nordal & Sebsebe (2005). The species 

was accordingly not in cluded in the Flora of Ethiopia 

and Eritrea. It belongs among the species with prostrate 

inflorescence, but differs from the others by its very 

branched inflorescence and pubescent leaf undersides. 

Short horizontal rhizomes with fleshy roots. Leaves rosulate, 

petiolate, lanceolate, up to 20 × 3.5 cm; acute with hyaline, crisply 

undulate margin, ciliate on margin and the veines on the abaxial 

part of the leaf. Peduncle 2–2.5 cm long prostrate, with short hairs. 

Inflorescence conspicuously branched, 4–12 cm long, also flat on 

the ground. Bracts large and leaflike, up to 15 × 5 mm, ciliate on 

margin and veins. Flowers 2–4 at each node. Pedicels not curved, 

5–6 mm at anthesis, articulated in lower half. Flowers white with 

brownish tips, tepals 5–6 × 2 mm long with 3–5 veins. Stamens 

shorter than the tepals, filaments 3–4 mm, anthers 2 mm. Styles 

straight, ca. 5 mm. Fruits and seeds not known. 

The plants grow on open rocky outcrops in the bamboo 

forest, at 1590 m. It is so far only known from the Assosa 

area in the Wel lega floristic region, and is accordingly a 

narrow en demic in Ethiopia. The main flowering period 

is in June. 

14. Chlorophytum gallabatense Schweinf. ex 

Baker 

The species epithet refers to the Gallabat area between 

Ethiopia and the Sudan, where it was collected by 

Schweinfurth and later published by Baker in 1876. It 

is recognised by its very undulate leaves, its branched 

inflorescence and small greenish to yellowish flowers. 

Plants 15–60 (–75) cm high. Rhizome horizontal, short, moniliform. 

Roots fairly narrow, shortly branched, bearing tubers (2–3 × 1.5 

cm) mainly on the lateral branches. Leaves rosulate, (3–) 5–8 to 

a stem, glabrous, lanceolate, broadest at the middle, narrowed and


Fig. 79. 

Chlorophytum 

gallabatense, 

from near 




distribution 

Chlorophytum 

micranthum 

clasping below, occasionally petiolate, 10–75 × 2–4 cm, the margins 

glabrous or minutely scabrid, undulate; peduncle glabrous, leafless, 

occasionally with a single sterile bract below the inflorescence, up 

to 20 cm long. Inflorescence pani culate; branches most often with 

short internodes, more elongated in shadowforms, rachis glabrous 

to scabrid. Pedicels scabrid, 2–4 at a node, articulated near or 

above the middle, 3–10 mm long. Perianth with reflexed tepals, 

yellowish to greenish, 5–7 mm long, 3veined. Capsule emarginate, 

triquetrous, 3–5 × 5–7 mm, smooth. Seeds disc to saucershaped, 

2.5 mm in diameter. 

The species is commonly found in more or less degraded 

and heavily grazed woodland dominated by Acacia, 

Combretum, Commiphora and/or Terminalia, between 

700 and 2100 m. It is found in the Tigray, Shewa, Wellega, 

Gamo Gofa, Sidamo, Bale and Harerge floristic regions 

in Ethiopia and also in Eritrea. It is otherwise widespread 

in Africa west to Senegal and south to Zimbabwe. The 

main flowering period is from April to June; in the 

southern provinces it has a second period also in October 

to November. 

15. Chlorophytum micranthum Baker 

The species epithet micranthum is of Greek origin and 

means small-flowered (anthos = flower). It was described 

by Baker in 1878, based on a Schweinfurth collection 

from the Sudan. It is closely related to Chlorophytum

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

pendulum 

Description 


distribution 


gallabatense (see above) and might only deserve 

subspecific rank. It is separated from C. galla batense by 

its leaves developing after the flowering and its somewhat 

smaller flowers. 

Plants with leaves appearing after flowering, up to about 20 cm 

high. Rhizome short, carrying fibrous remains from previous year’s 

leaves. Roots fairly narrow with tubers on lateral branches. Leaves in 

a basal rosette, glabrous, narrowly lanceolate, never collected when 

fully developed. Peduncle leafless, up to 10 cm long. Inflorescence 

simple to branched; floral bracts small. Pedicels, 2–4 at a node, up 

to 20 mm long, articulate near the middle. Tepals slightly recurved, 

pale green, 4–5 mm long, 3veined. Capsules 3lobed, c. 4 mm long. 

Seeds not known. 

The species is so far only recorded from the Illuba bor 

floristic region (flowering in April), but is otherwise found 

in the Sudan and in Kenya. The relation to Chlorophytum 

gallabatense needs to be further studies. 

16. Chlorophytum pendulum Nordal & Thulin 

The species epithet refers to the pendant fruits. It was 

described in 1993 by Nordal & Thulin based on material 

collected in the Bale floristic region. It has small 

inconspicuous flowers, and is most easily recognised by 

its hanging, pyramideshaped fruits. The distincly ciliate 

leaves may provide an additional clue to its identity. 

Slender, tufted plants 15–40 cm tall, from a short, sometimes 

moniliform rhizome; roots thin and wiry with tubers, 1–2 × 0.5–1 cm. 

Leaves several, rosulate, green to olive green, linear 20–45 × 0.4– 

0.9 cm, erect but drooping in upper parts, margin distinctly ciliate, 

with a distinct midrib; cataphylls more or less membranaceous, 

sometimes with a characteristic white/green striping. Peduncle 

slender, lax, glabrous, leafless, 5–30 cm long. Inflorescence a simple 

raceme, rachis glabrous to slightly papillose, often drooping margin; 

flowers 1–4 at each node; pedicels, very thin, glabrous, 5–12 mm 

long at anthesis, articulated near the base. Tepals patent, white, with 

greenish to brownish stripes on the outside, 5–9 mm long, 3veined. 

Capsule pendent, deeply 3lobed, slightly transversely ridged, 10– 

15 × 6–10 mm, triangular in longitudinal section, broadest in the 

distal end, emarginate, with remnants of the perianth at the base. 

Seeds thin, flat, black, 3–4 mm across. 

The species is found in woodland dominated by Acacia, 

Combretum, and Com mi phora, in more or less shade, on 

dark or red stony soils, sometimes on limestone, between


Chlorophytum 

subpetiolatum 

Description 

Fig. 80. 

Chlorophytum 

subpetiolatum, 

from near 

Assosa, Wellega 


1000 and 1650 m. It is known from the Bale and Sidamo 

floristic regions in Ethiopia, and it is otherwise only 

known from adjacent areas in Kenya. The main flowering 

period is April, but it probably has a second period also 

in October. 

17. Chlorophytum subpetiolatum (Ba ker) Kativu 

The species epithet refers to the leaves that are slightly 

petiolate, a trait that is not very common in the genus. It 

was descri bed in the genus Anthericum by Baker in 1876, 

based on plants from Mozambique, and transferred to 

Chlorophytum by Ka tivu in 1993. The species is among 

the few that have potential as an ornamental in the genus, 

due to its relatively large (about 2.5 cm in diameter) 

pure white star-like flowers in dense inflorescences. It is 

further re cognised by having distichous leaves (more or 

less in two ranks) and by the roots that are fusiform, i.e. 

swollen at the middle, and tapering to each end like a 

spindle, lacking tubers otherwise common in the genus. 

Plants 10–30 cm. Rhizome moniliform; roots spongy, fusiform, 

swollen at the base, tapering towards the tips. Leaves subdistichous


distribution 

Chlorophytum affine 

Description 


to distichous, 1–7 to a stem, more or less firm, sometimes distinctly 

ribbed, petiolate, linearlanceolate to lanceolate, glabrous, 5–30 × 

0.5–2 cm, outer ones wider, curved and cataphylllike. Peduncles 

often glabrous below and pubescent in the upper half, 5–25 cm 

long. Pedicels 1–2 at each node, articulated below the middle, up 

to 6 mm long in fruit. Flowers white, starlike, tepals 7–15 mm long, 

3–5veined, sometimes streaked brown or green on the outside. 

Anthers longer than the filaments, often curled on drying. Style 

slightly declinate, exserted. Capsule shallowly threelobed, smooth, 

5–7 mm long, slightly emar ginate. Seeds irregularly folded, c. 1.5 

mm across. 

The species is found in overgrazed grassland and 

degraded woodland, on blackish, brownish to reddish 

more or less barren soils, between 1200 and 2000 m. It 

has been recorded from Shewa, Sidamo, and Harerge 

regions, and is otherwise widely distributed in tropical 

Africa west to Nigeria and south to Angola, Zimbabwe 

and Mozambique. It is a variable species constituting a 

polyploid complex. The main flowering period is in April 

to May. 

18. Chlorophytum affine Baker 

The species epithet ‘affine’ means neighbouring or 

related to, and might refer to the fact that the plants often 

grows in clumps due to efficient vegetative reproduction 

by its branched underground rhizome. It was described 

by Baker in 1875 based on plants from Tanzania. This 

species was referred to as Chlorophytum tor dense Chiov. 

in the Flora of Ethiopia and Eri trea (1997). When the 

genus was revised for the Flora of Tropical East Africa, 

it was found that the two taxa were conspecific, and as 

C. affine is the oldest name, it has priority. The species 

is characterised by its leaves that have a particular crossban 

ded, pattern of white and green, not seen in other 

species. The species is often divided in two varieties, the 

Ethiopian material belongs to var. curviscapum (Poelln.) 

Hanid, the epithet referring to the peduncle, which is 

curved near the base. 

Slender, tufted plants about 25 cm tall, from a distinctly moniliform 

rhizome; roots thin and wiry with tubers, 1 × 0.5 cm. Leaves grasslike, 

distichous, erect or falcate, linear, canaliculate, 15–20 × 0.4– 

0.8 cm, sheathing below, margin and midrib distinctly ciliate. short 

cataphylls, ciliate at margin and veins, with a characteristic crossbanded 

pattern of white and green. Peduncle slender, arcuate below,



distribution 

Chlorophytum 

cameronii 

Description 


distribution 

stiffly erect above the arcuation, scabrid to pubescent, leafless, 

10–15 cm long. Inflorescence a simple raceme, rachis scabrid, often 

sinuate (‘zig zag’). Flowers single at each node; pedicels stiffly erect, 

up to 7 mm long, articulated near the base. Tepals patent, white 

with greenish brown stripe on the outside, 8–9 mm long, 3veined. 

Capsule erect, triquetrous, slightly transversely ridged, c. 5 × 7 mm, 

emar ginate, with remnants of the perianth at the base. Seeds thin, 

folded, ca. 3 mm across. 

It grows in Acacia-Commiphora bushland or wooded 

grassland, on shallow soils often overlying limestone 

between 950 and 1450 m. It is recorded from the Sidamo 

and Bale floristic regions in Ethiopia, but is otherwise 

widespread in tro pical Africa from Senegal in west to 

Zambia in south. The main flowering period is from 

October to November. 

19. Chlorophytum cameronii (Baker) Kativu 

The species epithet honours the collector of the type 

material, Cameron, who was the first to collect the 

plant, in Tanzania. It was described by Baker in the 

genus Anthericum in 1876, and later transferred to 

Chlorophytum by Kativu in 1993. This is an elegant 

lily with large showy flowers, up to 3 cm in diameter, 

which are white inside and pinkish outside. It is further 

characterized by the ‘zigzag’ inflorescence and winged 

peduncle. 

Plants tufted, 40–70 cm high. Rhizome short, knobby, horizontal, 

moniliform; roots thin, wiry, bearing distinct distant tubers. Leaves 

subdistichous to distichous, linear to linear lanceolate, sheathing 

below, glabrous, 30–70 × 0.6–0.9 cm; midribs prominent. Cataphylls 

and outer leaf bases with reddish brown spots or stripes. Peduncle 

flat, narrowly winged, glabrous, up to 40 cm long. Inflorescence 

unbranched, up to 16 cm long; rachis sinuate (‘zigzag’), winged 

below, terete above, glabrous. Pedicels 1–4 at each node, articulated 

be low the middle, up to 8 mm long in fruit. Tepals 10–15 mm long, 

(3–)5–7 veined, whitish, outer ones pinkish on the outside. Stamens 

slightly shorter than the perianth, arranged in two groups, 4 in the 

upper and 2 in the lower; filaments glabrous, as long as the anthers. 

Style declinate, slightly exserted. Capsule obovoid, trigonous, 

transversely ridged, up to 7 mm long. Seeds irregularly folded, ca. 

1 mm in diameter. 

This species grows in Combretum-Termi nalia woodland 

with tall grasses on sandy soils, between 500 and 600 m. 

It is rather rare in Ethiopia, only found a few places in the

Chlorophytum 

pseudocaule 

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

comosum 


Wellega and Illubabor floristic regions in Ethiopia, but 

is otherwise widespread through eastern Africa south to 

Zambia and Malawi. The main flowering period is May 

to June. 

20. Chlorophytum pseudocaule Tesfaye & 

Nordal 

The species belong in a group (of which the widespread 

C. andongense and C. viridescens also occur in East 

Africa) characterized by fleshy roots, peduncles with ± 

bractlike leaves (“bracteate peduncles”) and a branched 

inflorescence. Within this group it is only one species 

where the leaf bases enclose each other to make a 

socalled false stem (=pseudocaulis), the justification for 

the species epithet. It was recently collected by Tesfaye 

Awas in the Welega floristic regions and described by 

Tesfaye & Nordal (2007). 

Herbs up to 105 cm. Rhizome short with thick spongy roots without 

tubers. Pseudostem, created by folded leaf bases up to 40 cm, 

surrounded by short cataphylls. Leaves, inner up to 40 × 56.5 cm, 

with spaced veins and a distinct midrib. Peduncle with 1–2 bractlike 

leaves 10–13 × 1–1.5 cm below the inflorescence. Inflorescence, 

a branched panicle with 2–3 flowers per node. Pedicels up to 10 

mm with joint below the middle, pale brown above the articulation, 

green below. Flowers urceolate, pale brown, tepals 6 × 1–1.5 mm, 

reflexed, 3-veined; filaments filiformous, scabrid, 3–5 mm long; 

anthers 0,7 mm curved; style excerted slightly bent. Capsules 5 × 

5 mm, trigonous in cross section. Seeds slightly saucer shaped, 2 

mm in diameter. 

The species is only known from wetland, open bushy 

meadows dominated by Kotchya, Cyperus, Cymbopogon, 

Hyparrhenia, within bamboo tickets (Oxytenanthera 

abyssinica) on grey clay, otherwise dominated by other 

geophytes, in the Welega floristic region in Ethiopia from 

1430 to 1560 m. It is thus a narrow endemic, flowering 

in April to May. 

21. Chlorophytum comosum (Thunberg) Jacques 

The species epithet ‘comosum’ means ‘bea ring a tuft of 

leaves’ and refers to the trait that small plantlets often 

develop in the nodes of the inflorescence. It was described


Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

serpens 

by Thunberg in 1794 in the genus Anthericum, based on 

South African material, and transferred to Chlorophytum 

by Jacquin in 1862. 

Rhizome vertical, short. Roots spongy, long, often with spindleshaped 

tubers. Leaves lax, rosulate, petiolate, lanceolate, most 

often glabrous, sometimes with scabrid margin, 15–60 × 1–5 

cm. Peduncles 1–4 to a plant, lax, more or less arcuate, glabrous. 

Inflorescence elongated to 75 cm, lax, open, paniculate or simple; 

rachis sometimes scabrid; bracts 5–20 mm, acute to acuminate. 

Pedicels articulated near or above the middle, (1–) 2–4 at each 

node, 4–10 mm long. Perianth, whitish to greenish, tepals patent 

to slightly reflexed at anthesis, 4–7 mm long, 3-veined. Stamens 

exserted; filaments scabrid, dilated above the middle, longer than 

the anthers. Capsule triquetrous, emarginate, often broader than 

long, 3–6 mm. long, 4–8 mm wide. Seeds saucershaped, slightly 

folded, c. 2–3 mm across. Often producing small plantlets from the 

bracts of the inflorescence, pseudovivipary. 

The species occurs as undergrowth in rain forest and 

riverine forest on brown to black loamy clay, also on 

crevices in rocks along streams, sometimes epiphytic, 

between 1050 and 1900 m from the Illu babor and 

Kefa floristic regions in Ethiopia. It is otherwise found 

throughout Tropical Africa south to the Cape. It is a 

variable species which sometimes has forms with more 

dense and erect inflorescence, thus resembling C. macrophyllum. 

The taxonomy of these intermediate forms 

should be further investigated. The nonviviparous form 

has usually been called C. sparsiflorum. The Ethiopian 

po pu lations seem to mix viviparous and nonviviparous 

forms more or less randomly and taxonomic separation 

is not justified. Forms of C. comosum are common and 

widespread as ornamen tals, sometimes with variegated 

(yellowish/greenish striped) leaves. Recent molecular 

analyses might indicate that the Southern African plants 

(to which the name comosum is attached) do not group 

with the Ethiopian plants, in that case the latter will 

probably have to be described as a new species. More 

studies are necessary. 

22. Chlorophytum serpens Sebsebe & Nordal 

The species epithet ‘serpens’ means creeping in Latin 

(cf. snake = serpent), referring to the trailing habit of the 

inflorescence, which is rooting at the nodes. The species 

is closely related to the widespread heterogenous species

Description 


distribution 

Chlorophytum 

macrophyllum 

Description 


complex, C. comosum. It differs by having one-flowered 

nodes (vs. usually 2–4-flowered) and by its shorter and 

distinctly ciliate leaves. The ecology is also different, 

C. comosum grows in forests and riverine vegetation, 

whereas C. serpens grows in woodland, influenced by 

regular fires. It was discovered in 2001 by Sebsebe and 

collaborators, and was described by Sebsebe & Nordal 

(2005). 

Rhizome extremely short. Roots short, ending in distinct tubers. 

Leaves rosulate, petiolate, broadly lanceolate with ciliate 

margins.7–10 × 2–3 cm. Peduncles lax, arcuate, glabrous. 

Inflorescence elongate, up to 50 cm long, simple or with one branch; 

bracts 5–15 mm, acute to acuminate. Pedicels, single at the nodes, 

articulated near or below the middle, 4–8 mm long. Perianth white, 

tepals patent, 3–5 mm long, 3–veined. Stamens shorter than the 

tepals. Capsules not known. Always producing small plantlets from 

the bracts of the inflorescence, pseudovivipary. 

The species grows in Combretum-Termi nalia woodland 

around 1100 m, and is only known from one locality in 

the Gojam floristic region, about 70 km from Chagni 

towards Guba. It flowers in July. More information is 

needed. 

23. Chlorophytum macrophyllum (A. Richard) 

Ascherson 

The species epithet ‘macrophyllum’ refers to the wide 

leaves of this species. It was described by Richard as 

Anthericum in 1850, based on plants from Tigray. Ascherson 

transferred it to Chlorophytum in 1867. The species is 

among the largest and most robust Chlorophytum species, 

with a very dense inflorescence. If it had not been for the 

fact that the white flowers soon turn brownish, the plant 

might have potential as an ornamental. 

Plants, often in clumps, 30–90 cm high. Rhizome short, compact; 

roots thick, spongy with spindle shaped elongated tubers up to 6 cm 

long. Leaves rosulate, petiolate, broadly lanceolate, glabrous, with 

undulate or crisped margins, 15–90 × 3–7 cm. Peduncle leafless 

(or with a few steril bracts connected to the inflorescence), stout, 

erect, glabrous up to 50 cm long. Inflorescence up to 30 cm, dense, 

unbranched, or sometimes with 1–2 branches in lower part; rachis 

slightly scabrid; floral bracts 10–25 mm, drying off blackish. Pedicels 

fascicled, up to 9 at a node, articulated in the middle or upper half, 

8–13 mm long. Perianth white; patent, but slightly urceolate around



distribution 

Chlorophytum 

filipendulum 

Description 


distribution 

the lower part of the ovary, then patent, 3–5veined, 9–15 mm long. 

Stamens as long as the perianth; filaments fusiform, scabrid, shorter 

than the anthers; style slightly declinate. Capsule trigonous, 5–12 

mm long, most often slight ly longer than wide, blackish when 

dehiscing. Seeds saucershaped, ca. 2.5 mm in diameter. 

The species occurs in forest and along streams, also in 

woodland and open bush land, on black soils, between 

1500 and 2000 m. It occurs in the Tigray, Wellega, Illubabor, 

Kefa and Sidamo floristic regions in Ethiopia 

and in Eritrea. It is otherwise widespread in tropical 

Africa west to Sierra Leone and south to Mozambique 

and Zimbabwe. The main flowering period is from 

April to July (in southern Ethiopia also in October to 

November). 

24. Chlorophytum filipendulum Baker 

The species epithet means hanging (pendulum) by a 

thread (filum), and probably refers to the swollen parts 

of the tuberous roots connected by narrower more 

threadlike parts. It was described by Baker in 1878 based 

on material collected by Welwitsh in Angola. It is related 

to another robust species, C. macrophyllum, from which 

it differns by its petiolate leaves, its shorter pedicels and 

tepals, and that it turns blackish on drying. 

Plants up to 70 cm high, immediately becoming blackish when 

cut or when drying. Rhizome elongated with medium thick roots 

expanding distally to elongated tubers, 1–3 cm long. Leaves in a 

rosette, with petioles 10–20 cm long, lamina broadly lanceolate, 

glabrous, 12–50 × 5–10 cm, attenuate at the base. Peduncle leafless 

(or with a few sterile bracts just below the inflorescence) stout, up to 

50 cm long. Inflorescence 10–20 cm long , lax, usually unbranched, 

sometimes with 12 branches in lower part; rhachis scabrid; lower 

bracts 1.5–16 cm, ordinary flower bracts 1–2.5 cm, enveloping 

buds and pedicels. Pedicels, 3–4 at each node, articulated in upper 

third, whitish above the articulation, 6–8 mm long. Perianth whitish, 

sometimes greentipped, turning brownish immediately after 

anthesis, slightly urceolate; tepals 5–7 × 1.5–2.5 mm, 3veined. 

Stamens slightly shorter than to as long as the tepals; filaments 

3–5 mm long, fusiform, scabrid; anther 1.5–2.5 mm. Style slightly 

declinate. Capsule triquetrous in crosssection, emarginate (5–) 

7–13 mm long, distinctly longer than wide. Seeds saucershaped, 

1.5–2 mm across. 

The species belongs in the GuineoCongolean rain forests, 

and is within the flora area only found in the transitional

Chlorophytum 

blepharophyllum 

Description 


distribution 


forest areas of the Kefa floristic region. C. filipendulum 

was recorded in Ethiopia after the publication of the Flora 

of Ethiopia and Eritrea (1997). 

25. Chlorophytum blepharophyllum Schweinf. 

ex Baker 

‘Blepharo’ in Greek means eyelashes, and it refers to the 

ciliate leaves, characteristic of the species. The species 

was collected by Schweinfurth in the Sudan, and published 

by Baker in 1876. In addition to the ciliate leaves and 

prominent basal short leaves (‘cataphylls’), the species is 

charac terised by its brown tinged inconspicuous flowers, 

and that the plants dry blackish (the two latter traits 

shared with C. filipendulum). 

Plants very variable, 10–40 cm high. Rhizome small with fibrous 

remains of old leaf bases. Roots spongy, with elongate tubers near 

the tips. Leaves rosulate, olive green above, paler below, lanceolate, 

moderately firm, clasping the peduncle; lamina 10–30 × 1.5–4 

cm long, margins ciliate; cataphylls orange to purplish or with 

coloured veins, with ciliate and often crisped margins. Peduncle 

leafless, smooth, shorter than the leaves. Inflorescence most often 

unbranched, occasionally with a few short branches at the base; 

floral bracts linear to lanceolate, lower ones up to 25 mm long, 

often shortly ciliate and hairy. Pedicels articulated near or above the 

middle, up to 10 mm long in fruit, 2–4 from the same node. Perianth 

whitish tinged brown, slightly urceolate near the base, tepals 6–8 

mm long, 3–5veined, scab rid on margins and veins, patent except 

for the base. Capsule obovoid, emarginate, triquetrous, 6–10 mm 

long, most often longer than broad, with persistent perianth remnants 

at the base. Seeds discshaped, 2–3 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in open deciduous Com bretum 

woodland and in grassland margins, often on light sandy 

and stony soils between 550 and 1200 m. It is recorded 

from the western parts of Tigray, Gojam, and Illubabor 

floristic regions in Ethiopia. It is widespread in tropical 

Africa west to Senegal, through Central and East Africa, 

south to Angola, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The plants 

have only been collected in the fruting stage, from July to 

October. The plants from Illubabor floristic region seem 

to have more pendent fruits than typical for the species 

elsewhere. More material is needed to see whether this 

form deserves taxonomic recognition.

162 ALOACEAE 



Reproduction 

AMARYLLIDACEAE 

The family includes bulbous plants (rarely rhizomatous), 

with leaves in a basal rosette. The scapes are leafless, 

carrying an umbel-like inflorescence, subtended by two 

or more bracts, which are free or partly fused. The flowers 

are showy with 3+3 tepals forming a distinct tube with free 

segments. The 3+3 stamens are fixed in the opening of the 

tube. The ovary is inferior. These flower traits are shared 

with another Ethiopian family, Hypoxidaceae. However, 

the families differ in that Hypoxidaceae includes more 

or less pubescent plants, while Amaryllidaceae includes 

glabrous plants (except for occasional ciliate hairs along 

the leaf margin). Furthermore, species of Hypoxidaceae 

have a racemose rather than an umbel-like inflorescence. 

The Ethiopian representatives of Hypoxidaceae are 

always yellow-flowered, while those of indigenous 

Amaryllidaceae are red/pink, white, or a combination of 

both. 

Amaryllidaceae is mainly a tropical to subtropical family, 

including c. 65 genera. It has a notable centre of diversity 

in southern Africa, which houses 19 genera. Four genera 

are indigenous in Ethiopia and Eritrea: Scadoxus, 

Crinum, Ammocharis,and Pancratium. Another centre 

of diversity is southern America, and several of the 

ornamentals, also cultivated in Africa, are recruited from 

there, viz. Hippeastrum and Zephyranthes. Only one 

genus, Crinum, occurs naturally both in the Old and the 

New World Tropics. 

The ovaries are divided in three chambers separated 

by walls that contain nectarproducing tissue (septal 

nectaries). The nectar is excreted from small pores at the 

top of the ovary into the tubes, which are from 1 cm (as 

in Scadoxus) to 15 cm (as in Crinum) long. Pollinating 

insects with appropriate length of the probosces, 

butterflies for the shorter tubes and hawk-moths for the 

longer, may reach the nectar. When sucking the nectar, the 

insects will transfer pollen between plants. Most often the


use 


SCADOXUS 163 

anthers open before the stigma is mature (‘protandry’), 

thus avoiding selfpollination. 

The family is known for its ornamental species. In addition 

to occasional indigenous species, some introduced 

species may be found in gardens, particularly of the 

two South American genera, Hippeastrum (sometimes 

called ‘Amaryllis’, not to be confused with the real Cape 

Amaryllis) and Zephyranthes. Species of the EurAsiatic 

genus Narcissus are also sometimes cultivated in the 

cooler parts of Ethiopia and in Eritrea. The cultivated 

genera are included in the key, but not treated further in 

the text. 

Almost all representatives of the family have proved 

to be poisonous as different alkaloids frequently occur in 

all parts of the plants. This trait is connected to the life 

history strategies of plants growing in an environment 

with strong seasonality. Due to the bulbs, efficient 

storage organs for water and nutrition, the amaryllids are 

able to sprout very early in the rainy season, and they 

flower and disperse the seeds before grasses and forbs 

become dominant. Such plants are vulnerable to the 

grazing animals which for several months do not have 

enough fresh leaves to consume. Without their chemical 

protection the amaryllids might have had little chance to 

survive. 

1. Plants rhizomatous, or if bulbous with an elongated rhizomatous part under the 

bulbous part; leaves thin with petioles sheathing to form a ‘false stem’; 

involucral bracts 4 or more; fruit a berry 1. Scadoxus 

- Plants bulbous; leaves without a petiole; involucral bracts 1–2; fruit a 

loculicidal capsule (meaning that it splits between the walls that subdivide it), 

sometimes slightly fleshy with irregular opening 2 

2. Flowers red, pink or whitish tinged pink, zygomorphic or regular, 

without a cylindrical corona 3 

- Flowers white or yellow, regular, with a cylindrical corona, either formed by the 

fused filament bases or as a ring from the perianth outside the stamens 6 

3. Scape solid; perianth tube cylindrical, most often longer than the free tepals; 

seeds greenish and fleshy 4 

- Scape hollow; perianth tube funnel shaped, shorter than the free tepals; seeds 

black and flat (cultivated plants only) 5

164 AMARYLLIDACEAE 

4. Leaves in a basal rosette; flowers whitish with pink to red bands, or tinged 

pinkish, most often irregular (zygomorphic) with curved tube and free tepals 

(5 mm or broader) connivent to form a funnel or bell; more rarely with straight 

tube and radial symmetrical arrangement of the recurved segments 2. Crinum 

- Leaves arranged in two prostrate fans; flowers pinkish, regular with straight 

tube and free recurved tepals (narrower than 5 mm) 3. Ammocharis 

5. Large plants (more than 30 cm tall), with several flowers in the inflorescence, 

scales present in the throat of the perianth tube (cultivated) Hippeastrum 

- Slender plants (less than 30 cm), one-flowered, without scales in the throat of 

the perianth tube (cultivated) Zephyranthes 

6. Flowers whitish, with a distinct cylindrical perianth tube; filaments fused 

below, forming a corona, rarely reduced to short teeth 4. Pancratium 

- Flowers yellowish (at least the corona), with a short ± funnel-shaped perianth 

tube; corona forming a ring outside the stamen. (cultivated) Narcissus 

1. SCADOXUS Raf. 

This genus has been joined with the genus Haemanthus 

in earlier literature (also in horticulture). Haemanthus, as 

now understood, is a strictly South African genus with 

perennial, fleshy, distichous leaves, lacking petioles. 

At the moment, 6 species are recognised within the 

genus Sca doxus, of which three occur in Ethiopia (in 

horticulture they may still be referred to Haem anthus). 

The representatives of the genus are usually found in 

different forms of savannah woodland (as Scadoxus 

multiflorus and S. puniceus), but a few have evolved 

adaptations to rain forest conditions, which is rather rare 

among bulbous plants (e.g. the Ethiopian endemic, S. 

nutans). 

The underground organ is in principle a bulb, but the 

rhizomatous part, to which the bulb scales are attached, 

is more elongated than in ordinary bulbs. The leaves are 

annual, dying back every growing season, and they are 

distinctly petiolate, forming a false stem that is mottled 

or spotted. The blades (lamina) are thintextured with 

a distinct midrib. The several (4 or more) involucral 

bracts, free or fused, are most often membranaceous and 

drooping, but sometimes persistent and suberect. The 

flowers are distinctly pedicellate, red, in dense many-

Reproduction 

Conservation 


SCADOXUS 165 

flowered umbels, with narrow short tubes. The segments 

are spreading or more or less erect. The filaments are red, 

carrying small, yellow, dorsifixed anthers. The straight 

style ends in a minute stigma. The fruits are ovoid 

to globose, berries, brightly red to orange, with 1–3 

relatively large, pale and fleshy seeds. 

The red flower heads are conspicuous and attractive to 

butterflies with a proboscis longer than 1 cm. The red 

colour of the berries suggests bird dispersal. Exact data 

on pollination and dispersal are, however, lacking. The 

berries are probably poisonous to man, as they contain 

alkaloids. 

Of the three species, Scadoxus nutans is the only 

endemic, growing in rain forests threatened by habitat 

destruction. Habitat destruction is thus the major threat 

to the existence of this species, and protection is needed. 

The two other species, S. multiflorus and S. puniceus, 

are widespread (but local races in Ethiopia of both 

species might represent endemic genotypes, accordingly 

deserving special attention, see below). 

The species of the genus (often called ‘fireball lilies’) 

are spectacular and may be of horticultural interest. S. 

multiflorus is easily cultivated. 

1. Underground organ rhizomatous; inflorescence nodding, berries subglobose 

1. S. nutans 

- Underground organ with a distinct bulb, although the rhizomatous part might be 

elongated; inflorescence erect; berries globose 2 

2. Inflorescence a semi-globose to globose umbel; involucral bracts 

membranaceous, most often colourless and early drooping; free tepals 

spreading during anthesis 2. S. multiflorus 

- Inflorescence a conical umbel; involucral bracts herbaceous, persistent, 

suberect to erect, green, sometimes spotted or tinged purplish; free tepals 

erect to suberect during anthesis 3. S. puniceus


Scadoxus nutans 

Description 

Fig. 81. 

Scadoxus 

nutans, from 

near Bonga, Kefa 


1. Scadoxus nutans (Friis & I. Bjørnstad) Friis & 

Nordal 

The species epithet ‘nutans’ refers to the nodding flower 

heads, a trait by which this species is easily recognised. 

In spite of its showy appearance, it was not described 

until 1971 by Friis and Bjørnstad (then in the genus 

Haemanthus), based on material from the Kefa Floristic 

region. Five years later it was transferred to the genus 

Scadoxus by Friis and Nordal. 

Herb, 30–50 (–100) cm high. Leaves forming a distinct false stem, 

25–40 cm, through which the inflorescence and new shoots pierce, 

leaf blade up to 40 × 8 cm. Inflorescence bracts short and partly 

fused, supporting the dense nodding inflorescence of 20–30 flowers. 

Pedicels up to 1 cm. Tepals red to scarlet with a tube of 8 mm, 

segments ascending about 20 × 2 mm. Fruitstand ultimately erect 

with ovoid berries about 15 mm long.


distribution 

Notes 

Scadoxus multiflorus 

Description 


distribution 

SCADOXUS 167 

The species is native to moist afromontane; it is growing 

on the forest floor or on tree trunks up to 10 m above 

the ground (epiphytic), forming dense mats on trunks 

and branches. So far it is only recorded from the Kefa 

and Illubabor floristic regions, from 1000 to 2300 m. It 

is a narrow endemic, not known outside this area. The 

flowering period is from November to February. The 

species must be regarded as threatened, particularly 

since the forests in which it occurs are being heavily 

exploited. 

The nodding inflorescence indicates pollinators arriving 

from below rather than from above. This trait is shared 

with another rainforest species, S. cyrtanthiflorus (C.H. 

Wright) Friis & Nordal, from the Ru wen sori mountains 

in Uganda. Possibly, protection of flowers from heavy 

rains gives the evolutionary background for this trait. 

The phenomenon should be further studied. When the 

seeds are mature, the in fru tescence turns upwards and 

displays bright scarlet berries for animal (probably bird) 

dispersal. 

2. Scadoxus multiflorus (Martyn) Rafinesque 

The specific epithet ‘multiflorus’ means many-flowered, 

and refers to the rich-flowered heads. The species is 

recognised by its globose inflorescence with up to 

150 flowers. It was described by the son of Linnaeus 

(‘L.f.’) in 1781, but first validly published by Martyn as 

Haemanthus multiflorus in 1795. Rafinesque transferred 

it to his new genus Scadoxus in 1838. 

Herb, up to 70 cm high. Leaves, produced at the same time or after 

the flowering, form a distinct false stem, 10–40 cm, lateral to the 

scape, leaf blade up to 40 × 7 cm. Inflorescence with membranous 

bracts, sometimes partly fused, withering early, subtending the 

globose inflorescence of 10 to 150 flowers. Pedicels 1–3 cm. Tepals 

orange red to scarlet with a tube of 5–15 mm, segments spreading 

12–25 × 1–2 mm. Berries globose, 0.5–1 cm in diameter. 

The species is found in savannah woodlands and in riverine 

and montane forests. It seems to prefer some shade, and 

is growing on dark brown to blackish soils, from 1000 to 

3000 m. It is found in almost all floristic regions within 

Ethiopia and Eritrea, except in the lowlands, and is 

widespread elsewhere in Tropical Africa west to Senegal,


Fig. 82. 

Scadoxus 

multiflorus, 

from Sidamo 


Notes 

east to Arabia and south to Natal. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from January to April (in the Kefa 

floristic region flowering plants have been observed also 

in November). It is probably pollinated by butterflies and 

dispersed by birds. 

This variable and widely distributed species has been 

subdivided into 3 subspecies. All the Ethiopian and 

Eritrean material belongs to subsp. multiflorus. There 

is, however, a common form in Ethiopia, dif fering from 

forms elsewhe re, by its partly fused involucral bracts and 

its elongated, almost stolonlike, rhi zo mateous part under 

the bulb. This form has been described as S. bivalvis 

Beck, and fur ther studies should be undertaken to see 

whether this form deserves taxonomic recognition on the 

specific or sub specific level. It is possible that the two 

forms meet in Ethiopia, but since underground organs are 

rarely included in herbarium material, and the bract are 

often too withered to judge the degree of fusing. More 

field observations are needed to settle this pro blem.

Scadoxus puniceus 

Description 

Fig. 83. 

Scadoxus 

puniceus, from 


region. 

3. Scadoxus puniceus (L.) Friis & Nordal 

SCADOXUS 169 

The specific epithet ‘puniceus’ refers to the coloration 

of the bracts, so-called ‘phoe nician purple’, which is 

the common colour of the involucral bracts of the plants 

in South Africa, from where the species originally was 

described by Linnaeus (1753), then as a species in the 

genus Haemanthus. Friis and Nordal transferred it to the 

genus Scadoxus in 1976. The Ethiopian forms, however, 

often have gree nish bracts, not fitting the species’ name. S. 

puniceus differs from S. multiflorus by having persistent, 

more or less erect invo luc ral bracts, thereby forcing the 

individual flowers together into a subglobose to conical, 

rather than a globose, inflorescence. The tepals are more 

or less erect in the for mer and spreading in the latter. 

Herb up to c. 80 cm. Leaves produced at the same time or before the 

flowers, producing a false stem, 30–50 cm long. Leaves very similar 

to S. multiflorus. Scape 30–75 cm. Involucral bracts herbaceous, 

greenish or green tinged, persistent and more or less erect at anthesis, 

forming a cup-like structure. Infloresence conical, 30–100-flowered. 

Pedicels 0.5–2.5 cm long. Flowers as in S. multiflorus except that 

the segments are more or less erect at anthesis. Berries as in S. multiflorus.



distribution 

Notes 

This species is found in deciduous woodlands and 

grasslands on heavy black clay soils, often on basalt, 

between 1400 and 2600 m; recorded from Gonder, 

Shewa, Kefa, Arsi, Sidamo, and Harerge floristic regions. 

The species has a very disjunct distribution in southern 

and eastern Africa. The flowering period in Ethi opia is 

from March to June. 

Scadoxus puniceus might be difficult to distinguish from 

S. multiflorus in younger stages, when the involucral 

bracts are erect in both. There seems to be heterogeneity 

as to colour of bracts and flowers in S. pu ni ceus. The 

Ethiopian plants appear to have more greenish bracts than 

the more southern populations, and Cufodontis referred to 

them as a separate species, Haem an thus fax-imperi. It has 

been shown that the populations with strongly coloured 

involucrum tend to have more greenish single flowers, 

whereas those with more inconspicuously, i.e. greenish, 

coloured involucrum tend to have more reddish coloured 

flowers. If the Ethiopian populations turn out to be fairly 

homogeneous in these traits, taxonomic recognition at 

the sub specific level might be justified. Field notes and 

photos are encouraged. 

The compact inflorescence of Scadoxus puniceus 

appears more or less like a single composite flower. This 

entity might attract other pollinators than those of S. multi 

florus. 

2. CRINUM L. 

Species belonging to this genus are robust with large 

bulbs, enabling them to sprout with the first rains. They 

have large and showy flowers. The leaves are found 

in basal rosettes, they are strapshaped or lanceolate, 

with or without a thickened midrib. The inflorescence, 

subtended by two free involucral bracts, consists of 2 to 

40 flowers, rarely only one. The flowers are sessile or 

with pedicels up to 4 cm long; with a narrow cylindrical, 

curved or straight tube up to 13 cm long, and with free 

tepal segments that are whitish, with or without a red to 

pink dorsal line. In most species the tepal segments are 

connivent to a bell or a funnel, except in C. bambusetum, 

where the segments are spreading and reflexed. The 

filaments are most often declinate (i.e. assembled in a fas-

Reproduction 

CRINUM 171 

cicle below the style), rarely spreading and arcuate. The 

fruits are in principle capsules, with a membranaceous 

or fleshy fruit wall (pericarp), bursting irregularly or 

rotting rather than bursting, with several large greyish 

or greenish, subglobose to irregularly compressed seeds, 

5–10 mm in diameter. 

Crinum is a large pantropical genus, including some 

100 species, of which c. 50 are represented in Africa, and 

four in Ethiopia. The genus is widespread in the tropics, 

and particularly the group of species with straight tubes 

and spreading tepal segments are found all around the 

tropics, in the New as well as the Old World Tropics. 

The species with curved tubes and segments forming a 

funnel or bell are restricted to the Old World Tropics, and 

they have their main distribution in Africa. The centre 

of variation of the genus is in southern Africa, and the 

number of species is decreasing from the south to the 

north. The number of endemic species also decreases 

towards the north, but still two of the four Ethiopian 

species are endemic or nearendemic. 

The most common species found in cultivation in 

Ethiopia appears to be a South African cultivar, C. × 

powelli, which differs from the other species by having 

a distinct false stem, and pinkish flowers without distinct 

bands on the tepals. 

The flowers produce large amounts of nectar from the 

septal glands in the ovary, excreted into the bottom of 

the deep narrow tube. The flowers tend to smell most 

intensive in the evening, and they are certainly pollinated 

by large hawkmoths with a proboscis more than 12 

cm long. The two different flower morphs found in the 

genus (bellshaped vs. starshaped) might be attributed to 

different pollinators, but observations are lacking. 

When the fruits are mature, the scape tends to bend, 

placing the fruits on the ground. This is not a particularly 

efficient seed dispersal mechanism, seeds being located 

in small heaps close to the mother plant. The seeds in 

this genus are only covered by a thin membrane, lacking 

the protective seed coat of most other lilies. This is 

due to the fact that the integuments of the ovules never 

develop. Accordingly, the seeds are not able to survive 

a dry season, and have to germinate in the same rainy 

season as they are produced, sometimes even starting to 

germinate within the fruit. The large seeds contain much 

endosperm, and within a relatively short period they can


Conservation 


produce small bulbs with contractile roots that drag them 

into the soil. As subterranean small plants, rather than 

seeds, they are able to survive the next dry season. In 

mature plants most leaves are withering during the dry 

season, the plant rapidly developing new leaves from 

the base with the first rains. Flowers and fruits are then 

developed during a fairly short time (facilitated by the 

storage of water and nutrition in the large bulbs). 

The genus has a great horticultural potential, and both 

native and exotic species are grown as ornamentals. 

The only nearendemic species, Crinum abyssinicum, is 

widespread in Ethiopia and north Somalia, and probably 

not threatened. For C. bambusetum, with few populations 

in Ethiopia and unknown status in the Sudan, care should 

be taken. 

1. Inflorescence with 20–40 flowers, pedicels more than 2.5 cm long; flowers 

star-shaped, with straight tube and reflexed free tepals 1. C. bambusetum 

- Inflorescences with less than 15 flowers, flowers sessile to shortly pedicellate, 

with curved tube and free tepals connivent, to form bells or funnels 2 

2. Cultivated plants with a distinct false stem, constituted by the sheathing leaf 

bases C. × powelli 

- Plants from the wild without a distinct false stem 3 

3. Leaves without a distinct midrib, undulate with scabrid margin, only few young 

leaves with intact apices; 7–14 flowers, subsessile or pedicels up to 2 cm, 

inflorescence subtended by early withering and drooping bracts 

2. C. macowanii 

- Leaves with a distinct midrib, not undulate, without scabrid margin, not 

undulate, most leaves with intact apices, flowers 2–7 (–9), sessile, subtended 

by more or less erect involucral bracts 4 

4. Leaves green, not glaucous; tepals with a sharply bordered broad dark reddish 

band, visible on both sides of the segment 3. C. ornatum 

- Leaves glaucous; tepals pure white or slightly pink flushed outside in apical 

parts, pure white on the inside 4. C. abyssinicum

Crinum bambusetum 

Description 


distribution 

1. Crinum bambusetum Nordal & Sebsebe 

CRINUM 173 

The specific epithet ‘bambusetum’ refers to the fact that 

this species is the only Crinum which grows in bamboo 

thickets. It was recently (in 2002) discovered and 

described. It belongs to a group of species with radially 

symmetrical flowers and reflexed tepals (‘Stenaster’). 

Only one representative of this group is found on the 

Horn of Africa. 

Leaves without a distinct midrib, lacking intact apices. Scape up to 

60 cm. Involucral bracts papery and early drooping. Flowers 12–40, 

distinctly pedicellate, pedicels up to 4 cm long. Buds nodding before 

anthesis. Perianth tube straight, at anthesis up to 13 mm long, tepals 

narrowly lanceolate, reflexed, whitish, tinged pink on the outside, 

about 6 to 10 cm long; filaments reddish, arcuate, anthers c. 7 mm; 

style pink. Fruits not known. 

This species is found in openings in bamboo thickets 

(Oxytenanthera abyssinica) around 1500 m, and it is 

only known from a few populations near Assosa in the 

Wellega floristic region. The closest re lative is Crinum 

subcernuum Baker from southern Africa. The main 

flowering period is from May to June. Recent molecular 

Fig. 84. Crinum bambusetum, from west of Assosa, Wellega floristic region.


Crinum macowanii 

Description 


distribution 

analyses have shown that the radial symmetrical 

Crinum species (i.e.’Stenaster) in Africa have two plant 

geographical connections: to America and to Asia, C. 

bambusetum connects towards the east, i.e. to the Asiatic 

taxa. 

2. Crinum macowanii Baker 

The specific epithet refers to MacOwan, a South African 

plant collector in the 19 th century. It was described by 

Baker in 1878. It belongs to the group of Crinums with 

connivent, rather than recurved tepals, thus forming a 

bell (‘Codo no crinum’), rather than a star (‘Stenaster’). 

The species is recognised by its glaucous undulate 

leaves, lacking entire apices (due to the fact that all leaves 

wither down in the dry season and grow from the base 

in the rainy season). It is the only Ethiopian species in 

‘Codonocrinum’ that has pedicellate (stalked) flowers. 

Leaves glaucous, broadly lanceolate, 10–60 × 6–10 cm at anthesis, 

more or less prostrate, without a distinct midrib, and most leaves 

lacking intact apices. Scape 10–30 cm. Involucral bracts papery, 

and early drooping. Buds erect. Flowers 7–14, subsessile to 

pedicellate, up to 2 cm, perianth tube curved, 8–12 cm, free part 

of tepals white with a faint pink dorsal band, not sharply bordered, 

broadly lanceolate, 8–11 × 2–3 cm, forming a bell. Filaments white, 

declinate; anthers dark, c. 10 mm; style white, tinged pink distally. 

Fruits green, fading to dull yellow, with a thin pericarp closely 

enveloping the 20–60 seeds, giving an irregular undulate surface, 

often by the remains of the perianth tube. Seeds greenish, covered 

with a silvery grey water repellent membrane making them very 

smooth, variable in shape and size, but often flattened. 

The species is found in grassland and open Acacia 

bushland, often on heavily grazed and degraded land, on 

heavy blackish to reddish soils, from 1000 to 2600 m. It 

is recorded from the Wellega, Arsi, GamoGofa, Sidamo 

and Harerge floristic regions, and also from Eritrea. This 

is one of the most widespread Crinum species in Africa, 

distributed from South Africa to Ethiopia. The flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from April to June.

Fig. 85. Crinum 

ornatum, from 

Uganda, grown 

in Oslo, Norway. 

Crinum ornatum 

Description 


distribution 

3. Crinum ornatum (Aiton) Bury 

CRINUM 175 

The specific epithet ‘ornatum’ means ador ned and 

decorative, being the stem of the word ‘ornamentals’, 

plants that are cultivated for their beauty. It was the first 

Cri num discovered in Africa, and was descri bed by Aiton 

already in 1789, based on material from West Africa. Linnaeus 

(1753) knew this species from West Africa, but he 

regarded it as con spe cific with Amaryllis zeylanicum from 

Ceylon/Sri Lanka. Like Crinum mac owanii, it belongs in 

the group of Crinums with tepals forming a bell (i.e. ‘Codo 

no cri num’). It is recognised by its nonglaucous leaves 

with more or less entire apices and distinct midribs, the 

erect involucral bracts, and by the strong red bands of 

the perianth segments, visible from both sides of the 

otherwise pure white flowers. 

Leaves not glaucous, patent to semierect, narrowly lanceolate, most 

often with intact apices, 30 × 2.5–6 cm, with distinct midrib. Scape 

20–50 cm, contemporary with the leaves. Involucral bracts stout, 

erect, persistent until after an thesis, greenish tinged red. Flowers 

sessile, 3–7 (–9), tube curved, 8–10 cm, free parts of tepals, white, 

with a broad, sharply bordered, dark red, crimson or violet band, 

visible on both sides, broadly lanceolate, 8–10 × c. 2 cm, forming 

a bell. Filaments white tinged red, declinate shorter than the tepals; 

anthers, 8–10 mm; style tinged red distally. Fruits greenish tinged 

red, with a thick pericarp, subglobose without or with a very short 

apical beak. Seeds light green, closely stacked and irregularly 

compressed, 15–45 per fruit. 

It is found in wooded grassland, woodland or open 

forests, sometimes in abandoned cultivated fields, often


Notes 

Crinum abyssinicum 

Description 

FIg. 86. Crinum 

abyssinicum, 

from near 

Dinshu, Bale 


along rivers or in swampy depressions, on red sandy or 

dark brown loamy soils, between 650 and 2000 m. It 

is recorded from the Tigray, Shewa, Kefa, Arsi, Bale, 

Gojam, Illubabor and Harerge floristic regions, with its 

northernmost limit in Eritrea. This species is otherwise 

widespread in a transition zone between forest and 

savannah in Tropical Africa, west to Senegal and south 

to Namibia. The flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

April to June, except in Kefa where it appears to flower 

in February. 

This taxon was regarded as conspecific with C. zeylanicum 

(L.) L. by Nordal (1982) in the Flora of Tropical East 

Africa (like Linnaeus 230 years earlier). The two taxa 

are morphologically similar, but recent investigations, 

including molecular data, have suggested that the African 

C. ornatum and the Asiatic C. zey la nicum, although 

closely related, should be kept as two different species. 

4. Crinum abyssinicum Hochst. ex A.Rich. 

The specific epithet refers to the Latin name for Ethiopia, 

‘Abyssinia’, where the species was discovered by 

Hochstetter, and later described by A. Richard in 1850. 

This species is the most common Ethiopian Crinum. Its 

closest relative is C. ornatum, differing by its glaucous 

leaves and the completely white or faintly pinktinged 

tepals. 

Leaves glaucous to greyish green, erect, linear to narrowly lanceolate, 

mostly with intact apices and distinct midrib, 40 × 1–3.5 (–5) cm. 

Scape 40–80 cm. Involucral bracts erect for a while, papery. Flowers


distribution 

Notes 

Ammocharis tinneana 

CRINUM AMMOCHARIS PANCRATIUM 177 

2–6, sessile (rarely subsessile). Flowers pure white or sometimes 

tinged pink, only rarely with a pink dorsal line; tube curved (3–) 

6–10 cm, free part of tepals broadly lanceolate, 8–10 × c. 2 cm, 

forming a bell; filaments white, declinate 4–6 cm, anthers 6–10 mm; 

style white, as long as the tepals. Fruits greenish, sometimes tinged 

red, with a thick fleshy pericarp, subglobose without an apical beak. 

Seeds not seen. 

This species grows typically in waterlogged valley 

grasslands and swampy depressions or along stream 

banks, sometimes in fallow fields, on black clayish and 

loamy soils, from 1650 to 3100 m. It has been recorded 

from most floristic regions in Ethiopia and also in Eritrea, 

but is not known outside the Horn of Africa. The flowering 

period is from April to July (August). 

The species was earlier referred Crinum schimperi, the 

name C. abys si nicum then being restricted to a form with 

a short flower tube. It has been shown that this difference 

might be due to the young developental stage of the 

type specimen of C. abyssinicum. There is no reason for 

splitting. 

3. AMMOCHARIS Herb. 

This genus is closely related to Crinum. The only 

real difference is in the leaf arrangement, which is 

biflabellate in Ammocharis, i.e. the leaves are organised 

in two opposite, prostrate fans. The flowers are radially 

symmetrical with long narrow tubes, and reflexed free 

tepals, like in Crinum bambusetum. There are three 

species in the genus, all African, only one of which is 

recorded in Ethiopia. 

Ammocharis tinneana (Kotschy & Peyr.) Milne- 

Redh. & Schweick. 

This species is named after the plant collector Tinné, 

who collected plants in the Sudan. It was described in 

the genus Cri num by Kotschy and Peyritsch in 1867, and 

transferred to the closely related genus Ammocharis by 

MilneRedhead and Schweickert in 1939.


Fig. 87. Ammocharis tinneana, (left) floweing plant form near Mega; (right) 

rosettes from near Negelle, both Sidamo floristic region. 

Description 


distribution 

Bulb up to 12 cm in diameter, with a distinct neck. Leaves spreading 

on the ground in two opposite fans, 1–3 cm broad, sometimes with 

ci li ate margins, length varying with age, appearing before or after 

the flowers. Scapes 5–25 cm, prostrate. Inflorescence with 10–30 

flowers. Pedi cels 1–4 cm long. Flowers pale pink with darker midribs, 

fading to crimson or magenta with age, sweetly scented; tube 

6–10cm long; segments 4–8 × 0.3–0.5 cm, spirally recurved towards 

the apex at anthesis. Stamens arcuate, pink, 3–6 cm long, anthers 

4–9 mm. Fruit reddish, subglobose, 2–2.5 cm in diameter. 

This species grows in open AcaciaCom mi phora bushland, 

on more or less bare, reddish to brownish soils, tolerating 

heavy grazing and also erosion, from 1000 to 1800 m in 

the Bale and Sidamo floristic regions. It is widespread 

from Namibia and Botswana in the south to Ethiopia in 

the north. Few flowering specimens have been collected 

from Ethiopia, but indicating that the species may have 

a two-peaked flowering period, around April and around 

October, probably flowering before the rains. 

4. PANCRATIUM L. 

This genus is easily recognised by its whitish, more or 

less long-tubed flowers with a cylinder-like corona of 

fused filaments, which, however, in one of the Ethiopian 

species is reduced to double teeth between the stamens. 

The inflorescences consist of one to few flowers, 

subtended by two more or less fused bracts. The flowers 

are radially symmetrical, with free, linear and spreading

Reproduction 

Conservation 


PANCRATIUM 179 

tepal segments. The bases of the filaments are fused to a 

cylindrical corona in P. tenuifolium, and reduced to short 

teeth in P. centrale. The fruit is a dry loculicidal capsule 

including several black angular seeds in each chamber. 

There are about 20 species in Africa, the Mediterranean 

region and southern Asia, four species occur in tropical 

Africa, and two are found in Ethiopia, Pancratium tenuifolium 

and P. centrale. Another Pancratium species is 

cultivated in the upland Eritrea. It is a robust plant with 

up to five flowers, and may belong to the Mediterranean 

P. maritimum L. 

The white flowers, fragrant in the evening, indicate 

hawkmoth pollination. The dry erect capsules, opening 

by slits from the top, procure a mechanism for ballistic 

seed dispersal. 

Pancratium tenuifolium is widespread in the drier parts 

of the African savannah grasslands and should not need 

particular protection, although it is not really common 

in Ethiopia. The narrow endemic P. centrale needs 

particular attention. 

1. Leaves pubescent at the base, scape shorter than 10 cm; flowers sessile, 

perianth tube longer than 8 cm, corona longer than 2 cm, filament length 

1–2 cm 1. P. tenuifolium 

- Leaves glabrous, scape longer than 15 cm; flowers with pedicel 1–2.5 cm 

long, perianth tube 1.5–2 cm, corona reduced to 12 teeth, 5 mm long, 

filament length 0.2 cm 2. P. centrale 

Pancratium 

tenuifolium 

Description 

1. Pancratium tenuifolium A.Rich. 

The specific epithet ‘tenuifolium’ refers to the narrow 

leaves (tenuis = slender, folium = leaf). Richard described 

the species in 1850, ba sed on material from Ethiopia. It is 

closely related to the West African P. tri anthum (meaning 

three-flowered), which reaches the Sudan, but it is so far 

not known from Ethiopia. 

Leaves 30–40 × 0.3–1 cm, finely pubescent near the base. Scape, 

1–10 cm long, slightly to finely pubescent. Inflorescence one-


Fig. 88. 

Pancratium 

tenuifolium, 

from Wellega 



distribution 

flowered, enclosed in a pale membranaceous, bifid involucrum. 

Flowers sessile. Perianth tube 9–12 cm, slender, pale green; free 

tepal segments 5–10cm long, up to 1 cm broad, white or cream 

with greenish median stripe; corona 2–4 cm with 2 triangular lobes 

between each pair of stamens. Filaments 1–2 cm long, anthers 5–8 

mm. Capsule subglobose to cylindrical, up to 2.5 cm long, with up 

to 30 seeds. Seeds black, glossy, sub globose to angular, c. 4 mm in 

diameter. 

This species is found in open woodland, thorn scrub or 

sparsely vegetated grassland, on sandy or clay soils, from 

550 to 1800 m. It is recorded from the Tigray, Gonder, 

Shewa, Afar, Wellega, Illubabor and Har erge floristic 

regions in Ethiopia and also in Eritrea. This species is 

otherwise widely distributed in drier parts of the Sudano 

Zambesian savannah area, from Senegal in the west to 

Namibia and Botswana in the south. The flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from March to May.

Notes 

Pancratium centrale 

Fig. 89. 

Pancratium 

centrale, from 

near Assosa, 


region. 

PANCRATIUM 181 

One collection of a species with broader and twisted 

leaves made on sand dunes of lowland Eritrea, might be 

conspecific with P. tortuosum, otherwise distributed in 

Arabia and Egypt. More studies are needed. 

2. Pancratium centrale (A. Chev.) Traub 

The species epithet ‘centrale’ refers to Central Africa, 

where A. Chevalier collected a few cultivated specimens 

in 1903 (areas now belonging to Chad). He described 

it in the new genus Mizonia, which is now a synonym 

of Pancratium. The species is very distinct within the 

genus Pancratium, due to the short perianth tube and the 

reduced corona of 12 short teeth.


Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Leaves, 30–50 × 1–3.5 cm, glabrous. Scape 18–20 cm long, glabrous; 

inflorescence (1–)2–3-flowered, subtended by a membranaceous 

entire bract, sometimes with an apical split. Pedicels 1–2.5 cm long. 

Perianth tube 1–2 cm long; free tepal segments 3–5.5 cm long, 0.5– 

0.8 cm wide, pure white, spreading; corona reduced to 12 triangular 

teeth, i.e. two teeth between each of the 6 stamens, each tooth up to 

5 mm long. Filaments c. 2 mm long, about 1 cm long, style slightly 

over topping the anthers at anthesis. Capsules 3.5–4 cm long and 1.2 

cm wide, carrying the persistent perianth tube at the apex. Seeds 

black, several, globose, 4–5 mm in diameter. 

It grows in open Combretum-Terminalia bushland at 

1370 m, and is so far only known from the wild near 

Assosa in Welle ga. It has otherwise been collected a few 

times in Chad (in cultivation), Cameroon and the Central 

African Republic. The flowering pe riod in Ethiopia is 


The species has, as indicated above, a very short perianth 

tube compared to the other species in the genus. This 

might indicate that the pollinators are smaller hawkmoths 

with a relatively short proboscis. The rarity of the 

species indicates that it is vulnerable.



Reproduction 

HYACINTHACEAE 

SCHIZOBASIS DIPCADI 183 

The family includes bulbous plants with leaves, often more 

or less spotted, filiform to lanceolate, in a basal rosette. 

The scape is glabrous and leafless. The inflorescence is 

usually a raceme or a spike, rarely extremely branched 

(as in Schizobasis). The flowers are white to greenish, 

yellowish, or purplish, often with a darker green or 

purple midrib. The tepals are free or fused into a shorter 

or longer tube. The ovaries include one to many ovules 

per locule. The fruit is most often a loculicidal capsule, 

that means it splits between the walls separating its three 

chambers, rarely it is septicidal, i.e. it splits along the 

separating walls. The seeds are black, subglobose or 

flattened, sometimes winged. 

Hyacinthaceae is related to the Alliaceae (the onion 

family), differing mainly in chemistry and inflorescence, 

which is umbellike in the latter. The sulphur compounds 

giving the particular smell and taste of members of the 

onion family are lacking in the hyacinths. Amaryllidaceae 

is also related, sharing the features of a typical bulb, the 

basal leaf rosette and the glabrous scape, differing in 

the umbel-like inflorescence similar to the onions; and 

further by the inferior ovary. 

The family is widely distributed in tropical to temperate 

areas worldwide. Its centres of diversity are in Southern 

Africa and in the Mediterranean area. Taxonomists 

today disagree on the generic delimitation; from 40 to 

67 genera are recently reported. On species number the 

agreement is better, and c. 900 species are accepted. 

On the Horn of Africa there are 7 genera: Schizobasis, 

Dipcadi, Drimiopsis, Ledebouria, Drimia, Albuca, and 

Ornithogalum. All these genera have centres of variation 

in southern Africa. Dipcadi, Drimia, and Ornithogalum 

reach the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. The 

species from the Horn of African find their closest 

relatives in the south. 

Pollen and nectar are offered as floral rewards. The nectar 

is produced in the septal walls of the ovary, and secreted

184 HYACINTHACEAE 


use 

Conservation 


in the bottom of the flower. Colour and scent are the chief 

floral attractions. One of the genera, Drimiopsis, has 

more or less closed flowers, but produce both nectar and 

smell, and they are probably pollinated by robust insects 

that manage to force their probosces into the flowers to 

reach the nectar. 

Most species have upright scapes and capsules 

oriented upwards, with apical splits. These are typical 

traits of ballistic dispersal, which means that the seeds 

are thrown out of the capsule by heavy wind or pushes 

by animals. Some species, however, have lax scapes and 

place the seeds on the ground, not dispersed or to be 

further dispersed by smaller animals like ants. 

The family includes several taxa with cardioactive 

steroids (bufo dieno lids in Drimia and cardenolids in 

Ornithogalum). The family includes several ornamentals 

of commercial value, as the hyacinths. None of the 

Ethiopian species have so far been used in horticulture, 

but a few might have a potential. 

Of the 21 Ethiopian species, three are endemic (Drimia 

exigua, Drimia simensis, and Ledebouria urceolata) and 

two are nearendemic (Drimiopsis spicata and Ledebouria 

somaliensis), indicating a total (near) endemicity of 

about 25%. The mentioned taxa should be surveyed and 

possibly protected. 

1. Inflorescence much branched; leaves lacking or strongly reduced 1. Schizobasis 

- Inflorescence a spike or a raceme, not branched, basal leaves present (but may 

be developed after the flowering) 2 

2. Inner tepals forming a distinct tube, outer tepals usually with a tail-like 

appendage 2. Dipcadi 

- Inner tepals not forming a distinct tube, outer tepals lacking a tail-like 

appendage 3 

3. Bracts absent; flowers globose to shortly cylindrical, tepals up to 6 mm long, 

at least the inner ones connivent covering the stamens and the ovary; 

ovary with 2 ovules per locus 3. Drimiopsis 

- Bracts present; flowers most often stellate, that is with tepals spreading, 

if connivent (as in Albuca) then tepals at least 8 mm long; ovary with 2 

to several ovules per locus 4

SCHIZOBASIS 185 

4. Filaments usually purple; ovaries with 2 (rarely one) ovules per locus; 

seeds subglobose 4. Ledebouria 

- Filaments whitish or greenish; ovaries with several ovules per locus; seeds 

flattened 5 

5. Bracts with a spur; tepals usually fused at the base, seeds winged 5. Drimia 

- Bracts without a spur; tepals always free, seeds not winged 6 

6. Tepals yellowish to greenish, inner tepals connivent, outer ± spreading, 

base of the filaments clasping the ovary 6. Albuca 

- Tepals white, with or without a green midrib, all spreading, filaments 

not clasping the ovary 7. Ornithogalum 

Schizobasis intricata 

1. SCHIZOBASIS Baker 

The leaves, all disappearing early in the growing season, 

are filiform with expanded leaf bases, which through 

the seasons build the bulb. The plants are otherwise 

made up of a fairly short peduncle and an extremely 

branched green inflorescence, which plays the major role 

in photosynthesis. The bracts are lanceolate and carry a 

spur (pocketlike extension) at the base. The tepals are 

free, broadly lanceolate, whitish, meeting at the apices 

and loosening from the base when withered, forming a 

cap on the developing capsule. The capsules are ellipsoid 

with black, flattened seeds. 

The genus includes 5 species distributed from 

South to Eastern Africa. The genus has a close relative 

in Bowiaea, sharing the traits of reduced leaves and 

extremely branched inflorescences that have taken over 

photosynthesis. The latter is much larger, up to 3 m, and 

climbing. This genus has its northern limit in Northern 

Uganda, and might also occur in SW Ethiopia even if it 

is so far not recorded. 

Schizobasis intricata (Baker) Baker 

The species epithet refers to the ’intricate’ extremely 

branched inflorescence. The spe cies was described in the 

genus Anthe ricum by Baker in 1872; two years later he 

transferred it to a new genus, Schizobasis. The type is 

from South Africa.


Description 


distribution 


Plants up to 25 cm. Bulb up to 3 cm in diameter, leaves not present 

at anthesis. More than 200 flowers in the branched inflorescence. 

Bracts c. 1 mm, spurs up to 2 mm long. Pedicels c. 10 mm long. 

Tepals c. 3 mm long. Capsule ellipsoid, about 4 mm long. Seeds 

black, flattened, up to 2mm long. 

The species is found on steep shaded rocky areas in 

degraded bushland/low woodland between 1400 and 

1900 m, at a few sites in the Shewa and Harerge floristic 

regions. It is has an extreme ly disjunct distribution in 

Africa: Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, 

Namibia, and South Africa. The flowering period in 

Ethiopia has not been traced. 

2. DIPCADI Medicus 

This genus includes relatively slender plants with 

small bulbs. The leaves are filiform to lanceolate. The 

inflorescence is a raceme with recurved pedicels when 

flowering, turning upwards in the fruiting stage. The 

flowers are yellowish green to green brown. The tepals 

are fused from ¼ to ½ of their length forming a tube. 

The outer tepals are spreading from near the middle and 

most often they carry shorter and longer tails (‘caudate 

appendages’). The filaments are flattened, inserted at the 

mouth of the tube. The ovary and capsule are sessile or 

on a short stalk (‘stipitate’). The seeds are numerous, 

flattened and black. 

The genus includes about 30 species distributed in 

Africa, in the Mediterranean region east to Central Asia, 

India and Sri Lanka. 

1. Leaves filiform to lanceolate, glabrous; outer tepals with longer or shorter tails 

1. D. viride 

- Leaves filiform, with hairs; outer tepals without a tail 2. D. marlothii

Dipcadi viride 

Description 


distribution 

Notes 

Fig. 90. Dipcadi 

viride, (left) 

flowers with 

long appendages 

on the tepals, 

form Shewa 

floristic region; 

(right) flowers 

with short 

appendages on 

the tepals, from 

Tanzania. 

1. Dipcadi viride (L.) Moench 

SCHIZOBASIS DIPCADI 187 

The species epithet ‘viride’, meaning green, refers to 

the colour of the flowers. It was described by Linnaeus 

as early as 1762, by him referred to the genus Hyacinthus, 

on the basis of material from the Cape in South 

Africa. Moench transferred it to Dipcadi in 1802. The 

appendages on the outer tepals are characteristic for this 

heterogeneous species complex. 

Plants 20–60 cm long. Leaves, 1–15, very variable in length and 

width, up to 80 cm long and 2 cm broad, filiform, linear to broadly 

lanceolate, smooth, margin sometimes undulate. Raceme with 5–40 

flowers. Pedicels 2–8 mm, up to 11 mm in fruit. Bracts 6–17 mm. 

Flowers yellowish green to brownish green. Tepals 8–13 mm, outer 

with up to 30 mm long caudate appendages. Capsule 6–14 mm long, 

6–15 mm in diameter. Seeds 4–7 mm long. 

This species is found in grassland, bush land or woodland, 

in sandy, stony, sometimes blackish soils, from 450 to 

3200 m. It is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It has 

otherwise a wide distribution in tropical and southern 

Africa. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

February to June. 

The species is heterogeneous and more detailed field 

studies might justify more taxa on the subspecific – or 

even – the specific level. The variation is particularly 

pronounced in leaf width and tepal tail length, cf. the two 

plants presented in the Figure, representing one shorttailed 

and one long-tailed version. In fact, five species 

were described from Ethiopia, here all are referred to D. 

viride in the wide sense: D. tacazzeanum from Tigray, 

D. minimum and D. rupicola from Gonder, D. erlangeri 

from Bale, and the generic wrongly placed Albuca 

hyacin thoides from Sidamo. With information from the


Dipcadi marlothii 

Description 


distribution 

herbarium specimens, it has been difficult to find any 

discontinuity in single characters and correlation in 

variation among characters, the species have thus been 

‘lumped’ to a single species. 

The adaptive role of tepal appendages is not known. 

One might guess that it is related to features of the 

pollinator. The plants excrete nectar, as all Hyacinthaceae, 

and might attract insects by smell; as to visual attraction 

they are not very impressive, at least not with human 

eyes. 

2. Dipcadi marlothii Engler 

The species epithet is honouring Mr. Mar loth, who 

collected the first plants representing this species in 

Botswana. It was described by Engler in 1889.The 

species is easily distinguished from D. viride by its hairy 

leaves and tepals without appendages. 

Small plants about 15 cm tall. Bulb c. 1.5 cm in diameter. Leaves 

filiform, pubescent. Raceme few-flowered. Bracts c. 6 mm, pedicels 

c. 3 mm. Tepals up to 15 mm, the outer ones lacking the caudate 

appendages otherwise common in the genus. Capsules and seeds 

not known. 

This species grows in bushland on red soils around 830 

m, only collected once in the Harerge floristic region. 

It has an extremely disjunct distribution in Kenya, 

Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. On a 

regional scale, more analyses are necessary to find out 

whether the Southern African plants really represent the 

same species as the Ethiopian (and Kenyan?) ones. The 

flowering period in Ethiopia is in November. 

3. DRIMIOPSIS Lindl. & Paxt. 

This genus includes plants that often have spotted leaves 

that are narrowly to broadly lanceolate. The inflorescence 

is (sub)spicate and different from all other genera in the 

family in that the flowers are not supported by bracts. The 

flowers are globular to shortly cylindrical, and the three 

inner do not open, except for a small apical hole where 

insects with a strong proboscis may gain access to the


DIPCADI DRIMIOPSIS 189 

nectar. The tepals are united at the base, green to white, 

sometimes blue (in D. spicata), often persistent in fruit. 

The filaments are flattened and triangular. The ovaries are 

sessile with 1–2 basal ovules per locule; style as long as 

the ovary, slender with a minute stigma. The capsules are 

subglobose, usually with 1–2 seeds, which are globose 

to ovoid with a folded, black shiny surface. The scape is 

more or less prostrate in the fruit stage, and ant dispersal 

might be suspected. 

The genus includes about 15 species in Africa south 

of the Sahara, and reaches its northern limit in Ethiopia. 

In South Africa there is a group of species with petiolate 

leaves and basic chromosome number, n=10; in tropical 

Africa there is a group of species with sessile leaves and 

n=11. The Ethiopian taxa belong to the latter group. 

1. Leaves narrowly lanceolate; flowers blue, both outer and 

inner tepals connivent at anthesis 1. D. spicata 

- Leaves broadly lanceolate; flowers white, outer tepals spreading, 

inner ones conniven 2. D. botryoides 

Drimiopsis spicata 

Description 

1. Drimiopsis spicata (Baker) Sebsebe & Stedje 

The species epithet refers to the spicate inflorescence, 

which is not typical for the genus Scilla, in which Baker 

described it in 1878, based on material from the Sudan. 

It was transferred to the genus Drimi opsis by Sebsebe 

and Stedje in 2005. It is easily recognised from all other 

species in the genus Drimiopsis by its blue flowers; all 

other species have whitish to green flowers. In the Flora 

of Ethiopia and Eritrea, Drimiopsis spicata was referred 

to D. barteri, which is among the green-flowered ones. 

The species appears to bridge the two genera, Ledebouria 

(which shares the flower colour) and Drimiopsis (which 

shares the reduced bracts, the closed flower and the 

sessile ovary). It might have originated as an intergeneric 

hybrid which has overcome sterility, and formed 

a distinct species. 

Plants 15–22 cm long. Leaves narrowly lanceolate, ca 17 × 2 cm. 

Inflorescence a dense spike. Flowers on very short pedicels. Tepals 

purplish to bluish, 2–2.5 mm long, connivent in upper parts, closing


Fig. 91. Drimiopsis spicata, cultivated in Addis Ababa, original specimen 

from Wellega floristic region. 


distribution 

Drimiopsis 

botryoides 

the flowers. Inner segments slightly narrower than the outer. The 

ovary is sessile, not stipitate. 

The species occurs in grassland at the mar gin of 

Combretum-Terminalia woodland, in annually flooded 

meadows near river banks, recorded from the Illubabor 

and Wel lega floristic regions. It appears to be endemic 

to Western Ethiopia and the Equatorial province of the 

Sudan. The flowering period is from April to May. 

2. Drimiopsis botryoides Baker 

The Greek species epithet, ‘botryoides’ means ‘like a 

bunch of grapes’ and refers to the dense inflorescence 

with globose flowers. It was described by Baker in 1870 

on material from East Africa without precise locality. 

Within Eastern Africa it is easily distinguished by its 

broad leaves and the spreading outer tepals, leaving the 

inner ones alone to close the flower. The white flowers 

immediately separate it from the only other Ethiopian 

species, Drimi opsis spicata.

Description 


distribution 

DRIMIOPSIS LEDEBOURIA 191 

Plants up to 20 cm long. Leaves broadly lanceolate, up to 17 × 8 cm. 

Inflorescence subspicate, pedicels ca 1 mm long. Tepals white, ca 3 

mm long, outer ones spreading at anthesis, inner connivent, usually 

wider than the outer. 

The species is only known from bushland, altitude not 

known. It is rare and has only been recorded from the 

Sidamo floristic region (possibly crossing the border into 

Bale). The Ethiopian material represents the northernmost 

extension of the species, otherwise widespread in Eastern 

Africa. The flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to 

May. 

4. LEDEBOURIA Roth 

This genus is closely related to Drimiopsis, including 

plants with basal leaves which are spotted and narrowly 

to broadly lanceolate. Ledebouria differs, however, 

by having reflexed tepals, revealing the stamens and 

style, which are hidden by the tepals in Drimiopsis. The 

flowers are further supported by bracts, and the flowers 

always have purplishviolet stamens and style, often also 

the tepals. All taxa described before 1970 were originally 

included in the genus Scilla, a genus with blue tepals, 

distributed mainly in Europe to Asia Minor and Caucasus, 

possibly also with representatives in Africa. To define the 

generic boundaries more investigations are needed. It is 

clear, however, that Ledebouria is more closely related to 

Drimiopsis than to Scilla. 

In Ledebouria the scape is more or less flexuous to 

prostrate. The inflorescence is a lax to dense raceme, 

with flowers supported by minute bracts. The pedicels 

are erect to ascending. The tepals, green to purplish, are 

free or united at the base, reflexed for shorter or longer 

parts of their length. The filiform filaments are fused with 

to the tepals at the base. The ovaries are slightly stalked 

(‘stipitate’) with few ovules. The capsules and seeds are 

otherwise similar to those found in Drimiopsis. 

The genus Ledebouria includes some 20 species in 

Africa, Arabia and India, of which 6 are represented in 

Ethiopia. Taxonomically it is a complicated group, and 

more field observations are welcomed.



1. Tepals 9 mm long or more 2 

- Tepals 8 mm or less 3 

2. Pedicels up to 3 mm long 1. L. somaliensis 

- Pedicels 5 mm or more 2. L. kirkii 

3. Leaves linear up to 7 mm wide 3. L. edulis 

- Leaves lanceolate to cordate, more than 15 mm wide 4 

4. Tepals about 3 mm wide, 1–2 times longer than wide, only reflexed in the 

apical part. 4. L. urceolata 

- Tepals up to 2 mm wide, more than 2 times longer than wide, reflexed from 

the lower part 5 

5. Leaves cordate to broadly lanceolate, with purple papillae above 

5. L. cordifolia 

- Leaves narrowly lanceolate, without papillae above, but often with purple 

spots beneath 6. L. revoluta 

Ledebouria 

somaliensis 

Description 


distribution 

1. Ledebouria somaliensis (Baker) Stedje & 

Thulin 

The species epithet refers to Somalia from where this 

species was first described by Baker in 1892, then 

referring it to the genus Scilla. Stedje and Thulin, when 

revising Hyacinthaceae on the Horn of Africa, transferred 

the species to Ledebouria in 1995. It is a robust plant, 

recognised by its large flowers (segments 9 mm or more) 

and its short pedicels (up to 3 mm). The closest relative 

appears to be L. kirkii, which has longer pedicels. 

Plants up to 30 cm long. Leaves lanceolate, up to 17 × 3 cm. 

Inflorescence 5–20 cm long, relatively lax with up to 70 flowers. 

Pedicels 1–3 mm long. Tepals green to purple, 9–11 mm long, 

reflexed at anthesis. Filaments, usually purplish, 7–9 mm long. 

Capsule c. 8 mm long, seeds c. 5 mm long. 

The species is found in grassland, bush land or open 

woodland, on sandy or rocky ground between 400 and 

1500 m, recorded from the Sidamo and Harege floristic 

regions. It is otherwise found in adjacent Somalia and 

Kenya. The flowering period in Ethiopia is early in the 

rains, from April to June and in November.

Fig. 92. 

Ledebouria 

somaliensis, 

from Sidambale 

bridge, Sidamo 


Ledebouria kirkii 

Description 


distribution 

Ledebouria edulis 

Description 


2. Ledebouria kirkii (Baker) Stedje & Thulin 

The species epithet refers to the collector, Kirk, who 

collected the plant for the first time in Zanzibar. Like the 

former species it is among the largest Ledebouria species, 

but differs by its longer pedicels. 

Plants up to 40 cm long. Leaves lanceolate. Inflorescence c. 8 cm 

long, lax. Pedicels 5–9 mm long. Tepals greenish c. 10 mm long, 

reflexed at anthesis. Filaments purple c. 8 mm long. Capsules and 

seeds as in L. somaliensis. 

The species grows in open woodland, on rocky places, 

and it is found around 900 m in the Sidamo and Bale 

floristic regions. It is otherwise widespread in Somalia, 

Kenya and Tanzania. The flowering period not recorded. 

3. Ledebouria edulis (Engler) Stedje 

The species epithet ‘edulis’ means edible. The species 

was described in the genus Scilla by Engler in 1892 

based on material from the Sudan. It was later transferred 

to Ledebouria by Stedje in 1995. 

Plants small and slender, up to 15 cm long. Leaves linear, c. 12 × 0.7 

cm. Inflorescence c. 3 cm long. Pedicel c. 2 mm long. Tepals c.5 mm 

long. Capsules and seeds not seen.



distribution 

Ledebouria urceolata 

Description 


distribution 

Ledebouria 

cordifolia 

Description 

The species has only been collected once, in the Wellega 

floristic region, and no information is available on habitat 

and flowering period. 

4. Ledebouria urceolata Stedje 

The species epithet refers to the flower form, wich means 

urnshaped. It was described by Stedje in 1995, based on 

material from the Bale floristic region. In all the other 

representatives of the genus the tepals are reflexed for 

more than half of their length, but in this species only 

the outermost parts are recurved. It is possibly the most 

ornamental of the species with its deep purple bellshaped 

nodding flowers. 

Plants up to 30 cm. Leaves lanceolate, up to 9 × 3 cm. Inflorescence 

3–12 cm long, moderately dense with up to 50 flowers. Pedicels 

5–10 mm. Flowers purple, urn to bellshaped. Tepals 4–6 × c. 3 

mm. Filaments c. 4 mm long. Capsule c. 5 mm long. 

The species is found in rocky outcrops or on stony river 

banks between 2500 and 2700 m. It is recorded from 

the Gojam, Shewa, and Bale floristic regions, and it is 

not known elsewhere. Flowering period from August to 

September. 

5. Ledebouria cordifolia (Baker) Stedje & Thulin 

The species epithet ‘cordifolia’ means that the leaves 

are cordate, that is more or less heartshaped. It was 

described by Baker in 1898 in the genus Scilla, based on 

material from Malawi, and later transferred to the genus 

Ledebouria by Stedje and Thulin in 1995. It is a striking 

little plant with one or a few prostrate leaves, clasping 

the stem, often covered by purple papillae and with rather 

small flowers. 

Plants small, up to 15 cm. Leaves cordate to broadly lanceolate, 

usually petiolate, leaf blade up to 8 × 4,5 cm, often covered with 

purple papillae on the upper surface. Inflorescence up to 8 cm long 

with up to 60 flowers. Pedicels 5–8 mm long. Flowers purplish, with 

tepals 3–4 mm long. Capsules and seeds not seen.


distribution 

Ledebouria revoluta 

Fig. 93. 

Ledebouria 

revoluta, 

cultivated plant 

originally from 

Welisso, Shewa 



The species is found in clearings in bush land or 

woodland between 1000 and 1980 m, recorded from 

the Shewa, Sidamo, Bale, and Harerge floristic regions. 

Outside Ethiopia it is widespread in Eastern Africa south 

to Malawi (although recent molecular analyses might 

indicate that it is a polyphyletic species, and that splitting 

into more species might be justified). The flowering 

period Ethiopia is twopeaked, around April and around 

October. 

6. Ledebouria revoluta (L.f.) Jessop 

The species epithet refers to the revolute, meaning 

reflexed tepals, (a trait certainly shared with most species 

of Ledebouria). The son of Linnaeus described it on 

material from the Cape, already in 1782, referring it to 

the genus Hyacinthus. Jessop transferred it to Ledebouria


Description 


distribution 

in 1970. It has small flowers, like the former species, but 

have narrowly lanceolate, not cordate, leaves, and it also 

lacks the papillae of L. cordifolia. 

Plants 935 cm long. Leaves lanceolate, up to 18 × 8 cm, most often 

much narrower, often with purple spots or lines. Inflorescence 3–10 

cm long, relatively lax to dense with up to 60 flowers. Pedicels 3–12 

mm long. Flowers greenish to purplish. Tepals greenish 4–8 mm 

long. Capsule c. 5 mm long. 

The species grows in grassland or open bushland in clay 

and sandy soils between 450 and 2800 m. It is recorded 

from most floristic regions of Ethiopia and Eritrea, and 

it is widespread all over tropical and southern Africa. 

The species is polymorphic and more studies are needed. 

The flowering period in Ethiopia is mainly April to June, 

but flowers have also been collected in September to 

November. 

5. DRIMIA Jacq. 

A genus with white to pink flowers, most often producing 

the flowers before the leaves. Like Schizobasis it has 

bracts carrying a spur (pocketlike extension) at the base, 

and sometimes even an additional one in the middle. The 

function of these spurs is not known. 

The leaves are linear to lanceolate. The erect scape 

carries a spicate inflorescence that is lax or condensed. 

The pedicels are erect or ascending. The tepals are free 

or united. The filaments are free, but may be fused with 

the tepals in the basal end. The ovary has several ovules 

per locule, producing multiseeded capsules that area 

more or less ovoid in shape. The seeds are black, most 

often flattened and winged, with a more or less elliptic 

outline. 

The genus has often been split into two, Drimia and 

Urginea, the former including plants with more or less 

tubular flowers, the latter with more or less stellate 

flowers. There are, however, gradual transitions, and the 

two flower morphs are not correlated with other variable 

traits. 

The genus includes about 100 species in Africa and 

the Mediterranean area with extensions to India. Six 

species are recorded from Ethiopia.


Drimia exigua 

Description 

LEDEBOURIA DRIMIA 197 

(Two rare species, D. macrocarpa and D. brachystachys are only included in 

the key and not further described in the text). 

1. Tepals up to 5 mm long; pedicels up to 5 mm long 1. D. exigua 

- Tepals 5 mm or more; pedicels usually longer than 5 mm, if shorter then 

the tepals at least 8 mm 2 

2. Inflorescence dense, pedicels 5–8 mm long 2. D. simensis 

- Inflorescence lax to moderately dense, pedicels usually more than 8 mm long 3 

3. Tepals ca 18 mm long, pedicels more than 30 mm long, in Ethiopia only 

known from Sidamo D. macrocarpa 

- Tepals up to 11 mm long; pedicels usually shorter than 30 mm 4 

4. Inflorescence lax, up to 15 flowers per 10 cm; flowers pinkish-green 

3. D. indica 

- Inflorescence dense, more than 25 flowers per 10 cm; flowers whitish with 

coloured tepal keels 5 

5. Inflorescence more than 20 cm long 4. D. altissima 

- Inflorescence up to 10 cm long, in Ethiopia only known from Shewa 

D. brachystachys 

1. Drimia exigua Stedje 

The species epithet ‘exigua’ means weak or feeble, 

referring to the small and slender habit of the plants. 

Stedje described it in 1984, based on material from 

Shewa. It is recognised within the genus on its minute 

flowers, tepals 4–5 mm long only. 

Plants small and slender. Leaves linear, hyster anthous, red spotted 

towards the base, c. 25 × 0.8 cm long. Raceme up to 15 cm long 

with about 30 flowers. Bracts up to 3 mm long with spurs up to 5 

mm long. Pedicels up to 5 mm long. Tepals 4–5 mm long, united 

for about 1 mm, light greenishbrown with a purplishbrown keel. 

Filament filiform, white, anthers light yellow. Capsule subglobose, 

up to 11 × 10 mm. Seeds black, winged, up to 6 mm long.



distribution 

Drimia simensis 

Description 

Fig. 94. Drimia 

simensis, 

cultivated 

plant originally 

from Semien 

Mountains, 


region. 

The species is found in recently burnt open woodland 

from 1400 to 1600 m, and has so far only been collected 

in the Kefa and Shewa floristic regions. It is a narrow 

endemic, not known from elsewhere. The species was 

described on material flowering in a greenhouse, and the 

general flowering period in the field is so far not known. 

2. Drimia simensis (Hochstetter) Stedje 

The species epithet ‘simensis’ refers to the Semien 

Mountains in Ethiopia. It was described by Hochstetter 

in 1851 in the genus Urginea, later transferred to Drimia 

by Stedje in 1995. It differs from the other species in the 

genus by its very dense inflorescence. 

Plants robust, up to 50 cm. Leaves lanceolate, about 33 × 3.5 cm. 

Raceme dense and short, up to 8 cm long. Pedicels 5–8 mm long. 

Tepals lanceolate 10 × 3 mm. Fruit and seeds not known.


distribution 

Drimia indica 

Description 


distribution 

Drimia altissima 

Description 

LEDEBOURIA DRIMIA 199 

The plants grow in disturbed mountain grassland from 

about 2900 to 3300 m, being a narrow endemic, only 

known from Gonder and Shewa floristic regions. The 

flowering period is March to April. 

3. Drimia indica (Roxburgh) Jessop 

The species epithet refers to India, from where the 

species was described by Rox burgh as early as in 1824, 

in the genus Scilla. It was thereafter placed in Urginea 

for more than hundred years, until Jessop referred the 

species to Drimia in 1977. It is recognised by its very lax 

inflorescence and the pinkish-greenish flowers. 

Plants up to 50 cm. Leaves appearing after the flowering, 30 × 

0.4–1.8 cm. Inflorescence a lax raceme with 5-25 flowers. Bracts 

up to 2 mm long with spurs of the same length. Pedicels up to 4.5 

mm long, patent or ascending. Tepals united from the base up to 1.5 

mm, pinkish to greenish, 10–11 mm long. Filaments united with the 

tepals at the base, free part 5–6 mm long. Capsule 16–18 mm long, 

and seeds c. 9 mm long. 

The species has been collected in bush land or open land 

on thin sandy soils over rocks, from 1350 to 2280 m, 

only been recorded from the Shewa and Sidamo floristic 

regions, otherwise it is widely distributed in Tropical and 

South Africa and it reaches India in the east. In Ethiopia 

flowering specimens have been collected in June and in 

November, apparently just before the rains start. 

4. Drimia altissima (L.f.) Ker-Gawler 

The species epithet refers to the size of the plant (alt = 

tall, ‘altissima’ = very tall). The inflorescence may in fact 

reach 180 cm. It was described by the son of Lin naeus 

in the genus Ornithogalum already in 1781, based on 

material from South Africa (Cape), and was transferred 

to the genus Drimia by KerGawler in 1808. It differs 

from the other species in the genus by its height and 

robustness. 

Plants usually tall and robust, up to 180 cm. Large bulbs, about 10 

cm across, often green and visible above-ground. The flowering 

stalk appears before the leaves (hysteranthous). Leaves lanceolate, 

up to 40 × 4 cm. Inflorescence a ± dense raceme, up to 60 cm long


Fig. 95. Drimia 

altissima, from 


region. 


distribution 

and with up to 500 flowers. Bracts c. 5 mm long, with spurs c. 2 mm. 

Pedicels 13–40 mm long, patent. Tepals free or united up to 2 mm, 

5–10 mm long, white or greenish white with a green or purplish 

band on the outside. Filaments flattened, slightly triangular, free 

part 4–7 mm long. Capsule subglobose, sometimes emarginate (that 

is with sunken apex), 10–14 × 9–15 mm. Seeds flat, 5–9 mm long. 

This species is found in more or less wood ed grassland 

or bushland, often over grazed or recently burnt, on 

black loamy soils, from 800 to 2600 m. It is found all 

over Ethiopia except in the extreme lowland of Afar. It 

is also widespread in tropical and southern Africa west 

to Senegal and south to the Cape in South Africa. The 

main flowering period in Ethiopia is from November to 

March. 

6. ALBUCA L. 

This genus differs from the other genera in the family 

by its yellow flowers with greenish keels, where the 

inner tepals close the flower, hiding stamens and ovary. 

Further, the filaments have expanded bases clasping the 

ovary. The ovary is ridged, and space is created between 

the clasping filaments and the ovary wall, thus creating 

containers that are filled with nectar from the nectaries in


Albuca abyssinica 

Description 


distribution 

DRIMIA ALBUCA 201 

the ovary walls (septal glands). 

The leaves, linear to lanceolate, are produced 

simultaneously with the flowers. The erect scape carries 

a relatively lax racemose inflorescence. In contrast to 

Drimia, the bracts do not carry spurs. The capsule is 

ovoid and contains several flattened seeds. 

The genus is widely distributed in Africa south of the 

Sahara (extending to Arabia), including about 30 species. 

Only two species are recognised in Ethiopia. 

1. Plants ± robust; leaves more than 5 mm wide 1. A. abyssinica 

- Plants small and slender, leaves filiform, 1 mm wide 2. A. tenuis 

1. Albuca abyssinica Jacquin 

The species epithet refers to Abyssinia, the former name 

of Ethiopia. Jacquin described the species as early as in 

1783. It is uncertain from where the material he used 

was obtained. It is a very variable species complex, 

distinguished from A. tenuis by robustness and leaf 

width. 

Plants 20–150 cm tall. Bulbs 2–8 cm in diameter, with or without 

fibrous remnants of old leaves. Leaves lanceolate, 20–100 × 0.5–5 

cm, glabrous or ciliate (rarely pubescent). Pedicels 2–20 mm long. 

Tepals 8–35 mm long. Style 1.5–3 times as long as the ovary. 

Capsule 1–2 cm long, seeds flat, 3–7 mm across. 

The species is found in grassland, bush land or woodland, 

on red or brown loamy soils from 700 to 3240 m. It is 

found in most floristic regions in Ethiopia, except the 

eastern ones. It is otherwise widely distributed in Africa 

south of the Sahara, extending to Arabia. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to May, in the 

southern parts with a second period from September to 

November. 

The species is very variable and several species have 

been described in Ethiopia. Here they are all ‘lumped’ 

to Albuca abyssinica. One species, A. blepharophylla 

Cufod. with pubescent leaves, was described from 

Sidamo floristic region. It can easily be crossed with A.


Fig. 96. Albuca abyssinica, from between Mega and Megado, Sidamo floristic 

region. 

Albuca tenuis 

Description 

abyssinica, and sometimes glabrous and pubescent forms 

are found in the same population. Albuca chaetopoda 

Chiov. was described from Somalia, characterised by 

fibrous remains from old leaves surrounding the basal 

leaves. This trait is not clearly correlated with other traits, 

and it is here not regarded as important enough to justify 

specific rank. More studies in the field are needed to sort 

out and understand the variation in this very variable 

species. Possibly subspecies might be justified. 

2. Albuca tenuis Knudtzon 

The species epithet ‘tenuis’ refers to the relatively tiny 

size of this plant. It was described based on Kenyan 

material by Knudt zon in 1986. Compared to the former 

species, it is recognised by the filiform and often spirally 

twisted leaves. 

Small plants up to 15 cm. Bulbs c. 2 cm in diameter, with or without 

fibrous remnants of old leaves. Leaves filiform, often spirally 

twisted, 10 × 0.1cm. Pedicels 2 mm long. Tepals 10–11 mm long. 

Style about as long as the ovary. Capsules and seeds not known.


distribution 


Ornithogalum 

gracillimum 

ALBUCA ORNITHOGALUM 203 

The species has been found in disturbed and eroded 

Acacia bushland or woodland between 1450 and 1900 

m, recorded from the Shewa and Bale floristic regions. It 

is otherwise known from Kenya. In Ethiopia it has been 

collected flowering in October. 

7. ORNITHOGALUM L. 

This genus is probably closest related to Albuca, differing 

in simpler flowers, being open, and lacking the specialised 

stamens of the latter. 

The leaves are produced ± simultaneously with the 

flowers. The leaves are linear to lanceolate. The erect 

scape carries a lax to dense inflorescence. The pedicels 

are erect to patent at anthesis. The bracts do not carry a 

spur. The tepals are white, most often with greenish keels, 

patent, not connivent as in Albuca. The filaments are free 

and flattened, never clasping the ovary. The capsules are 

subglobose with irregularly flattened seeds. 

The genus is widely distributed in Africa, southern 

Europe, and western Asia and includes about 200 species, 

of which 3 are represented in Ethiopia. 

1. Plants small, up to 15 cm tall; leaves filiform; flowers 2–10 in the 

inflorescence 1. O. gracillimum 

- Plants more than 20 cm tall; leaves narrowly lanceolate; flowers more 

than 30 in the inflorescence 2 

2. Tepals 1.5–1.7 cm long with 3–5 distinct green veins; ovary on a short 

wide stalk; pedicels 2.5–5 cm 2. O. donaldsonii 

- Tepals 0.6–0.9 cm long with several veins; ovary sessile; pedicels shorter 

than 1.2 cm 3. O. tenuifolium 

1. Ornithogalum gracillimum R.E.Friis 

The species epithet ‘gracillimum’ refers to the small and 

slender habit of these gracile plants. It was described in 

1927 from plants collected on Mt. Kenya by the Swedish 

botanist Robert E. Friis. It is easily recognised from the 

two other Ornithogalum species by its small size, its


Description 


distribution 

Ornithogalum 

donaldsonii 

Description 


distribution 

Ornithogalum 

tenuifolium 

filiform leaves and its few-flowered inflorescence. 

Small plants up to 15 cm tall. Bulb up to 2 cm in diameter. Leaves 

filiform, up to 12 cm long. Scape up to 8 cm. Inflorescence with 

2–10 white flowers. Pedicels 5–20 mm. Tepals c. 4 mm long, with 

few scattered veins. Filaments triangular. Ovary on a short delicate 

stalk, 0.3 mm long. Capsule 3–4 mm long, with seeds 1.2–2 mm 

across. 

The plants grow on shallow soils on granite outcrops 

around 1450 m, only recorded in the Sidamo floristic 

region. It is otherwise found in Kenya and Uganda. In 

Ethiopia it flowers in April. 

2. Ornithogalum donaldsonii (Rendle) Greenway 

The species epithet refers to the collector, Donaldson 

Smith, who collected the plant in Harerge. It was 

described in the genus Albuca by Rendle in 1896 and 

later transferred to Ornithogalum by Greenway in 1969. 

It is easily recognised by its long pedicels (longer than 

2.5 cm) and large flowers (tepals longer than 15 mm). 

Robust plants, 20–50 cm tall. Bulb up to 6 cm in diameter. Leaves 

lanceolate c. 40 × 3.5 cm. Inflorescence with 50–150 flowers. 

Pedicels 2.5–3.5 cm long. Bracts lanceolate, up to 3.5 cm. Tepals 

15–17 mm long, with 3 or 5 distinct green veins. Filaments flattened, 

triangular, c. 10 mm long. Ovary on a short wide stalk. Capsule c. 15 

mm long. Seeds c. 8 mm in diameter. 

The species is found in woodland, bush land or wooded 

grassland from 850 to 1520 m, recorded from the Sidamo, 

Bale and Harerge floristic regions. It is otherwise found 

in Somalia, Kenya and Tanzania. The flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from May to April, in the south also from 

October to November. 

3. Ornithogalum tenuifolium Delaroche 

The species epithet means with narrow leaves, in reality 

not very characteristic of the species. It was described 

in 1811 without known origin. It is robust like O. 

donaldsonii, but differs by the shorter pedicels and the 

smaller flowers.

Description 


distribution 

ALBUCA ORNITHOGALUM 205 

Plants from slender to robust, up to 150 cm. Scape 35110 cm. 

Leaves lanceolate up to 70 × 3 cm. Inflorescence with 30-150 

flowers. Pedicels 2-11 mm. Bracts 6-22 mm long. Tepals 6-9 mm 

long, with several veins assembled in a green midrib. Filaments 46 

mm long, ovate with or without a tooth on each side. Ovary sessile. 

Capsule c. 9 mm long. Seeds c. 5 mm across. 

The species grows in woodland on black soils, sometimes 

in heavily grazed areas between 1150 and 2300 m. It has 

been collected in the GamoGofa, Sidamo, Bale, and 

Harerge floristic regions, and otherwise in large parts 

of Africa south of the Sahara. The flowering period in 

Ethiopia is April to May and September to November.

206 ALOACEAE 



Reproduction 

Use and 

chemistry 

ALLIACEAE 

The family includes herbs with bulbs, bulblike corms, or 

rhizomes. The underground parts usually produce a smell 

of garlic or onion when squashed. Leaves are produced 

in a basal rosette, or they are 2-ranked. The inflorescence 

is an umbellate or a globose head, subtended by 1–2 

membranous bracts. The flowers are commonly regular, 

the perianth varying from white to pink, blue, violet or 

purple, sometimes yellow. The 6 tepals are more or less 

equal. The stamens are attached to the base of the tepals. 

The filaments are flattened. The ovary is superior with 

nectar producing groves in the walls. The fruit is a capsule 

with few to many seeds, often somewhat triangular in 

cross section. 

The family Alliaceae is mainly distributed in the temperate 

regions, both in the southern and northern hemispheres. 

Only a few species reach the tropics. It is represented by 

c.13 genera and 700 species worldwide. In the Flora area, 

it is represented by two genera: Allium and Agapanthus. 

The genus Agapanthus, represented by A. praecox, is 

only known in cultivation in Ethiopia and Eritrea, and is 

not further treated here. The genus Allium is represented 

by indigenous and cultivated taxa. 

A large number of species with bulbs have vegetative 

propagation. Often some of the flowers are substituted by 

bulbils that function as vegetative dispersal units. 

One of the characteristic features of the family is the 

absence of alkaloids which are found in related families as 

Amaryllidaceae. Members of the genus Allium are known 

to contain sulphurcompounds which contribute to their 

particular smell and taste. They also include flavones and 

flavonols. In fact, Allium species can be separated into 

three groups based on these compounds: those that have 

only flavones, those with only flavonols and those with 

both. Species of the genus have been in cultivation since 

the first periods of agriculture in the Old World. Onions, 

garlic, leek, and chives belong in the genus.


ALLIUM L. 

ALLIUM 207 

The genus includes bulbous herbs, easily recognized 

by the characteristic smell of garlic or onion when cut 

or crushed. The underground parts are single bulbs or 

a cluster of slender bulblets. The leaves are tubular and 

hollow, linear or flattened. The inflorescence is an umbel, 

supported by 1–2 bracts, on a leafless stalk. The flowers 

are often subtended by linear bracteoles. The tepals are 13 

veined, free or joined at the base. The stamens are placed 

in two whorls of three. The seeds are black, compressed, 

threeangled to almost globose, not winged. 

Between 500 and 600 species are recognized globally 

with the main center of diversity in the Mediterranean 

region. Five species are represented in the Flora area, 

only two (A. alibile and A. subhirsutum) are indigenous 

and are presented below. 

1. Leaves cylindrical, hollow; spathe persistent; inner filaments with a 

small basal tooth at each side 2 

- Leaves flattened, keeled, not hollow; spathe persistent; inner filaments, 

when present with 3 or more lateral projections or teeth 3 

2. Leaves and inflorescence stalk slender, less than 4 mm in diameter, base not 

widened; flowers lilac; bulbs densely clustered along rhizomes 

A. schoenoprasum (chives) 

- Leaves and inflorescence stalk more than 4 mm wide; stalk widening at the 

base; flowers white; bulb solitary or clustered, rhizome absent 

A. cepa (onions) 

3. Bulb made of several more or less equal bulblets or single and virtually 

indistinguishable from the base of the scape; plants cultivated 4 

- Bulb single and prominent, with or without small, spherical bulblets; 

plants not cultivated 5 

4. Bulb well developed, spherical or ovoid, with several to many angular bulblets 

held in a common covering; leaves less than 2.5 cm wide; flowers often poorly 

developed and replaced by bulbils A. sativum (garlic) 

- Bulb almost indinstingushable from base of stalk except for being lighter 

coloured; bulblets if present, small and spherical; leaves over 2.5 cm broad; 

umbels with well developed flowers A. porum (leek)

208 ALLIACEAE 

5. Umbel without bracteoles; anthers shorter than the perianth; leaves hairy 

at least along the margins 1. A. subhirsutum 

- Umbel with a ring of scarious bracteoles; anthers longer than the perianth; 

leaves smooth 2. A. alibile 

Allium subhirsutum 

Description 


distribution 

1. Allium subhirsutum Linnaeus 

The specific epithet ‘subhirsutum’ refers to the hairy 

nature of the plants. It was described by Linnaeus in 1753 

from a plant deposited in the Linnean herbarium. 

The species is distinguished from the next species by 

its umbel without brac te oles and the leaves hairy at least 

along the mar gins. The herb smells mildly of garlic when 

crushed. Only one of the subspeci es is represented in the 

Flora area. 

subsp. spathaceum (Steud. ex . A. Rich). Dufjes 

The subspecific epithet ‘spathaceum’ refers to the conspicuous 

spathes (bracts surrounding the in flo rescence). 

The name of the subspecies was proposed by Steud ner 

and properly described as A. spatha ceum by A. Richard 

in 1851 from a plant collected in Demerki in Semien, 

Gonder floristic region. The taxon was later reduced to a 

subspecies by Dufjes in 1976. 

Bulb globose to ovoid. Leaves 1–3, linear, flat or slightly keeled, 

8–50 × 0.2–2 cm, hairy along the margins; sheaths 1.5–14 cm, 

mostly below ground, glabrous or hairy particularly at the top. 

Inflorescence stem solitary, rarely 2–3, solid, uniform in thickness. 

Inflorescence an umbel or sphae rical cluster, 2–7 cm in diameter, 

few to many flowered. Pedicels 10–40 cm long. Perianth segments 

white, elliptic or oblong, 5–9 mm long. Capsule subglobose, 3–6 

mm in diameter. Seeds black. 

It grows in grassy meadows between 1750 and 3500 m 

in Gonder and Harerge floristicregions in Ethiopia, and 

in Eritrea. It also occurs in northern Sudan and northern 

Somalia. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is in 

August to October.

2. Allium alibile Steud. ex A. Rich. 

ALLIUM 209 

Fig. 97. Allium subhirsutum, from Semien Mountains, Gonder floristic region. 

Allium alibile 

Description 


distribution 

The specific epithet ‘alibile’ refers to the nutritious 

(alibilis) bulb. The species is distinguished from the 

former species by its umbel with the ring of bracteoles 

and the smooth leaves. 

Herb with a strong smell of garlic when crushed. Bulb small, cormlike 

globose to oblong. Leaves 2–5, flat or with mid-rib and keel in 

the lower parts, smooth along the margins. Inflorescence a dense 

spherical umbel, few to many flowered. Pedicels unequal, the ones 

at the center twice as long as the outer ones. Perianth segments 

white, flushed pale purple, with dark green mid-veins, elliptic to 

elliptic obovate, 3.5–5 mm long. Capsule enclosed by the persistent 

calyx. 

It grows in open dry Acacia woodland on light gypsum 

soil with a rich herb flora, and also in montane grassland 

at about an altitude of 1600 m in Tigray and Shewa 

floristic regions. It also possibly occurs in the Sudan. The 

main flowering period in Ethiopia is in September.

210 ALLIACEAE 



Reproduction 


use 

COLCHICACEAE 

The family includes erect or twining perennial herbs 

with underground corms (which sometimes becomes 

rhizomatous). The leaves are basally concentrated 

or scattered along the stem with leafblade linear to 

lanceolate or ovate, sessile or sheathing basally, parallel 

veined often with a distinct midrib, sometimes ending in 

a tendril. The inflorescence is axillary, racemose, cymose 

or rarely a solitary flower with or without bracts. The 

flowers are showy with 6 equal or sometimes unequal 

tepals that are free from each other or fused at the base 

for some length. The colour of the perianth varying from 

white to purple, red or yellow or brown, more often 

twocoloured. The 6 stamens are free or attached to the 

petals with rounded or flattened filaments. The ovary is 

superior with 3locules and the fruits are capsules, most 

often opening along the walls dividing the ovary into 

three rooms (septicidal), more rarely opening between 

the separating walls (loculicidal) as in Iphigenia. 

The family Colchicaceae is distributed both in the 

temperate and tropical regions of the Old World (Africa, 

Asia and Australia) with extension to the New World 

(Europe & North America). The highest concentration 

of the species is in the temperate zones of South Africa. 

Globally it is represented by 19 genera and 225 species, 

of which, 5 genera and 7 indigenous species are known 

to occur in Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

The flowers show a clear adaptation to insect pollination. 

The presence of nectar, which in this family is produced 

in nectaries at the basis of the petals, attract insects. Also 

the often conspicuous colour patterns are evidences for 

this phenomenon. 

Colchicinelike alkaloids are common in many members 

of the family. These alkaloids are extremely poisonous 

and cause severe damage to livestock. They also have 

wide applications in medicine, pharmacological and

Conservation 


GLORIOSA 211 

biological laboratories. Colchicine, commonly found in 

Gloriosa and Merendera, has been used in the treatment 

of gout being effective against severe attacks. But its use 

has been restricted due to its high toxicity. Colchicine 

disturbs the cell division, and this property has been used 

in plant breeding. Since it interferes with mitosis, it results 

in the multiplication of chromosomes in the nucleus 

without the process of cell division. As the cell division 

could start with the withdrawal of colchicine treatment, 

the process allows a new generation of polyploids and 

possible varieties of a plant. Gloriosa and Colchicum are 

used in horticulture. 

Among the indigenous species, there is one endemic 

species, Iphigenia pauciflora, known only from Tigray, 

Shewa, Bale and Sidamo floristic regions in Ethiopia 

and in Eritrea; some near endemics, e.g. Gloriosa 

baudii known from the Gamo Gofa and Sidamo floristic 

regions and adjacent areas in Somalia and northern 

Kenya, Littonia revoilii known from NE parts of 

Ethiopia and adajacent areas in Somalia, Djibouti, and 

Yemen. Merendera schimperiana is widely distributed in 

Ethiopia, and in adajacent areas in Somalia and southern 

Arabia. The only threat to these species is severe habitat 

degradation, and adequate care is required in the area of 

their occurrence. 

1. Leaves scattered along the stem, alternate on usually scandent, annual stems; 

flower solitary; leaf-apex ending in tendrils 2 

- Leaves basal, rosulate or distichous, on annual or perennial stems; 

flowers variously arranged; leaf- apex not ending in tendrils 3 

2. Perianth segments recurved; style at right angles to ovary; flowers usually bent 

1. Gloriosa 

- Perianth segments not recurved; style straight; flowers ± erect 2. Littonia 

3. Flowers in a capitulum overtopped by exterior petaloid bracts 

3. Androcymbium 

- Flowers not in a capitulum overtopped by exterior petaloid bracts 4 

4. Flowers solitary or two together, rarely three from a rosette of leaves; perianth 

with a claw; stamens attached to the perianth segments; pedicels absent 

4. Merendera

212 COLCHICACEAE 

- Flowers solitary or 3–10 in a lax scorpioid arrangement on the stem; perianth 

without a claw; stamens not attached to the perianth segments; pedicels 

present 5. Iphigenia 


1. GLORIOSA L. 

The genus includes climbing geophytes with rhizomelike 

corms and scandent stems. The leaves are scattered along 

the stem, sessile, alternate or whorled, simple, ovate, 

attenuated into a terminally recurved tendril. The flowers 

are axillary on long pedicels. The perianth segments are 

free, equal, narrowly ovateacuminate, entire or crispid, 

re flexed, yellow or red. The stamens have firm, spreading 

filaments. The style is filiform, bent sharply outwards at 

its base, with 3 short stigmatic branches. 

The genus is easily recognised from the other members 

of the family, mainly by its scandent habit, conspicuous 

and attractive mixture of yellow, orange, and red flowers 

and leaves ending in tendrils. It is closely related to 

Littonia, from which it is easily distinguished by the 

sharply bending style in contrast to the straight style in 

Littonia. 

The genus consists of two species, both of which 

occur in Ethiopia. Many tend to merge these two species 

into one as G. superba, but we believe the two species 

are distinct. 

1. Climbing herb; leaf-blade 1.3–6 cm wide; stamens with filaments 2.2–3 cm 

long; style with deeply divided stigma, 4–12 mm long 1. G. superba 

- Erect herb; leaf-blade 0.2–0.8 cm wide; stamens with filaments 1.2–2.3 cm 

long; style with shallowly divided stigma, 1.5–2(–3) mm long 2. G. baudii 

Gloriosa superba 

1. Gloriosa superba L. 

The specific epithet ‘superba’ refers to the beautiful 

(superb) flowers. It was described by Linnaeus in 1753 

from a plant collected from Malabaria, India by Hermann. 

It was also commonly known by the name G. 

simplex L.

GLORIOSA 213 

Fig. 98. Gloriosa superba, from near Aleta Wendo, Sidamo floristic region. 

Description 


distribution 

The species is distinguished from the next species 

by its climbing habit, wider leafblade (1.3–6 cm) and 

deeply divided stigma. 

It is also famous in horticultural circles with its various 

forms and colours and commonly known by the common 

English names: Glory lily, Flame lily and Climbing lily. 

A variable climbing herb up to 3 m high. Leaves along the stem 

sessile, opposite, subopposite or whorled or alternate; leafblade 

elliptic, lanceolate to ovate, 7.5–16 × 1.3–6 cm, glabrous, coiled 

at the apex with tendrils. Flowers solitary at the axils of leaves; 

pedicels 4.5–16.5 cm long, cernuous (bending) at the tip. Perianth 

segments broadly elliptic to obovate, 3.5–8 × 1–3 cm, acute at the 

apex, narrowing to the base, entire to crisped at the margin; variable 

in colour, bright-red, orange or yellow. Stamens with filaments 2.2– 

3 cm long; anthers linear, 0.8–1.5 cm long. Ovary cylindricalovoid, 

0.8–1.5 cm long; style 2.5–3.8 cm long including 3 stigma branches, 

0.4–1.2 cm long. Capsule 4–5 cm long. 

This species grows in Acacia-Commi phora and Combretum-Terminalia 

woodland, in open places in forest, 

in thickets on road sides and ditches between 500 and 

2000 m, and it is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It 

is also common in tropical Afri ca, southern Africa and 

Madagascar. It also occurs in tropical Asia. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from May to August.


Gloriosa baudii 

Fig. 99. Gloriosa 

baudii, from 

northern Kenya. 

2. Gloriosa baudii (Terr.) Chiov. 

The specific epithet ‘baudii’ is given in honour of one 

of the collectors, Baudi, from whose collection the type 

was designated. The species was described by Ter racciano 

in 1892 as Littonia baudii with the type material 

collected from Gerar Ama den in the Harerge floristic 

region by Baudi and Candeo. It was transferred to the 

genus Gloriosa by Chiovenda in 1916. It was also known 

by the name G. minor, described by Rendle from a plant 

collected from west of Shebelle River in Bale floristic 

region by DonaldsonSmith. 

The species is distinguished from the former species 

by its erect habit, narrower leaf blade (0.2–1.2 cm) and 

deeply divided stigma. In the Flora of Somalia (Thulin 

1995) it is regarded as an ecotype of G. superba adapted 

to arid habitats.

Description 


distribution 

GLORIOSA LITTONIA 215 

Erect herb 20–50 cm high. Corm obovate, 4.5 × 1.0 cm; tunics 

brownish. Leaves along the stem, sessile, subopposite to alternate; 

leafblade linearelliptic, 5–11 × 0.2–0.8 cm, glabrous to pubescent, 

apex attenuate or with tendrils. Flowers solitary; pedicel 3.5–9 cm 

long. Perianth brightred or yellow and red, sometimes fused for 

4–5 mm at the base; leafblade oblanceolate, 2.5–5.5 cm × 4–8 

mm. Stamens with filaments 12–23 mm long, anthers 3–7 mm long. 

Pistil with style 14–25 mm long with 3branched stigma, 1.5–2(–3) 

mm long. Young fruit 15 mm long. 

It grows on stony ground and open bush on red sandy soil 

between 230–900 m in Harerge and Gamo Gofa floristic 

regions. The species is thus only known in adjacent areas 

in southern and south eastern Ethiopia, western Somalia 

and northern Kenya, an area which could be referred to 

as the EthioSomaliaKenya triangle and which harbour 

a number of endemics. The main flowering periods in 

Ethiopia is from October to November, also from March 

to May. 

2. LITTONIA Hook. 

The genus includes climbing geophytes with a small 

tuber bearing short spreading lobes. The stems are 

usually simple, scandent or erect. The leaves are cauline, 

verticillate below, alternate above, linear to ovate, 

attenuated into a ponted apex or recurved tendril. The 

flowers are axillary in a cymose inflorescence on the 

upper part of the stem, on long pedicels. The perianth 

segments are equal, persistent, ascending and slightly 

saccate at the base. The stamens are short and filiform. 

The style is also short with 3falcate stigmatic branches. 

It is closely related to, or may possibly be congeneric 

with, the genus Gloriosa, in general habit and in having 

leaves ending in tendrils. However, in Gloriosa the style 

is sharply bent, while it is straight in Littonia. 

The genus consists of c. 8 species, occurring mainly 

in Africa and extending to Arabia. Of these, only one 

species is known to occur in Ethiopia.


Fig. 100. Littonia 

revoilii, from 

Somalia. 

Littonia revoilii 

Description 


distribution 

Littonia revoilii Franch. 

The specific epithet ‘revoilii’ was given in honour of one 

of the collectors, Revoil from whose collection the type 

was designated. The species was described by Fran chet in 

1882, with the type material collected from Barroz valley 

in Somalia. It was also known by the names Littonia hardeggeri 

described by Beck in 1888 from Harerge and 

Littonia minor described by Deflers from Arabia. 

Erect or scandent geophyte, 15–35 cm high. Corm ovoid to globose, 

c. 1.7 × 1.5 cm. Leafblade linear to elliptic, 4.5–8.5 (10) cm × 4.5 

mm; lower ones whorled, upper ones alternate or opposite, sessile, 

attenuated into a recurved tendril at the apex. Flowers solitary; 

pedicel 2–5 cm long. Perianth segments elliptic, narrowing from the 

middle towards the base, reddish-yellow, cream flushed with brown 

or yellow; 1.2–2.5 cm × 2–5 mm. Stamens with filaments 8–10 

mm long; anthers 3–4 mm long. Ovary with style 6–8 mm long 

and 3branched stigma c. 5 mm long. Fruit 3locular, 15–17 mm 

long, many seeded. Seeds ± globose, fleshy when fresh, obovate, 

3 × 3 mm. 

The ecology of the species is poorly known in Ethiopia. 

It grows on sandy and stony ground in Somalia. It is only 

known from eastern part of Harerge floristic region and 

adjacent areas in Somalia, Djibouti, and Arabia. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from October to January, 

also from April to May.

Androcymbium 

striatum 

Description 

3. ANDROCYMBIUM Willd. 

LITTONIA ANDROCYMBIUM 217 

The genus includes stemless herbs or with short scapes. 

The corms are covered with hard dark tunics. The leaves 

are distichous, 2–many, linear to ovateacuminate, 

canaliculate with a broad sheathing base. The flowers 

are solitary or many in a terminal capitulum surrounded 

by often large, petaloid, colourful bracts, the whole 

resembling one flower. The perianth segments are 

free, ovate acuminate, margins involute, with a pair of 

nectaries. The ovary is 3locular, ovoid, deeply 3sulcate, 

each locule attenuated into a style ending in a minute 

stigma. 

The genus is one of the two (with Merendera) 

genera in the family that lack proper stems. Merendera 

schimperiana, the only member of the genus Merendera, 

has purple flowers. 

The genus contains 30 species, mostly in South Africa, 

and one in North Africa and the Mediterranean region. Of 

these, only the following species is known to occur in 


Some Androcymbium species are cultivated in rock 

gardens and in green houses. 

Androcymbium striatum Hochst. ex A. Rich. 

The specific epithet ‘striatum’ refers to the fine linear 

markings or channels (striae) that are seen on the 

involucral bracts. The species name was originally coined 

by Hoch stetter and formally described by A. Richard in 

1851, based on the type material collected from Semien 

mountains by Schim per. 

Geophyte, 15–30 cm high. Corm ovoid, 1–2.5 × 0.6–2 cm; tunics 

firm, dark brown. Scape erect, bearing 2–3 ascending, glabrous 

leaves; blade linear or lanceolate 4–20 cm × 1.5–12 mm. Flowers 

35 in a cluster; pedicels erect, 46 mm long, elongating to 10(–16) 

mm long in fruit; bracts ovatecuspidate or oblong, 1.5–6.5 × 0.4–1.6 

cm whitish with green veins. Perianth whitish, 7–9 mm long; blade 

of the segments 5–6 mm long and the claw c. 2 mm long. Stamens 

equal to the perianth or shortly exserted. Capsule ovoid, 911 mm 

long with the persistent style 3–5.5 mm long. Seeds reddishbrown, 

. 1.3–1.5 × 1.31.5 mm.



distribution 

Merendeera 

schimperiana 

The species grows in open grassland with scat tered 

Acacia abyssinica, Euclea scrub, degraded Juniperus- 

Olea remnants, open shallow soil, on bare gravely soil 

and in Acacia drepanolobium dominated grassland on 

black clay soil between 1500 and 2600 m in Tigray, 

Gonder, Shewa, Arsi, Bale, Sidamo and Harerge floristic 

regions in Ethi opia and in Eritrea. It also occurs in Kenya, 

Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe to South Africa. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to July. 

4. MERENDERA Ramond 

The genus includes geophytic herbs. The underground 

organ, the corm, is covered with tunics. The leaves are 

basal. The flowers are solitary or 2, rarely 3. The stamens 

are, inserted at the base of the perianth segments. The 

filaments are filiform and the anthers are versatile or 

basifixed. The ovary is 3-locular and the 3 styles are 

filiform, each with small and capitate stigmas. 

The genus is represented by 15 species in Africa, 

Europe, and western Asia, and by a single species in 


The genus has recently been included in Colchicum by 

Nordenstam (1998). However, in our opinion the shape of 

the perianth and the style characters are distinct enough 

to keep it separate from Colchicum. 

Merendera schimperiana Hochst. 

The specific epithet ‘schimperiana’ was given in honour 

of the famous German plant collector, Wilhem George 

Schimper who had collected plants in Ethiopia between 

1837–63, and from whose collection the type was 

designated. The species was described by Hochstetter in 

1842 with the type material collected between Enchet Kab 

and Schoata in the Gonder floristic region by Schimper. It 

was also known by the name M. abyssinica, described by 

A. Richard in 1851 from plants collected in the Tekezze 

Valley and Oudgerate in the Tigray floristic region. 

The species is mainly characterised among the other 

members in the family by its brilliant purple coloured 

perianth segments and yellow anthers.

Fig. 101. 

Merendera 

schimperiana, 

from Entoto, 


region. 

Description 


distribution 

ANDROCYMBIUM MERENDERA IPHIGENIA 219 

Geophytic herb with a small globose to ovoid corm 1.5–3.5 × 1.2–3 

cm; tunics rigid, brownblack, produced over its neck; underground 

neck 2–7 cm long, furnished with a cylindrical membranous 

sheathing leaf. Leaves 2–6, ascending or spreading; leafblade linear 

4.5–8.5 cm × 1.5–5 mm long. Flowers 1–2, rarely 3 subsessile in the 

centre of a rosette of leaves. Perianth purple, with a filiform claw, 

1.5–2.5 cm long and leafblade linear oblong 1.7–3.5 cm × 1.5–5 

mm. Stamens attached to the perianth segments; anthers yellow, 

linear, almost basifixed, 4–4.5 mm long; filaments 3.5–4 mm long. 

The species grows in open grazed grassland, grazed 

wasteland and open hillside in the montane and ericaceous 

belt between 2050 and 3880 m in Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, 

Welo, Shewa, Arsi, Harerge, Bale and Sidamo floristic 

regions. It also occurs in Somalia and southern Arabia. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from June to 

July; the onset of the rainy season in much of highland 


5. IPHIGENIA Kunth 

The genus includes slender geophytes. The underground 

corm is covered with dark thin tunics. The stems are 

erect or flexuose (flexible). The leaves are sessile, basally 

sheathing and the leaf-blades are linear to filiform. The 

flowers are solitary or 3–10, on a lax scorpioid stalk. The 

pedicels are erect or recurved. The perianth segments 

are free, deciduous and linear. The stamens have short 

filaments. The ovary is ovoid and the style very short 

with 3falcate stigmatic branches. The capsule is ovoid 

to cylindrical and opens by loculicidal dehiscence.



The genus is distinguished from other indigenous 

genera in the family by its erect stems, and by the 

yellowish, greenish yellow or brownish tepals. 

The genus is represented by 15 species distributed in 

mainland Africa, Madagascar, India, Australia, and New 

Zealand. Of these, two species are known to occur in 


1. Flowers erect 1. I. pauciflora 

- Flowers bending down 2. I. oliveri 

Iphigenia pauciflora 

Description 

Fig. 102. 

Iphigenia 

pauciflora, from 

Blue Nile gorge, 


region. 

1. Iphigenia pauciflora Mart. 

The specific epithet ‘pauciflora’ refers to the species 

having few (pauci-) flowers (-flora). The species was 

described by Mar telli in 1886 with the type material 

collected from Keren in Eritrea by Beccari. It was 

also known by the name I. abyssi nica, described by 

Chiovenda in 1911 from plants collected in Mai Aini, 

Tse lemti in the border area between Gonder and Tigray 


Herb 10–30 cm high. Corm subglobose to ovoid, 0.8–1.5 × 0.8– 

1.3 cm; tunics brown, muricate. Leaves linear, clasping the stem; 

leafblade 5.5–15 cm × 1–3 mm. Flowers solitary or 2 in the axils 

of leaves, erect. Pedicel 7–32 mm long. Tepals 6, darkbrown to 

yellowish to greenish or greenishyellow, 4–7 × 0.5–0.7 mm. 

Stamens with filaments 2.5–3.5 mm long; anther 0.5 mm long.


distribution 

Iphigenia oliveri 

Description 

Fig. 103. 

Iphigenia oliveri, 

from Sidamo 


ANDROCYMBIUM MERENDERA IPHIGENIA 221 

Ovary 2.5–3.5 mm long with reduced style and 3branched stigma. 

Capsule obovoid to oblong, 8–20 mm long. Seeds many, brown, 

each ovoid, c. 2 × 1.5 mm. 

The species grows in flat open area in Euclea-Dodonaea 

and in Acacia-Dichro stachys-Anogeissus scrub, in open 

bare land, eroded area of volcanic ash near gul leys 

with exposed subsoil, and in rocky outcrops in Acacia- 

Commiphora-Termi nalia woodland on limestone slopes 

with sandy soil, between 1250 and 2000 m in Tigray, 

Shewa, Bale, and Sidamo floristic regions in Ethiopia 

and in Eritrea. It is otherwise widespread in tropical 

Africa. The main flowering period is from April to May. 

2. Iphigenia oliveri Engl. 

The specific epithet ‘oliveri’ was given in honour of Daniel 

Oliver, British botanist, a Keeper of the Herbarium, 

RBG, Kew and editor of the Flora of Tropical Africa. 

The species was described by Engler in 1893 with 

the type material collected from Tavetta in Kenya by 

Johnston. 

Herb 20–30 cm high. Corm ovoid, 1.2–2 × 0.8–1.5 cm; tunic light 

to darkbrown, slightly muricate. Leaves linear, clasping the stem, 

alternate; leafblade 6.5–17 cm × 2–5 mm. Flowers solitary in 

the axils of many leaves, bending down. Pedicel 6–20 mm long. 

Perianth 6, brown to purple red, 3–12 cm × 0.5 mm. Stamens 6, 

filaments 1–1.5 mm long; anthers 0.5 mm long. Ovary with very



distribution 

short style c. 0.2 mm long and 3branched stigma. Capsule obovoid 

to oblong, 7–17 mm long. Seeds many, brown, each ± globose, 2–3 

× 2–3 mm. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commipho ra-Terminalia 

bushland/woodland, on li me stone slopes with sandy soil 

between 850 and 1650 m in Harerge and Sidamo floristic 

regions. It also occurs in Somalia, Kenya, and northern 

Tanzania. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

April to May; also from October to December.



Economic 

importance 

IRIDACEAE 

ALOE 223 

The family includes perennial evergreen or seasonal 

herbs with rhizomes, bulbs or corms. The leaves are 

basal and also along the stem, often distichous and with 

one leaf clasping the base of the next; the blades are 

parallel-veined, plane or plicate. The flowering stems 

are aerial or subterranean, simple or branched, terete, 

angled or winged. The inflorescence is either composed 

of umbellate clusters (rhipidia) enclosed in opposite leafy 

to dry bracts (spathes) with flowers usually pedicellate 

(to more or less sessile), each subtended by one bract; 

or a spike of sessile flowers, each subtended by two 

opposed bracts; or occasionally the flowers are solitary. 

The flowers are regular or zygomorphic with a petaloid 

perianth of two equal or unequal whorls (rarely one 

whorl absent). The tepals are usually large and showy, 

free almost to the base or united in a tube. The 3 stamens 

are inserted at the base of the outer tepals, or in the tube 

with anthers that dehisce longitudinally. The ovary is 

inferior, 3locular with few to many ovules; the style is 

filiform and usually 3-branched or 3-lobed, sometimes 

simple. The fruit is usually a capsule with a loculicidal 

dehiscence, rarely indehiscent. The seeds are brownish, 

globose to angular or discoid, sometimes broadly winged, 

usually dry, rarely fleshy. 

The family is easily distinguished from other lilioid 

families by the presence of only three stamens and an 

inferior ovary. 

The family includes about 70 genera and 1750 species 

found more or less worldwide. The highest concentration 

of species is found in southern Africa. The family is 

represented by 8 indigenous genera and 28 species in 


Members of Iridaceae are of considerable economic 

importance in horticulture and the cut-flower industry, 

especially Iris, Gladiolus and Freesia. Several other 

genera (Dietes, Crocus, Watsonia) are cultivated in

224 IRIDACEAE 

Conservation 

Key to genera 

gardens in both tropical and temperate areas. Moraea 

and the southern African Homeria are poisonous, and 

cause significant losses in cattle- and sheep-raising 

areas, especially in southern Africa. Some genera are of 

importance in traditional medicine, especially Gladiolus. 

Corms of several species of Lapeirousia and Gladiolus 

are eaten locally. The corms of several genera were an 

important source of food for humans in prehistoric time. 

The most commonly found cultivated members of 

the family in Ethiopia in general, and Addis Ababa in 

particular, are Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora (Lemoine) 

N.E. Br. (syn. Montbretia crocosmiiflora Lemoine) which 

grows from a corm and has flattened ribbed leaves and 

spikes of bright orange flowers, and Iris that are probably 

derivatives of I. germanica L. and I. pallida Lam. The 

cultivated irises grow from rhizomes and have flattened, 

greygreen swordshaped leaves and white, blue, purple 

or even brown flowers. These are included in the key to 

the genera, but not discussed further in the text. 

Among the indigenous species there are a number of 

endemics, mainly in the genus Gladiolus: G. balensis, 

known only from near Ginir in Bale floristic region; G. 

negeliensis, near Negelle in Sidamo floristic region; G. 

mensensis, in a few localities in the highlands of Eritrea; 

G. calcicola, near Harer in Harerge floristic region; G. 

longispathaceus, in Sidamo and Gamo Gofa floristic 

regions; and G. lithicola, near Gara Mulleta in Harerge 

floristic region. Another endemic species in the family is 

Lapeirousia abyssinica, known in central and northern 

Ethiopia and in Eritrea. There is an urgent need to protect 

habitats which are home for these unique treasures. 

1. Stamens opposite and adpressed to style branches; style branches broad, 

flattened, petal-like with paired terminal crests; leaves bifacial and channelled 

or terete 2 

- Stamens alternate or opposite style branches, but never adpressed to them or 

style not significantly divided; style filiform and simple or terminating in short 

lobes or filiform branches; leaves unifacial and equitant, sometimes terete or 

almost so 3

ARISTEA 225 

2. Tepals united below to form a tube Iris 

- Tepals free 2. Moraea 

3. Tepals free to the base; flowers arranged in clusters of 2 or more in 

biseriate rhipidia, these stalked or sessile; perianth blue, short-lived, open 

in the morning, collapsing spirally and deliquescing in the early afternoon; 

rootstock a rhizome 1. Aristea 

- Tepals united in a perianth tube, and flowers either solitary per branch, or 

arranged in a spike; perianth variously coloured, lasting at least one full-day 

and fading slowly, not deliquescing; rootstock a corm 4 

4. Flowers solitary; leaves linear (nearly filiform), in section oval to round 

with 4-longitudinal grooves, and all inserted below ground; perianth tube 

shorter than tepals 6. Romulea 

- Flowers 2-many, arranged in a spike or panicle; leaves usually with an expanded 

plane blade, some at least inserted above ground level; perianth tube shorter 

or longer than tepals 5 

5. Styles dividing at mouth of perianth tube into three long spreading branches. 

5. Hesperantha 

- Styles usually well exserted from tube and either simple or dividing remotely 

from tube into 3 branches, these sometimes again divided 6 

6. Corms campanulate with a flat base; stems somewhat compressed to angled or 

winged; style branches usually deeply divided 3. Lapeirousia 

- Corms globose to depressed globose with a rounded base; stems round in 

section; style branches simple 7 

7. Outer and inner bracts coriaceous, green or dry; leaf midrib consisting of more 

than one pair of veins Crocosmia 

- Outer and inner bracts membranous to scarious, usually translucent to 

transparent with veins often dark coloured; leaf midrib consisting of a single 

pair of veins 8 

8. Flowers radially symmetric; perianth pendent and facing the ground; floral 

bracts scarious and translucent with brown streaking; perianth tube shorter 

than tepals 4. Dierama 

- Flowers bilaterally symmetric; perianth usually facing to the side; floral bracts 

green; perianth tube shorter or longer than tepals 9 

9. Style simple 7. Zygotritonia 

- Style dividing into 3-branches 8. Gladiolus

226 IRIDACEAE 


1. ARISTEA Ait. 

The genus is easily distinguished from the other genera in 

the family by the underground parts being an elongated 

rhizome, rather than a corm. 

The leaves are linear to lanceolate, distichous, 

crowded at the base of the plant. The stems are rounded to 

compressed in crosssection, sometimes winged, bearing 

reduced leaves or leafless. The inflorescences have one to 

many paired rhipidia (umbellate flower clusters) arranged 

in panicles or crowded in fascicles on short branches. 

The bracts are (within spathes) membranous or scarious. 

The flowers are usually sessile, radially symmetric, blue, 

each lasting one morning only, perianth twisting spirally 

on fading. The tepals are basally fused for up to 1 mm, 

subequal, spreading horizontally. The stamens are erect 

with oblong anthers. The style is filiform, dividing into 3 

short stigmatic lobes at the apex. The capsules are ovoidellipsoid 

to oblongcylindrical, or 3lobed. 

The genus is represented by about 50 species in sub 

Saharan Africa including Madagascar, with the highest 

diversity in southern Africa. Two species are known to 

occur in Ethiopia. 

1. Flowering stem flattened and 2-winged, leafless except for 1 short subapical 

leaf or leafy bract; flower clusters 1–2 (rarely 3 or 4) per stem 1. A. abyssinica 

- Flowering stem rounded to weakly compressed or 2-angled, bearing 2 or more 

leaves, these not subapical but mostly inserted below middle; flower clusters 

several (usually more than 3) 2. A. angolensis 

Aristea abyssinica 

1. Aristea abyssinica Pax 

The specific epithet ‘abyssinica’ refers to the former name 

of Ethiopia, Abyssinia. The species was described by Pax 

in 1892 from a plant collected in the border area between 

Tigray and Gonder floristic regions by Schimper. It was 

also known by the name A. alata Baker, which is now a 

synonym.

Description 


distribution 

Aristea angolensis 

Description 


distribution 

ARISTEA 227 

The species differs from the next species mainly by 

the flattened and winged, almost leafless flowering stem, 

and by usually having only 1–2 flowers. 

Plant 10–50 cm high. Leaves several, linear to narrowly lanceolate, 

2–5(–8) mm wide, usually about half as long as stem. Stem 

compressed and broadly winged, 2–4 mm wide, unbranched or 

with a short subapical and often axillary branch. Flower in 1–2(–3), 

terminal or subterminal clusters, nearly sessile (shortly stalked), 

4-flowered. Flowers blue, more or less sessile. Tepals obovate, 

10–12 × 6–7 mm. Style c. 5 mm long, apex trifid. Capsules ovoidoblong, 

7–9 mm long, more or less sessile or on short pedicels up 

to 4 mm long. 

The species grows in short grassland and in edges of 

forests in highlands, especially on thin, rocky soils, 

between 1500 and 2800 m in Tigray, Welo, Wellega, 

Shewa, Arsi, Sidamo, Kefa and Gamo Gofa floristic 

regions. It also occurs in Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, 

Cameroon, Zaire and south to the eastern Cape, S Africa. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from July to 

September. 

2. Aristea angolensis Bak. 

The specific epithet ‘angolensis’ refers to the country of 

origin where the orginal collection was made, Angola. 

The species was described by Baker in 1898 from a plant 

collected by Welwitsch. 

The species differs from the previous species mainly 

by the round flowering stem, bearing two or more leaves, 

and by usually having three or more flowers. 

Plant 25–100 cm high. Leaves several, linear to narrowly lanceolate, 

2.5–7(–9) mm wide, mostly basal and about half as long as stem. 

Stem 2–6 branched (rarely simple), compressed, 2angled but not 

winged. Flower clusters 4–14, terminal and axillary, 4–6-flowered; 

spathes ovate, 9–11 mm long. Flower blue, more or less sessile. 

Tepals obovate, c. 12 × 4–5 mm. Style 6–7 mm long, exceeding 

anthers, apex 3lobed. Capsules ovoidobovoid, 5–7 mm long, subsessile 

or on pedicels up to 4 mm long. 

The species grows in wellwatered to mar shy grassland, 

sometimes in seepage areas and seasonal marshes 

between 1800 and 2600 m in Shewa, Arsi and Sidamo 

floristic regions. It also occurs in Zambia, Zimbabwe, 

Malawi, South Africa, Angola, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria

228 IRIDACEAE 


and western Cameroon. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from August to October; but sometimes also 


2. MORAEA Miller 

The genus is easily recognized from the other indigenous 

genera by the Irislike petaloid style branches. 

The genus includes perennial herbs with apically 

rooting tunicate corms. The leaves are several or few, the 

lower cataphylls (reduced leaves) 2–3, entirely sheathing 

and membranous. The foliage leaves are usually bifacial 

and channelled, sometimes terete, inserted on the lower 

part of the stem. The cauline leaves are shorter or entirely 

sheathing and bractlike. The stem is simple or branched. 

The flowers are single or a few together in a rhipidium. 

The flowers are Iris-like, radially symmetric, usually 

pedicellate, usually blue or yellow with contrasting 

nectar guides on the outer tepals. The tepals are free 

(rarely united), the outer larger, narrowed downwards 

to a distinct claw; the inner are erect or spreading. The 

filaments are partly to completely united around the style 

and the anthers adpressed to the style branches. The style 

is filiform below, dividing into 3 flat, usually petaloid 

branches, these diverging and usually forked apically. 

The capsules are globose to cylindrical. 

The genus contains more than 120 species mainly 

in subSaharan Africa, with about 20 species in tropical 

Africa. Only two species are known to occur in Ethiopia. 

Several species, particularly in their early stages, are 

known to be toxic to livestock. 

1. Leaves terete (often dry and dead at flowering time); outer tepals 16–24 mm 

long; seed angular in capsules 8–11 mm long 1. M. stricta 

- Leaves bifacial and channelled (often emerging at flowering time); outer tepals 

40–65 mm long; seeds flattened and discoid in capsules 30–45 mm long 

2. M. schimperi

Moraea stricta 

Description 


distribution 

Moraea schimperi 

1. Moraea stricta Bak. 

ARISTEA MORAEA 229 

The specific epithet ‘stricta’ refers to the upright erect 

stem. The species was described by Baker in 1904 from 

a plant collected in Africa It was also known by the name 

M. tellinii, described by Chiovenda in 1911 from a plant 

collected in Gonder floristic region. 

The species is distinguished from the next species 

by the more or less sessile lateral branches, cylindrical 

leaves and small blue-violet flowers with outer tepals 


Perennial plants, 15–25 cm high. Corm 1–3 cm in diameter. Leaf 

solitary, usually absent during the flowering period, or the old one 

still attached to base of stem), the new emerging leaf will grow to 

about 60 cm long, ± terete and 1.5 mm thick. Stem erect, usually 

bearing 3–6 branches, that are held close to the main stem. Spathes 

dry and papery, rarely green near base, inner (2.5–)3–4 cm long. 

Flowers pale lilac to blueviolet with yel loworange spotted nectar 

guides on outer te pals; outer tepal 19–24 mm long, claw ascending, 

narrow; inner tepals linearlanceolate, erect or ascending, 15–18 

× 2–4 mm. Style branches 7–8 mm long, diverging about 1.5 mm 

above base. Capsules obovoid, (8–)9–11 mm long. 

The species grows in open stony grassland, between 

1500 and 1950 m in Arsi, Sidamo and Harerge floristic 

regions. It is also widespread in Africa, from Ethiopia to 

the eastern Cape, South Africa. The flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from October to November, also from January 

to March. 

2. Moraea schimperi (Hochst.) Pic. Serm. 

The specific epithet ‘schimperi’ was given in honour of 

the famous German collector, George Wilhem Schimper, 

from whose collection the type of the species was desig 

nated. The species was described by Hoch stetter in 

1844 as Hymenostigma schim peri from a plant collected 

from Mt. Bachit in Gonder floristic region. The name was 

later transferred to the genus Moraea by PichiSermolli 

in 1950. 

The species is clearly distinguished from M. stricta 

by the unbranched stem, channelled bifacial leaves and 

blue-purple flowers with outer tepals 40–65 mm long.

230 IRIDACEAE 

Fig. 104. Moraea 


Arsi floristic 

region. 

Description 


distribution 

Plant medium to large, 20–50 cm high, solitary or sometimes 

growing in clumps. Corm about 1.5–2 cm in diameter, with brown 

firm-textured tunics covered by cataphylls. Leaf solitary, linear, 

initially shorter than stem, 9–15 mm wide, channelled below, flat 

above, eventually much exceeding stem. Stem erect, unbranched. 

Spathes dry and often brown, attenuate, inner (6–)7–10(–12) cm 

long, outer 2–3 cm shorter than inner. Flowers bluepurple with 

yellow nectar gui des on outer tepals; outer tepals lanceolate, 

40–65 mm long, spreading to slightly reflexed; inner tepals erect, 

lanceolate, 3.5–4.5 cm long. Style bran ches 15–20 mm long, crests 

10–20 mm long. Capsules 25–35 mm long, cylindrical. 

The species grows in montane grassland and woodland 

between 1570 and 3250 m in Gonder, Shewa, Arsi, 

Wellega, Kefa, Sidamo, Bale, and Harerge floristic 

regions. It is also widespread in the Sudan, highlands of 

eastern tropical Africa, Angola, Came roon, and Nigeria. 

The flowering period in Ethiopia is from January to 

March. 

3. LAPEIROUSIA Pourret 

The genus is easily recognised from the other indigenous 

genera by the bell-shaped, flat-bottomed corms with 

dense and fibrous tunics. 

The genus includes perennial herbs. The lower leaves 

(cataphylls) are membranous and with sheathing base;


MORAEA LAPEROUSIA 231 

the foliage leaves are few, sometimes solitary, lowermost 

longest and inserted on the stem near the ground level. 

The cauline leaves are successively smaller. The stem is 

somewhat compressed and angular. The inflorescence 

is either paniclelike, or a simple to branched spike or 

the flowers are clustered at ground level. The flowers are 

blue, purple, red, white or pink, radially or bilaterally 

symmetric, tube short to long, tepals subequal or 

unequal. The style is filiform, usually forking for up to 

half its length, but sometimes entire or barely bifid. The 

capsules are membranous to coriaceous, and more or less 

globose. 

The genus contains c. 40 species, widespread across 

subSaharan Africa, from SW Cape to Nigeria and 

Ethiopia. Two species are known to occur in Ethiopia. 

1. Flowers blue-violet with darker nectar guides on lower tepals: perianth tube 

7–10 mm long 1. L. abyssinica 

- Flowers white and lacking nectar guides; perianth tube 70–160 mm long 

2. L. schimperi 

Lapeirousia 

abyssinica 

Description 

1. Lapeirousia abyssinica (R. Br. ex A. Rich.) 

Baker 

The specific epithet ‘abyssinica’ refers to the former 

name of Ethiopia, Abyssinia, where the original 

collection was made. The species was previously coined 

by Ro bert Brown and described later by A. Richard in 

1850 as Geissorhiza abyssinica from a plant collected 

from Maigigoi in the Tigray floristic region by Quartin- 

Dillon and Petit. The name was transferred to the genus 

Lapeirousia by Baker in 1878. 

The species is clearly distinguished from L. schimperi 

by the blue-violet flowers with a perianth tube that is c. 


Plant generally small, 9–15 cm high, sometimes to 35 cm, sparsely 

branched. Corm 8–12 mm in diameter. Cataphylls 2, inner pale and 

membranous, reaching shortly above ground, outer shor ter and 

darkbrown. Leaves 3, lower 2 at least usually inserted near ground

232 IRIDACEAE 

Fig. 105. 

Lapeirousia 


Welo floristic 

region. 


distribution 

Lapeirousia 

schimperi 

level, lowermost longest and about as long as, to slightly exceeding, 

the inflorescence, lanceolate, 3–5 mm wide. Stem compressed, 

2–3-angled, sometimes narrowly winged. Inflorescence a spike or 

few-branched pseudopanicle, main axis 5–7-flowered, secondary 

axes with fewer flowers. Flower bilaterally symmetric, violet, lower 

three tepals each with a white median line edged with a darker 

band of purple in the lower midline; perianth tube more or less 

straight, narrowly funnelshaped, 7–9 mm long. Tepals unequal, 

lanceolate, lower three horizontal to descending, held close together 

and forming a lip, c. 9 × up to 2 mm, upper three larger, dorsal 

more or less erect, upper laterals reflexed, c. 9 × up to 3 mm. Style 

dividing between middle and apex of anthers, branches c. 2 mm 

long. Capsules globosetri gonous, 3–4 mm long, showing outline 

of seeds. 

The species grows in rocky places, in shallow soils, 

often on limestone, between 1800 and 2600 m in Tigray, 

Welo, Gojam, and Shewa floristic regions in Ethiopia 

and in Eritrea. It is not known elsewhere, except possibly 

in the Sudan. The main flowering period is from July to 

August. 

2. Lapeirousia schimperi (Asch. & Klatt) Milne- 

Redhead 

The specific epithet ‘schimperi’ was given in honour of 

the famous German collector, George Wilhem Schimper 

from whose collection the type of the species was 

designated. The species was described by Asch erson and 

Klatt in 1866 as Tritonia schim peri from a plant collected 

in Tekeze in Ti gray floristic region. The name was later 

transferred to the genus Aristea by MilneRedhead in 

1934. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the previous 

species by the white flowers with a very long perianth 

tube, 70–160 mm long.

Fig. 106. 

Lapeirousia 


south of Wachile, 


region. 

Description 


distribution 

MORAEA LAPEROUSIA 233 

Plant (20–)30–80 cm high, usually with several branches. Corm 

18–22 mm in diameter at base, tunics composed of compacted 

fibres, light to dark brown, outer layers becoming loosely fibrous 

and reticulate. Leaves linear, 3 or more, lower 2 largest and usually 

slightly longer than inflorescence, decreasing in size and becoming 

bractlike upwards, narrowly lanceolate, 5–10(–15) mm wide, 

midrib slightly raised. Stem rounded to nearly square below, and 

4-angled to 4-winged above. Inflorescence a lax pseudo-panicle, 

ultimate branches with 1–3 sessile flowers. Flowers bilaterally 

symmetric, white to cream, rarely pale violet, when whitish 

sometimes fading or drying lilac especially on the tube, opening 

in the evening, then sometimes scented; perianth tube cylindrical, 

slender, 7–16 cm long; tepals lanceolate, extended more or less at 

right angles to tube, 8–11 × 6–7 mm. Style branches c. 2 mm long, 

forked for c. 1/3 their length. Capsules obovoidoblong, 8–12 mm 

long, partly enclosed in bracts. 

The species grows in moist habitats in arid areas, stream 

sides and seasonal marshes as well as in damp grassland 

between 1200 and 2150 m in Tigray, Gonder and Sidamo 

floristic regions in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It also occurs 

in Kenya, Sudan, Tanzania, southern Zambia, Zimbabwe, 

possibly Malawi, Angola, Namibia, and northern 

Botswana. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

May to August.

234 IRIDACEAE 

Dierama cupuliflorum 

Description 

4. DIERAMA K. Koch 

The genus is easily recognised from the other indigenous 

genera by the wiry, usually drooping spikes, and the 

pendent, radially symmetric flowers. 

The genus includes evergreen perennials with large 

persistent corms with coarsely fibrous tunics. The leaves 

are several; the lower cataphylls are 2–3, sheathing 

the base, often dry and becoming fibrous; the foliage 

leaves are linear, plane, fibrous, often without a midrib. 

The stem is terete, slender and wiry, usually branched. 

The inflorescence is a spike. The axes are wiry, usually 

drooping, but sometimes erect. The bracts are scarious, 

solid or sometimes membranous, if so then often 

translucent, lacerate above and usually brownstreaked 

or veined. The flowers are usually pink (also red, purple, 

yellow or white), radially symmetric, usually pendent 

and campanulate, with a fairly short funnelshaped 

tube. The tepals are subequal. The style is exserted 

from tube, seldom from the perianth, and the branches 

are simple, short and filiform. The capsules are globose 

and coriaceous. The seeds are globose or slightly angled, 

hard, smooth and often shiny. 

The genus contains c. 44 species that extend from the 

eastern Cape in South Africa through east tropical Africa 

to Ethiopia. Most species are concentrated in southern 

Africa. Only one species is known in Ethiopia. 

Dierama cupuliflorum Klatt 

The specific epithet ‘cupuliflorum’ refers to the cup 

(cupula) shaped (florum) flower. 

The species was described by Klatt in 1879 from a 

plant collected in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania by Decken and 

Kersten. 

Plant in clumps of few to many stems. Corms 10–20 (–25) mm in 

diameter. Leaves several, basal 20–85 × 0.4–0.7(–1.1) cm. Stems 

0.3–1–3.5 m long, 2–4branched. Spikes pendulous, terminal 

2–6(–7)-flowered, lateral spikes 2–4(–5)-flowered, flowers usually 

laxly arranged. Flower 18–30 mm long; tepals 12–15 × 4.5–9 mm. 

Anthers 5–7.5 mm long. Stigmas reaching to 3–6 mm below tepal 

apices. Ovary ovoid, c. 4 mm long; style reaching to anther apices 

or shortly beyond them, and 3–4 mm short of tepal apices. Capsules 

globose, 6–8 mm long.


distribution 

Hesperantha 

petitiana 

DIERAMA HESPERANTHA 235 

It grows in grassland and heath between 2000 and 3500 m 

in Arsi and Bale floristic regions. It also occurs in Kenya, 

Tanzania, Uganda and Malawi. The main flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from October to December, sometimes also 


5. HESPERANTHA Ker Gawl. 

The genus is distinguished from other indigenous genera 

by the radially symmetric perianth, by the style dividing 

at the mouth of the perianth tube into long and spreading 

branches, and by having the stigmatic surface spread 

along the entire length of the style branches. 

The genus includes perennial herbs with small corms 

with woody to leathery tunics. The leaves are few to 

several; the lower cataphylls 2–3, membranaceous 

and entirely sheathing; the foliage leaves lanceolate to 

linear (rarely terete). The blades are plane or sometimes 

with raised margins and midrib. The stem is simple or 

occasionally branched. The inflorescence is a spike. The 

flowers are radially symmetric, usually white or pink and 

frequently closed in the day and opening in the evening. 

The tepals are united in a cylindrical or curved tube, 

subequal, spread horizontally or cupped. The style is 

usually dividing at the mouth of the tube, and the branches 

are long and spreading with the stigmatic surfaces along 

their entire length. The capsules are broadly ovoid to 

cylindrical, sometimes dehiscing only in the upper third. 

The genus contains c. 65 species in subSaharan 

Africa, mainly in the Drakensberg and the Cape in South 

Africa. Only 3 species are known in tropical Africa, and 

of these only the following species occur in Ethiopia. 

Hesperantha petitiana (A. Rich.) Baker 

The specific epithet ‘petitiana’ was given in honour of 

the French collector, Anto ine Petit from whose collection 


described by A. Richard in 1850 as Ixia petitiana from 

a plant collected near Maigougua in Tigray floristic 

region by QuartinDillon and Petit. The name was later 

transferred to the genus Hesperantha by Baker in 1878.

236 IRIDACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Plant 8–30(–45) cm high. Corm globose to ovoid, 7–12 mm in 

diameter, tunics dark brown, woody to somewhat membranaceous, 

concentric. Leaves 3–4, lower 2(–3) basal and longest, 2–6 mm wide, 

about half to twothirds as long as stem, margins and midrib usually 

lightly thickened; upper leaf inserted in the middle of the stem, 

short and usually entirely sheathing. Stem erect, very occasionally 

branched. Spike (1–)2–6(9–)-flowered; bracts (9–)12–15 mm long. 

Flowers pink, lilac or white; perianth tube 6–9 mm long, cylindrical 

and straight. Tepals (9–)12–18 mm long, ovateelliptic, 5–7 mm 

wide, outer often flushed darker on the back side. Filaments 3–4 

mm long; anthers (3–)4–7.5 mm long. Style branches 6 mm long. 

Capsules oblongellipsoid, 10–15 mm long. 

It grows on rocky sites and short grassland, open hillsides 

with some low scrub, often on cliffs and rock outcrops 

between 2300 and 4100 m in Tigray, Gonder, Shewa, 

Arsi, Gamo Gofa, Sidamo, and Bale floristic regions. 

It also occurs in the Sudan, Kenya, Ugan da, Tanzania, 

Came roon, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. The main flowering 

period in Ethi opia is from August to October. 

6. ROMULEA Maratti 

The genus is distinguished from other indigenous genera 

by the leaves which are terete to oval in transverse section 

and have narrow, longitudinal grooves. The flowers are 

solitary and radially symmetric. 

The genus includes perennials with small, globose 

corms with woody to cartilaginous or papery tunics. The 

leaves are few to several; the lower cataphylls are 2–3, 

entirely sheathing, membranaceous or firm and green; the 

foliage leaves are all basal, one to several, linear to more 

or less filiform with two narrow longtitudinal grooves on 

each surface, oval to terete in transverse section. The 

stem is simple or branched, branching usually below 

ground. The flowers are solitary and radially symmetric, 

cupulate, variously coloured, often yellow in their centre. 

The style is dividing at or above the level of the anthers, 

and the stylar branches are short, usually divided for half 

their length. The capsules are oblong. 

The genus contains c. 95 species which are distributed 

in southern and tropical Africa, southern Europe and the 

Mediterranean region. Its main concentration is in South 

Africa, with a secondary centre in the Mediterranean 

Basin and Middle East. Three species are known to occur 

in Ethiopia, one of them also in Eritrea.


HESPERANTHA ROMULEA 237 

1. Inner floral bracts rust-coloured and entirely membranaceous to scarious; 

peduncles comparatively thick, 1–1.3 mm in diameter 3. R. congoensis 

- Inner floral bracts entirely green or with narrow to broad scarious margins, 

these wither transparent or streaked with brown; pedicels 0.6–1 mm in 

diameter 2 

2. Inner floral bracts with a broad scarious margin irregularly streaked with brown; 

perianth tube 4–5 mm long 1. R. fischeri 

- Inner floral bracts green, or with pale narrow membranaceous margins; 

perianth tube 7–8 mm long 2. R. camerooniana 

Romulea fischeri 

Fig. 107. 

Romulea fischeri, 

from near Addis 

Ababa, Shewa 


1. Romulea fischeri Pax 

The specific epithet ‘fischeri’ was given in honour of 

the collector, Fischer from whose collection the type of 

the species was designated. The species was described 

by Pax in 1892 from a plant collected in the Aber dare 

mountains, Kenya. 

The species is related to the eastern and southern 

African R. came rooniana, and difficult to separate from 

that species, but in R. fischeri the inner bracts have a 

broad scarious margin irregularly streaked with brown. 

In contrast R. came roo niana has pale green inner bracts, 

without brown streaks.

238 IRIDACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Romulea 

camerooniana 

Description 

Plant (1–)7–12 cm high excluding leaves. Corm globose, tapering 

below to an oblique rounded base, 7–10 mm in diameter, tunics 

woody or cartilaginous, redbrown. Foliage leaves (2–)3–5, mostly 

8–15 mm long, oblong in transverse section. Flowering stems 1–4 

per plant, more or less erect, becoming slightly falcate after anthesis. 

Outer bracts green, usually with narrow membranous margins, inner 

bracts with broad scarious margins streaked with brown, 12–18 mm 

long, as long as or slightly shorter than the outer. Flowers blue, 

purple, or violet, occasionally almost white, yellow in the centre, 

tepals with bands of darker pigment over 3 main veins, particularly 

so on reverse; perianth tube 4–5 mm long; tepals lanceolate, erect 

below, curving outwards above, 10–16 × 3–4 mm. Style dividing 

between the upper third and apex of the anthers, branches c. 1.5 

mm long, usually arching outward shortly above anther apices, 

occasionally exceeding anthers by 2–3 mm. Capsules ovoidoblong, 


This species grows on rocky sites, along track, often in 

heavily grazed grassland between 2200 and 4200 m. It 

is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It also occurs in 

the Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, Ugan da, and Saudi Arabia. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from August 

to October. 

2. Romulea camerooniana Baker 

The specific epithet ‘camerooniana’ refers to the country 

of origin where the collection was made, Cameroon. The 

species was described by Baker in 1876 from a plant 

collected from Mt. Cameroon by Mann. 

The species is related to R. fischeri and difficult to 

distinguish from that species, but in this species the 

inner bracts are green, or with pale narrow membranous 

margins. In R. fischeri, the inner bracts have irregularly 

brown streaks. 

Plant 5–8 cm high excluding leaves. Corm ovoid, tapering below to 

a blunt point, 8–15 mm in diameter, tunics woody or cartilaginous, 

red-brown, usually extending upward in a fibrous neck around base 

of stem. Foliage leaves 2(–3) plus one more for each additional 

flowering stem, oval in transverse section usually straight. Flowering 

stems 1–4 per plant, more or less erect. Outer bracts green and 

lightly striate, 12–18 mm long, inner bracts similar or often with 

narrow mem branaceous margins, as long as or slightly shorter than 

outer. Flowers blue, purple, or violet, yellow in centre, tepals with 

darker bands of pigment over 3 main veins, particularly so on the 

reverse; perianth tube 7–8 mm long. Style dividing opposite upper


distribution 

Romulea congoensis 

Description 


distribution 

HESPERANTHA ROMULEA 239 

third of anthers, branches c.1 mm long, usually arching shortly 

above anther apices, occasionally substantially exceeding anthers. 

Capsules ovoidoblong, 7–10 mm long. 

It grows on rocky outcrops with volcanic boulders 

between 1950 and 2400 m in Bale and Sidamo floristic 

regions. It also occurs from Kenya to S. Africa, and in 

Cameroon and the Sudan. The main common flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from April to June. 

3. Romulea congoensis Bég. 

The specific epithet ‘congoensis’ refers to the country 

of origin where the collection was made, Congo. The 

species was descri bed by Béguinot in 1938. 

The species is clearly distinguished from the previous 

two species by the rust-coloured inner floral bracts. It 

was also known by the name R. keniensis, which is now 

a synonym. 

Plant 2–5(–10) cm high including leaves. Corm depressedglobose, 

5–9 mm in diameter, tunics membranous, reddish brown. Leaves 

3–5(–7), linear, usually arcuate, oval in transverse section with 

4 narrow longitudinal grooves, 1–1.3 mm wide, midrib evident 

without a central hyaline ridge. Flowering stems 1–2 per plant, 

more or less erect at anthesis, soon curving outward, sharply so in 

fruit, 1–1.3 mm in diameter; bracts 12–15 mm long, outer green 

with broad membranaceous margins, inner bracts entirely membranaceous 

to scarious, slightly short than outer. Flowers blue to 

white, with a white to yellow centre; perianth tube funnelshaped, 

c. 7.5 mm long; tepals lanceolate, erect below, patent in upper half, 

15–20 × c. 6 mm. Filaments 5–6 mm long; anthers c. 6 mm long. 

Ovary oblong, c. 3 mm long; style reaching to about middle of 

anthers, branches not exceeding anther apices. Capsules ovate, c. 10 

mm long, usually pendent (erect when pedicel not reaching above 

ground). 

It grows on rocky places between 3300 and 4100 m in 

Arsi, Bale and Gamo Gofa floristic regions. It also occurs 

in Kenya, Uganda, and Democratic Republic of Congo 

(Zaire). The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

August to October.

240 IRIDACEAE 

Zygotritonia praecox 

Description 


distribution 

7. ZYGOTRITONIA Mildbr. 

This genus is easily recognised within the family in 

Ethiopia by its small white flowers and the undivided 

style. 

The genus includes small seasonal herbs with corms. 

The leaves are few, lanceolate to linear, prominently 

nerved to somewhat plicate. The stem is flattened, simple 

or branched. The inflorescence is a spike with spirally 

arranged flowers. The bracts are small, green, drying 

brown. The flowers are yellow, orange or white, and 

bilaterally symmetric. The tepals are united to form 

a cylindric tube; unequal, upper larger held apart and 

hooded, lower three forming a lip. The stamens are 

arcuate. The style is slender and simple (undivided). The 

capsule is threelobed. The seeds are globose to angled 

and smooth on the surface. 

The genus is represented by four species, all in tropical 

Africa. Of these, only the following species is known to 

occur in Ethiopia. 

Zygotritonia praecox Stapf 

The specific epithet ‘praecox’ refers to the sequence in 

the development of the flowers and the leaves, in this case 

referring to the development of flowers before the leaves 

(praecox). The species was descri bed by Stapf in 1927 

from a plant collected from Abinsi, Nigeria by Dalziel. 

Plants 15–25 cm high. Corm 12–22 mm in diameter. Leaves 

hysteranthous, flowering stem bearing two small leaves, one basal 

and sheathing twothird of the stem, reaching to about the base of 

the spike, the upper leaf (when present) as long as or shorter than 

the lower and inserted in the third; the lower leaf with linear to 

lanceolate leaf blade, 3–12 cm long, 1–5 mm wide. Stem simple or 

with 1–2 branches. Spike with 8–24 flowers on the main axis, 5–12 

on the branches. Flowers whitish, flushed pink on the tube and at the 

end of the tepals, especially the upper; perianth tube 2.5–3 mm long; 

tepals linear to lanceolate, the upper 5–8 mm long, the other tepals 

3–4 mm long. Filaments 3–4 mm long. Capsule 3 mm long and 3–4 

mm wide, dark brown slightly warty. 

The species grows in dense stands in bush land meadows 

with rocky outcrops, between 1600 and 1620 m, near 

Assosa in Wellega floristic region. The species is otherwise

Fig. 108. 

Zygotritonia 

praecox, from 

near Assosa, 


region. 

ZYGOTRITONIA GLADIOLUS 241 

known from Senegal, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, and in 

the Central African Republic. The recent collection in 

western Ethiopia represents a large extension eastwards. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from May to 

July. 

8. GLADIOLUS L. 

The genus is easily recognised in Ethiopia within the 

family by its large conspicuous bilaterally symmetrical 

flowers. 

The genus includes perennial herbs with corms. The

242 IRIDACEAE 


leaves are few to several, usually contemporary with 

flowers (or developing after flowering and borne on 

separate shoots), basal or cauline; the blades are well 

developed or reduced and largely to entirely sheathing, 

lanceolate to linear and plane. The stem is terete, simple 

or branched. The inflorescence is a one sided spike. The 

bracts are usually green, soft to firm, sometimes dry and 

brown at anthesis, relatively large, inner usually smaller 

than outer. The flowers are bilaterally symmetric. The 

tepals are united in a welldeveloped, sometimes very 

long tube, subequal to unequal, the dorsal is broader and 

arching over stamens, the lower are narrower than the 

dorsal. The filaments are arcuate, included or exserted 

from the tube. The style is exserted and the branches are 

simple. The capsules are large and slightly inflated. The 

seeds are usually many, with a broad membranous wing 

(wingless in a few species). 

The genus includes c. 250 species, centred mainly in 

southern Africa and extending through tropical Africa and 

Madagascar, with a few species in Europe and the Middle 

East. Of these, 16 species are known to occur in Ethiopia. 

Six species are endemic in Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

1. Perianth tube about twice as long as tepals (or longer), exceeding bracts (and 

at least 50 mm long); flowers white to cream, with or without red to purple 

marks on lower tepals 2 

- Perianth tube shorter to slightly longer than both upper tepal and bracts (never 

twice as long); flowers variously coloured including white or cream 4 

2. Lower tepals splashed with dark purple in lower half, and anthers with acute 

apiculate appendages 15. G. murielae 

- Lower tepals not marked with contrasting colours; anthers either with acute 

apiculate appendages or with rounded apices 3 

3. Anthers with acute apiculate appendages 16. G. candidus 

- Anthers with obtuse apices (without apiculate apices) 9. G. gunnisii 

4. Dorsal tepal 2–3 times as long as other tepals and twice as long as wide 5 

- Dorsal tepal up to 1.5 times as long as other tepals and usually less than twice 

as long as wide 6 

5. Bracts 35–70 mm, usually red or purple; dorsal tepal 20–40 mm 

11. G. abyssinicus


- Bracts 18–24(–30) mm, usually dull purple; dorsal tepal 12–18(–22) mm 

12. G. schweinfurthii 

6. Flowers fairly large, 55–95 mm long; perianth tube 30–45 mm long 7 

- Flowers of moderate size, 25–45(–54) mm long; perianth tube 12–25(–30) 

mm long 10 

7. Lower tepals half to a third as long as dorsal 8 

- Lower tepals about as long or not much shorter than dorsal 9 

8. Flowers predominantly red; perianth tube comprising a slender lower part, 

20–25 mm long, abruptly expanded into a wide horizontal cylindrical upper 

part c. 15 mm long; dorsal tepal extended forward horizontally 

10. G. longispathaceus 

- Flowers orange, yellow or sometimes brownish; perianth tube not abruptly 

expanded above into a wide cylindrical upper part, gradually expanding above 

and narrowly and obliquely funnel-shaped; dorsal tepal hooded over stamens 

and concealing them 6. G. dalenii 

9. Plant with only 2–3 foliage leaves on stem; floral bracts 20–27(–35) mm long; 

tepals uniformly pale 3. G. negelienesis 

- Plant with (3–)4–5 foliage leaves; floral bracts (35–)40–60 mm long; tepals each 

with a prominent central stripe 8. G. pauciflorus 

10. Flowering stem lacking long-bladed foliage leaves, these produced on separate 

shoots after flowering has begun; flowers white to pale pink 7. G. roseolus 

- Flowering stem with foliage leaves present at flowering time; flowers with 

various colours, including white and pale pink 11 

11. Flowers 25–35 mm long 12 

- Flowers 36–54 mm long 13 

12. Perianth tube c. 12 mm long; bracts 20–25(–30) mm long; anther apices 

obtuse, without appendages 5. G. calcicola 

- Perianth tube c. 15 mm long; bracts 14–20(–25) mm long; anther apices 

with short acute apiculate appendages 3. G. mensensis 

13. Perianth tube about half as long as dorsal tepal, and c. 15 mm long 

4. G. boranensis 

- Perianth tube about as long as dorsal tepal and at least 16 mm long 14 

14. Flower red or pink and with broad longitudinal cream or white nectar guides 

on lower tepals; anthers with acute apiculate appendages c. 1 mm long 

13. G. sudanicus 

- Flower shades of white or pink, but then without longitudinal pale markings 

on lower tepals; anthers without pale acute apiculate appendages 15

244 IRIDACEAE 

15. Flower more than 45 mm long 8. G. pauciflorus 

- Flower 36–42 mm long 16 

16. Perianth white, lower lateral tepals with yellow to greenish transverse 

blotches; erect plant of open grassland or light woodland 1. G. balensis 

- Perianth pink, lower tepals evidently without markings; plant of rock 

outcrops and cliffs, usually hanging downward 14. G. lithicola 

Gladiolus balensis 

Description 

Fig. 109. 

Gladiolus 

balensis, from 

near Ginir, Bale 


1. Gladiolus balensis Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘balensis’ refers to the floristic region 

where the original collection was made, Bale. The species 

was described by Goldblatt in 1996 from plants collected 

near Ginir by Gilbert, Ensermu K., and Vollesen. 

The species is easily distinguished from other 

indigenous species by the slender habit and white flowers 

with usually pink marks in the upper lateral tepals and 

yellowish in the lower ones. 

Plant 50–60 cm high. Corm 18–22 mm in diameter. Foliage leaves 

3, only lower most basal, this longer, upper 2 leaves inserted above 

ground level and shorter than the basal, blades narrowly lanceolate 

to linear. Stem erect, unbranched, 2–3 mm in diameter at the base 

of the spike. Spike 5–9-flowered, straight and erect. Flowers white, 

usually pink in midline of upper lateral tepals and flushed pink on 

fading; perianth tube 18–20 mm long, expanded in upper 5 mm; 

tepals unequal, dorsal longer and arched over stamens, broadly 

lanceolate, c. 22 × 15 mm, upper laterals slightly smaller, lower 3 

tepals c. 24 mm long, lower laterals 6–7 mm wide, lower median c. 

10 mm wide. Filaments c. 14 mm long, exserted 4–5 mm from the 

tube. Style dividing just beyond anther apices, branches extending 

well past anthers, 3–4 mm long. Capsules and seeds unknown.


distribution 

Gladiolus negeliensis 

Description 

Fig. 110. 

Gladiolus 

negeliensis, from 

near Negelle, 


region. 


It grows on rocky basalt outcrops in grass on mountain 

slopes and on limestone escarpment in Acacia- 

Combretum woodland between 1750 and 1850 m in Bale 

floristic region in southeastern Ethiopia. It is not known 

anywhere else. The main flowering period is from May 

to June. 

2. Gladiolus negeliensis Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘negeliensis’ refers to the place where 

the original collection was made, Negeli (Negelle). The 

species was described by Goldblatt in 1996 from a plant 

collected from south of Negelle on the road to Melka 

Guba, in Sidamo floristic region, Ethiopia by Friis, 

Mesfin T., and Volle sen. 

The species is easily distinguished from other 

indigenous species by the slender habit and moderate 

sized 15–30 mm long, white to pale pink flowers. 


usually 3 (or less), all basal or upper inserted on lower part of stem, 

blades narrowly lanceolate to linear, reaching to about middle of 

stem. Stem unbranched, generally flexed outward at base of spike 

or above sheath of upper leaf, 1.5–2 mm in diameter at the base of 

the spike. Spike 2–5-flowered. Flowers white to pale pink, tepals 

each with a medium pink streak and lower 3 with greenish to yellow 

markings, throat often streaked with pink; perianth tube 30–40 mm 

long, obliquely funnelshaped, narrow part 25–30 mm long and 

reaching or exceeding apices of bracts; tepals lanceolate, dorsal

246 IRIDACEAE 


distribution 

Gladiolus mensensis 

Description 


distribution 

25–28 × 1012 mm, lower 3 tepals 25–27 × 8–10 mm. Filaments 

8–10 mm long, exserted 4–5 mm from tube. Style dividing near 

anther apices, or sometimes beyond them, branches 4–5 mm long, 

spreading beyond anthers. Capsules and seeds unknown. 

It grows on open flat grassland, sometimes waterlogged 

in the rainy season between 1500 and 1700 m in Sidamo 

floristic region, southern Ethiopia. It is not known 

anywhere else. The main flowering period is from May 

to June. 

3. Gladiolus mensensis (Schweinf.) Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘mensensis’ refers to the locality 

where the original collection was made, Mensa. The 

species was described by Schweinfurth in 1894 as Trito 

nia mensensis from plants collected in Eritrea by 

Schwein furth. The name was later transferred to the 

genus Gladiolus in 1996 by Goldblatt. 

The species is distinguished from the similar species, 

G. calcicola by its comparatively longer perianth tube (c. 

15 mm long) in contrast to the shorter (c. 12 mm long) 

in G. calcicola. 

Plant 25–50(–80) cm high. Corm 12–14 mm in diameter. Foliage 

leaves 4–5, lower 2–3 more or less basal, seldom reaching beyond 

middle of spike, blades linear, 2–4 mm wide, upper 2 or 3 leaves 

much shorter than basal and largely to entirely sheathing. Stem 

erect, unbranched, c. 2 mm in diameter at base of spike. Spike 

4–7-flowered, erect. Flowers pink or white; perianth tube c. 15 

mm long, obliquely funnelshaped; tepals more or less equal, 

possibly dorsal slightly larger, 18–20 mm long, c. 8 mm wide, their 

orientation uncertain. Filaments 9–12 mm long, exserted 4–5 mm 

from tube. Style arched over stamens, dividing just beyond anther 

apices, branches c. 2.5 mm long. Capsules obovoid ellipsoid, c. 13 

mm long. 

It grows on rocky grassland at c. 2200 m near Gheleb 

in Eritrea. It is not known anywhere else. The main 

flowering period is in April. 

This is a poorly known species and additional 

collections are needed.

Gladiolus boranensis 

Description 


distribution 

Gladiolus calcicola 

4. Gladiolus boranensis Goldblatt 


The specific epithet ‘boranensis’ refers to the region 

where the original collection was made, Borana. The 

species was described by Goldblatt in 1996 from a plant 

collected from Mega, in Sidamo floristic region by 

Mooney. 

The species is distinguished from the related species, 

G. mensensis and G. calci cola by its larger flowers (36– 

55 mm long) in contrast to the smaller (less than 35 mm 

long) in the other two. 


6–7, lower 3–4 basal and longest, usually exceeding spike by 

5–15 cm, blades linear, 2–4(–6) mm wide, midrib and margins 

moderately thickened, upper (1–2)2–3 leaves short and largely to 

entirely sheathing, usually without blades. Stem erect, unbranched, 

2–3 mm in diameter at base of spike. Spike 5–10-flowered, straight 

and erect. Flowers pale to deep pink, pale in the throat and toward 

bases of lower tepals; perianth tube c. 15 mm long, obliquely funnelshaped; 

tepals apparently nearly equal or dorsal slightly larger, 24– 

32 × 15 mm, lower 3 tepals 24–30 × c. 13 mm. Filaments 12–15 

mm long, exserted c. 5 mm from tube. Style arching over stamens, 

dividing near anther apices, branches c. 4 mm long. Capsules and 

seeds unknown. 

It grows in Juniperus forest and Commiphora scrub, 

sometimes in rocky sites; be tween 1800 and 2400 m near 

Mega in Sidamo floristic region. It also occurs in Kenya. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from September 

to October. 

5. Gladiolus calcicola Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘calcicola’ refers to the habitat on 

which the species grows on calcareous slopes, literally 

meaning, calcium (calci) dwelling (cola). The species 

was described by Goldblatt in 1996 from a plant collected 

in an area south of Harar, in Harerge floristic region, 

Ethiopia by de Wilde. 

The species is distinguished from the similar 

species, G. mensensis, known only from Eritrea, by its 

comparatively shorter perianth tube (c. 12 mm long) in 

contrast to the longer (c. 15 mm long) in G. men sensis.

248 IRIDACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Description 


5–6, lower longest and reaching base of spike, eventually (after 

flowering) about as long as spikes, linear, (2–)3–5 mm wide. Stem 

erect, rarely with 1 short branch, 2–3 mm in diameter at base of 

spike. Spike 2–4(–7)-flowered. Flowers pale salmon pink, tepasl 

darker along midline; perianth tube c. 12 mm long, curving outward 

and widening above; tepals subequal, 16–18 mm long (often shorter 

when dry), narrowly lanceolate, straight and directed forward. 

Filaments 11–12 mm long, exserted c. 3 mm from tube. Style 

arching over stamens, dividing opposite middle of anthers, branches 

c. 3 mm long, not reaching anther apices. Capsules ellipsoid, 17–22 

mm long. 

It grows on stony limestone soils at c. 2000 m in Harerge 

floristic region and is not known from anywhere else. The 

main flowering period is from September to November. 

6. Gladiolus dalenii van Geel 

The specific epithet ‘dalenii’ refers to the Dutch Botanist, 

Cornelius Dalen, who was associated with the Rotterdam 

Botanic Garden and responsible for the introduction of 

the species from Natal, South Africa in cultivation. 

The species is easily recognised by the large showy 

yellow, orange to deep red flowers with the upper three 

tepals 35–50 mm long, much exceeding the lower 

tepals. 

Two subspecies are recognised. G. da le nii subsp. 

dalenii and subsp. andong en sis. The latter can be 

confused with G. su danicus which also has red flowers. 

How ever, the subspecies has longer perianth tube (25–) 

35–45 in contrast to the 16–20 mm long perianth tube 

in G. suda ni cus. G. dalenii subsp. dalenii has large 

yellowish flowers. 

Plant 50–120(–150) cm high. Corm (15–)20–30 mm in diameter. 

Foliage leaves either contemporary with flowering stem (subsp. 

dalenii) and 4–6(–7), or borne later on separate shoots (subsp. 

an dong ensis) and 2–4 on the flowering stem, then foliage leaves 

produced on separate shoots after flowering, blades narrowly 

lanceolate to more or less linear, (5–)10–20(–30) mm wide, about 

half as long as spike. Spike (2–)3–7(–14)-flowered. Flowers either 

red to orange with a yellow mark on each of 3 lower tepals, or 

yellow to greenish and often with red to brown streaks on upper 

tepals; perianth tube (25–)35–45 mm long, nearly cylindrical and 

curving outward in upper half; tepals unequal, 3 upper broadly 

ellipticobovate, dorsal largest, 35–50 × 22–30 mm, upper laterals 

about as long, 30–45 × 20–30 mm wide, lower 3 tepals curving

Fig. 111. 

Gladiolus dalenii 

subsp. dalenii, 

from Tanzania. 

Subspecies 


subsp. dalenii 


distribution 


downward, 20–25(–30) × 8–12 mm. Filaments c.. 25 mm long, 

exserted 15–18 mm from tube. Style arched over stamens, dividing 

near apex of anthers, branches (4–)5–6 mm long. Capsules ellipsoid 

to ovoid, (18–)25–35 mm long 12–14 mm in diameter at wide. 

1. Leaves of flowering stem with long well-developed blades (i.e., 

leaves and flowers seen together). a. subsp. dalenii 

- Leaves of flowering stem either entirely sheathing or with short 

blades to 10(–15) cm long and long-bladed foliage leaves always 

produced on separate shoots later in the season (i.e., leaves and 

flowers not seen together). b. subsp. andongensis 

a. subsp. dalenii 

Plant (50–)70–120 cm high. Leaves borne on flowering stem, 4–6(– 

7), at least lower 2 basal or nearly so, narrowly lanceolate to more 

or less linear, (5–)10–20(–30) mm wide, about half as long as spike, 

upper 1–2 leaves cauline and sheathing for at least half their length, 

sometimes entirely, often imbricate. Flowers with tube 35–45 mm 

long, dorsal tepal (35–)40–50 mm long. Filaments 25–30 mm long, 

exserted 15–20 mm from tube. 

It grows in grassland, light woodland and bush between 

870 and 1600 m and is fairly widespread in Ethiopia. It is 

also common throughout tropical and in southern Africa. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from May to 

September; some times also from January to February.

250 IRIDACEAE 


subsp. andongensis 


distribution 

Gladiolus roseolus 

Description 

b. subsp. andongensis (Baker) Goldblatt 

The subpecific epithet ‘andongensis’ refers to the region 

of origin where the collec tion was made, Pungo Andongo 

in north western Angola. The subspecies was described 

by Baker in 1892 from a plant collected by Welwitsch. 

Plant 60–90 cm high. Leaves not contemporaneous with flowers, 

those of flowering stem 2–4, short and entirely sheathing, 6–14 cm 

long, or sometimes with blades 20–30(–50) × 6–12 mm, imbricate 

and sheathing lower half of stem; foliage leaves emerging from 

separate shoots later, usually at least 2, narrowly lanceolate, 300– 

500 × 4–16 mm. Flowers with tube 25–33(–40) mm long; dorsal 

tepal 35–45 × 22–25 mm. Filaments c. 25 mm long, exserted 15–18 

mm from tube. 

It grows mainly in highlands, in grassland or light 

woodland betwen 1300 and 2100 m in Sidamo, Gamo 

Gofa, Kefa and Wel lega floristic regions. It is also 

widespread in tropical Africa. The main flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from April to June; sometimes also from 

January to February. 

7. Gladiolus roseolus Chiov. 

The specific epithet ‘roseolus’ refers to the pink to 

pale colour of the perianth which is observed in some 

population of the species. The species was described by 

Chio venda in 1911 from plants collected from northern 

Ethiopia, one of which is from the Semien, on rocky 

meadow on the slopes of Limalmo in Gonder floristic 

region. 

The species is unique among the indigenous species 

(except in G. dalenii subsp. andongensis) in having 

foliage leaves produced from separate shoots after 

flowering time. It is easily distinguished from it in that 

G. dalenii subsp. andongensis has larger flowers, 60–95 

mm long, longer stamens with the anthers well exserted 

from the perianth tube and red to pale-pink flowers. 

Plant (40–)60–90 cm high. Corm 25–30 mm in diameter. Foliage 

leaves (of flowering stem)(1–) 2–4, short and almost entirely 

sheathing, sometimes with short blades, 6–14 cm long. Stem 

unbranched, 2–3 mm in diameter below first flower. Spike 

(2–)5–10-flowered. Flowers whitish with a pink flush to pink, 

sometimes speckled with minute red dots; perianth tube 18–22 

mm long, cylindrical, curving outward and widening above; tepals 

unequal, upper three largest, ovateelliptic, 26–30 mm long, 10–

Fig. 112. 

Gladiolus 

roseolus, from 


region. 


distribution 


12 mm wide in midline, dorsal arched almost horizontally over 

stamens, lower 3 tepals lanceolate, curving downward, 20–24 × 4–6 

mm, lower laterals smallest. Filaments c. 12 mm long, exserted 4–5 

mm from tube; anthers 1012 mm long, pale yellow. Style arching 

over stamens, dividing 2–4 mm beyond apex of anthers, branches 

4–5 mm long. Capsules narrowly obovoid, 20–25 mm long. 


and bamboo thicket, in open woodlands often on rocky 

sites between 1200 and 2200 m in Gonder, Gojam, 

Shewa, Kefa, and Wellega floristic regions. It also occurs 

in Togo, Nigeria and Cameroon. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from May to June.

252 IRIDACEAE 

Fig. 113. 

Gladiolus 

pauciflorus, 

from near the 

Sidambale 

bridge, Bale 


Gladiolus pauciflorus 

Description 


distribution 

8. Gladiolus pauciflorus Baker 

The specific epithet ‘pauciflorus’ refers to the few 

(pauci-) flowers (-florus), 2–4 (so me times more) on the 

inflorescence. The species was described by Baker in 

1886 from a plant collected on Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. 

The species is distinguished from other indigenous 

species by its consistent 4–5 foliage leaves and cream to 

yellowish-green flowers with distinct red streaks. 

Plant 80–105 cm high. Corms 15–22 cm in diameter. Foliage leaves 

(3–)4–5, lower (2–)3–4 basal and largest, narrowly lanceolate, (6– 

)8–15 mm wide, reaching to about base of spike. Stem unbranched, 

3–3.5 mm in diameter at base of spike. Spike (2–)4–8(–10)-flowered. 

Flowers cream to yellowishgreen, or sometimes pink to reddish, 

or flushed orange, lower 3 tepals often with a dark purple median 

streak; perianth tube (20–)35–45 mm long, cylindrical below, 

widening toward apex; tepals broadly or narrowly lanceolate, upper 

3 largest 3045 × 18–24 mm, lowermost nearly as long as upper, 

lower laterals substantially smaller. Filaments 22–24 mm long, 

exserted 10–14 mm from tube. Style arched over stamens, dividing 

just below anther apices, branches 4–7 mm long, ultimately 

exceeding anthers. Capsules obovoid, 15–20 mm long. 

The species occurs in the highlands in open grassland or 

woodland between 1500 and 1600 m in Bale, Harerge 

and Sidamo floristic regions. It also occurs in Kenya, 

northern Tanzania, and Uganda. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from April to June. 

9. Gladiolus gunnisii (Rendle) Marais 

The specific epithet ‘gunnisii’ is named after a member of 

an expedition, F. G. Gun nis that collected specimens on 

the mountains south of Berbera, in northern Somalia.

Gladiolus gunnisii 

Description 


distribution 

Gladiolus 

longispathaceus 

Description 


The species was described by Rendle in 1898 as 

Acidanthera gunnisii from a plant collected at Toghdeer, 

top of Mt Wagga, in northern Somaila by LortPhil lips. 

The name was later transferred to the genus Gladiolus by 

Marais in 1973. 

G. murielae, G. candidus and G. gunnisii are the only 

three species in Ethiopia with perianth tube twice as long 

as tepals. The latter is easily recognised by the white to 

cream flower, included filaments and narrow grass-like 

leaves. 

Plant 25–35(–45) cm high. Corm globoseconic, 11–14 mm in 

diameter. Foliage leaves 3–5, lower 2–3 basal, a third as long as 

stem, blades linear, 2–3(–4.5) mm wide, upper leaves cauline and 

progressively shorter, sometimes uppermost entirely sheathing. 

Stem unbranched. Spike (1–)2–3-flowered. Flowers white to pale 

yellow, strongly fragrant; perianth tube slender, 80120 mm long, 

expanding in upper 10 mm; tepals evidently subequal, nearly 

elliptic, dorsal probably horizontal, remaining tepals spreading, 

25–30 mm long. Filaments c. 9 mm long, included in tube or barely 

exserted for c. 1 mm. Style dividing c. 5 mm beyond anther apices, 

branches c. 5 mm long. Capsules and seeds unknown. 

It grows in mountaineous areas, in rocky habitats between 

1500 and 2300 m in Bale and Sidamo floristic regions 

in Ethiopia and in Eri trea. It also occurs in Somalia and 

northern Kenya. The main flowering period in Ethiopia 

is from May to June. 

10. Gladiolus longispathaceus Cufodontis 

The specific epithet ‘longispathaceus’ refers to the 

inflorescence having long (lon gi) spathes (-spathaceus). 

The species was described by Cufodontis in 1969 from 

a plant collected on Mt Dita in the Gamo Gofa floristic 

region by Kuls. 

The species is related to G. abyssinicus, but 

distinguished by the flowers with the upper laterals about 

as long as the dorsal tepal and by the larger bracts. In 

contrast, G. abyssinicus has dorsal tepal twice as long as 

the upper laterals and smaller bracts. 

Plant (45–)60–90 cm high. Corm 15–30 mm in diameter. Foliage 

leaves 5–6, lower 4–5 more or less basal and larger, upper 1–2 

cauline and reduced, narrowly lanceolate to nearly linear, 7–15 

mm at widest. Stem unbranched, 3–4 mm in diameter at base of 

spike. Spike 8–12-flowered. Flowers bright red, lower 3 tepals

254 IRIDACEAE 


distribution 

Gladiolus abyssinicus 

Description 

yellow; perianth tube in lower part slender and erect, 20–25 mm 

long, expanding and curved outward into a cylindrical, more or less 

horizontal upper part c. 15 mm long; tepals unequal, dorsal largest, 

32–35 × 20–22 mm, upper and lower laterals slightly shorter and 

lower tepals reduced. Filaments 27–35 mm long, exserted 12–15 

mm from tube.. Style arched over stamens, dividing just beyond 

apices of anthers, branches c. 4 mm long, strongly expanded above 

when unfolded. Capsules broadly ovoid, 10–14 mm long. 

It grows in the highlands, in moist habitats, streams and 

wet rocks between 2400 and 4000 m in Bale and Gamo 

Gofa floristic regions. It is not known anywhere else. The 

main flowering period is from July to October. 

11. Gladiolus abyssinicus (Brongn. ex Lemaire) 

Goldblatt & de Vos 

The specific epithet ‘abyssinicus‘ refers to the former 

name of Ethiopia, Abyssinia where the original collection 

was made. The species was validly published in 1845 as 

Antholyza abyssinica by Lemaire (ba sed on the work of 

Brongnart) from a plant collected on Mt Solloda, near 

Adwa in Tigray by QuartinDillon. The name was transferred 

to the genus Gladiolus by Gold blatt and de Vos in 

1989. 

The species is recognised from related species in 

Ethiopia by the dorsal tepal which is about twice as long 

as the upper lateral tepals and the lower three tepals 

reduced to short cusps. 


5–6, lower 4–5 more or less basal and largest, upper 1–2 cauline and 

reduced, narrowly lanceolate to nearly linear, reaching at least to 

base of spike, sometimes slightly exceeding it, 7–15 mm at widest 

part. Stem sometimes with 1 branch, usually 3–4 mm in diameter 

at base of spike. Spike 8-12 flowered. Flowers red on upper three 

tepals, greenish tipped yellow on lower, throat and perianth tube 

yellowish; tube 27–32 mm long, lower part slender and erect c.15 

m long, expanding and gradually curved outward into a cylindrical, 

more or less horizontal upper part, 12–16 mm long; tepals very 

unequal, dorsal, extended nearly horizontally, (20–)24–35(–40) mm 

long, up to 14 mm wide, upper laterals directed forward, lanceolate, 

12–20 × 12 mm lower tepals reduced, laterals lanceolate, 8–15 mm 

long, lowermost nearly 6–12 mm long. Filaments 25–30 mm long, 

exserted for up to 1–5 mm. Style dividing near to or slightly beyond 

apices of anthers, branches c. 4 mm long, much expanded in upper 

half. Capsules obovoidellipsoid, 10–12 mm long.

Fig. 114. 

Gladiolus 

abyssinicus, from 


region. 


distribution 

Gladiolus 

schweinfurthii 

Description 


It grows in the highlands, in wellwatered grassland, cliffs 

and rock outcrops, and stream sides mostly between 2000 

and 3350 m in Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, Welo, Shewa, Bale, 

and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It 

also occurs in Saudi Arabia. The main flowering period 

in Ethiopia is from August to October. 

12. Gladiolus schweinfurthii (Baker) Goldblatt & 

de Vos 

The specific epithet ‘schweinfurthii’ was given in 

honour of the collector, Georg Schweinfurth from whose 

collection the type of the species was designated. The 

species was described by Baker in 1894 as Antholyza 

schweinfurthii from a plant collected in Eritrea without 

a precise locality. The name was later transferred to the 

genus Gladiolus by Goldblatt and de Vos in 1989. 

The species is closely related to and pos sibly not 

separate from G. abyssinicus, but distinguished by its 

shorter perianth tube (11–16 mm long). In contrast G. 

abys sinicus has perianth tube 27–32 mm long. 

Plant (30–)50–75 cm high. Corm 8–15 mm in diameter. Foliage

256 IRIDACEAE 


distribution 

Gladiolus sudanicus 

Description 

leaves (3–)4–5, at least lower 2 basal and largest, upper 1–2 cauline 

and reduced, lanceolate to nearly linear, plane, half to twothird as 

long as stem, not reaching base of spike, 4–12(–20) mm at widest. 

Stem simple or with 1–2 branches. Spike 2–7(–12)-flowered. 

Flowers bright red to orangered on upper tepals, greenish fading 

to yellow on lower tepals, throat and perianth tube; tube 11–16 mm 

long; tepals very unequal, dorsal largest, extended horizontally 

12–18(–22) mm long, upper laterals directed forward, lanceolate, 

8–12(–14) mm long, lower tepals reduced, laterals narrowly 

lanceolate, 68 mm long, lowermost a linear cusp 36 mm long. 

Filaments 16–20 mm long, exserted 5–8 mm from tube. Style 

ultimately reaching near to apices of anthers, branches 3–4 mm 

long, extended beyond anthers and much expanded above. Capsules 

globoseovate, (7–)9–12 mm long. 

The species grows in bushland and grassland between 

750 and 2900 m in Gojam, Shewa, Arsi floristic regions 

in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It also occurs in Somalia and 

Ke nya. The main flowering period in Ethi opia is from 

August to October; sometimes also from January to 

February. 

13. Gladiolus sudanicus Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘sudanicus’ refers to the country, 

Sudan from where the collection of the type specimen 

was made. 

The species was described by Goldblatt in 1996 from 

a plant collected at the Nuba Mountain in the Sudan. 

The species can be confused with G. da lenii subsp. 

andongensis which also has red flowers. But it is clearly 

distingui shed from this subspecies by the shorter perianth 

tube (16–20 mm long) in contrast to (25–)35–45 mm 

long in G. dalenii. Further, the tepals are uniformly 

colored in G. dalenii, but with distinct yellow marks in 

G. sudanicus. 

Plant 15–20 cm high. Corms 10–12 mm in diameter. Foliage leaves 

4–5, lower narrowly lanceolate to linear and about as long as stem, 

5–9 mm wide, uppermost smallest and partly to entirely sheathing. 

Stem simple, c. 1.5 mm in diameter at base of spike. Spike erect, 

2–3-flowered. Flowers red or pale to deep pink, lower 3 tepals 

each with a yellowgreen median streak outlined in red; perianth 

tube 16–20 mm long, arching outward and expanded above; tepals 

unequal, narrowly lanceolate, 3 upper 20–24 × 4–5 mm, 3 lower 

16–18 mm long and these joined to upper laterals for c. 3 mm. 

Filaments 10–12 mm long, exserted 2–3 mm from tube; anthers c. 

6.5 mm long, violet, with a short acute apiculus, 0.5–1 mm long.

Fig. 115. 

Gladiolus 

sudanicus, from 

Blue Nile gorge, 


region. 


distribution 

Gladiolus lithicola 


Style dividing opposite middle of anthers, branches c. 2 mm long, 

not exceeding anthers. Capsules and seeds unknown. 

The species grows in relatively arid land among shrubs 

in seasonally wet sites between 1000 and 1200 m in the 

Blue Nile Gorge in Shewa floristic region. It is further 

known from the Nuba Mountain in Kordofan, Sudan. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from August 

to September. 

14. Gladiolus lithicola Goldblatt 

The specific epithet ‘lithicola’ refers to the habitat of 

the plant, which literally means stone (lith-) dwelling 

(icola). The species was described by Goldblatt in 1996 

from a plant collected on the slopes of Mojjo River and 

south of Gara Muleta in the Harerge floristic region by 

Burger.

258 IRIDACEAE 

Description 


distribution 

Gladiolus murielae 

Description 

The species is the most distinctive of the indigenous 

species by its short inflorescences much shorter than the 

long droo ping leaves, by the relatively small pale mauve 

perianth, and by the short darkviolet stamens borne at 

the mouth of the perianth tube. 

Plant (8–)12–28 cm high. Corm 8–10 mm in diameter, with tunics of 

fine-netted fibres. Leaves 2–4, lowermost longest, 1.5–2.5 times as 

long as stem, blades linear, (2–)3–4 mm wide, uppermost smallest 

and with oblong blades or largely to entirely sheathing. Stem erect 

below, flexed outward above sheath of uppermost leaf, un branched. 

Spike (1–)2–3-flowered; bracts green, 15–30(–35) mm long, 

usually attenuate, inner about twothird as long as outer. Flowers 

bluishpurple (mauve), tepals evidently unmarked; perianth tube 

narrowly funnelshaped, c. 18 mm long; tepals lanceolate, unequal, 

dorsal and upper laterals c. 18 mm long, 3 lower c. 20 mm long. 

Filaments short, c. 6 mm long, included in tube; anthers c. 5 mm 

long, darkviolet, apices drawn into short acute appendages. Ovary 

oblong, c. 4 mm long; style arching over anthers, dividing at or 1–2 

mm beyond anther apices, branches c. 2.5 mm long. Capsules and 

seeds unknown. 

The species grows on steep rocky slopes and cliffs, 

between 2100 and 2750 m, in areas originally forested, 

but today largely cleared. It is only known from Gara 

Muleta in Harerge floristic region. The main flowering 

period is from August to October. 

15. Gladiolus murielae Kelway 

The specific epithet ‘murielae’ is named in honour of 

Muriel Erskine, the wife of the collector. 

The species was described by Kelway in 1932 from a 

plant collected from Ethiopia without precise locality by 

Erskine.The species is also known (and cultivated) under 

the name Acid an thera bicolor. 

Gladiolus murielae, G. candidus, and G. gunnisii are 

the only three species in Ethiopia with a perianth tube 

twice as long as the tepals. G. murielae is distinguished 

from the others by the white flo wers with prominent dark 

purple streaks and tepals 35–45 mm long. 


4–8, lower 3–5 basal, narrowly lanceolate, reaching at least to base 

of spike, sometimes slightly exceeding it, 5–12 mm at widest. Stem 

unbranched, 3–4 mm in diameter at base of spike. Spike often 

inclined, 3–5-flowered. Flowers white, with a prominent dark purple 

median streak, sweetly scented, particularly strongly in evenings;


distribution 

Gladiolus candicus 

Description 


distribution 


perianth tube cylindrical and straight, slightly wider near throat, 

(90–)120–150 mm long; tepals more or less equal, lanceolate, 

35–45 × 17–22 mm. Filaments exserted for 10–15 mm long. Style 

arching over stamens, dividing beyond anthers, branches c. 5 mm 

long, much expanded in upper half. Capsules oblongellipsoid, 


The species grows in the highlands in rocky, partly shaded 

places, on cliffs, rocky outcrops, and in forest margins 

between 1800 and 2400 m in Tigray, Gonder, Shewa, 

and Wellega floristic regions. It also occurs in Bu rundi, 

Tanzania, Malawi and Mozambique. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from July to September. 

16. Gladiolus candidus (Rendle) Gold blatt 

The specific epithet ‘candidus’ refers to the pure glossy 

white flowers. The species was described by Rendle 1895 

as Acid anthera candida from a plant collected in Athi 

Plains, Lanjaro in Kenya by Gregory. The name was later 

transferred to the genus Gladiolus by Goldblatt in 1995. 

G. murielae, G. candidus, and G. gunnisii are the only 

three species in Ethiopia with a perianth tube twice as 

long as the tepals. G. candidus is distinguished from the 

closely related G. murielae by the perianth tube commonly 

being 80–100 mm long, and the uniformly white tepals. 

G. murielae has a perianth tube that is 120–150 mm long, 

and the tepals have dark purple marks. 

Plant 20–40 cm high. Corm globose, 12–25 mm in diameter. Foliage 

leaves 2–3, all more or less basal, narrowly lanceolate, about half 

as long as stem, 5–10 mm wide. Stem erect, unbranched, c. 2.5 mm 

in diameter below first flower. Spike erect, 2–4-flowered. Flowers 

white (rarely pink), occasionally with purple median lines, sweetly 

scented; perianth tube (70–)80–100 mm long, more or less straight 

and cylindrical; tepals sub equal, broadly lanceolate to elliptic, (20– 

)25–30 × c. 15 mm. Filaments exserted for 10–15 mm long. Style 

dividing opposite anther apices, bran ches 5–7 mm long, often broad 

and fringed above. Capsules narrowly elliptic to obo vate, 18–22 

mm long. 

The species grows in woodland and dry grassland 

between 1450 and 2250 m in Arsi, Sidamo, Bale, and 

Harerge floristic regions. It also occurs in Djibouti, 

Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania and Oman.

260 HYPOXIDACEAE 

HYPOXIDACEAE 

Within the lilies in the wide sense, the Ethiopian 

representatives of Hypoxidaceae are unequivocally 

recognised by having more or less tuberous rhizomes 

and by being generally pubescent plants, with leaves 

in a threeranked basal rosette. The tepals are placed 

above the ovary, meaning the flowers are epigynous as in 

Amaryllidaceae and Iridaceae. The flowers are yellow on 

the inside, greenish and hairy on the outside, in a more or 

less racemose inflorescence, sometimes reduced to only 

one flower. 

The species in this family are herbaceous geophytes, 

storing nutrition in cormlike rhizomes, which can be 

interpreted as slowgrowing underground trunks. The 

efficient store organs make the plants able to sprout and 

flower shortly after the first rains. The rhizomes grow in 

the apical part, but are kept underground by conspicuous 

contractile roots. The leaves are linear to lanceolate, 

pubescent with simple and/or compound hairs. Old 

leaves die back in the dry seasons and are replaced by 

new ones produced successively through the growing 

season, inside the old ones and fibrous leaf remnants. The 

plants appear to be particularly adapted to survive heavy 

grassland fires, due to the well-protected subterranean 

parts with the apical meristem deeply hidden among old 

fire resistant leaf remnants. Inflorescences (sometimes 

only one-flowered) are produced continuously through 

the growing season from the axils of the successively 

produced leaves. The flowers, developing from the axils 

of small bracts (in Hypoxis) or large and leafy bracts (in 

Curculigo), are bisexual and star-shaped. The tepals, 3+3, 

are persistent, subequal and free. The stamens arise from 

the base of tepals and have rather short filaments fixed to 

the base of anthers (basifixed). The anthers release the 

pollen through lateral longitudinal slits (latrorse opening). 

The fruits are either capsules, opening by a lid or by three 

slits (in Hypoxis) or subterranean and berrylike, that is, 

with more or less succulent to membranaceous fruit wall, 

indehiscent and slowly disintegrating (in Curculigo).



Reproduction 


HYPOXIS 261 

Mature seeds are black to brownish, with a thick black 

(phytomelan) crust and copious fatty endosperm. 

The family is widely distributed in grasslands and 

woodlands in tropical and subtropical regions of all 

continents, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere, 

where it has a centre of diversity in South Africa. It 

includes 9 genera of which 2, Hypoxis and Curculigo, 

are represented in the Horn of Africa. Modern analyses 

indicated that the family is related to the orchids. 

The flowers do not display any sophisticated pollination 

adaptations, and lack nectaries. They tend to attract 

unspecialised insects that will get their reward in pollen. 

The flowers are slightly protandrous, meaning that the 

anthers mature before the stigma, a mechanism to avoid 

selfpollination. 

Most species in the genus Hypoxis have been shown 

to reproduce by apomixis, meaning that the embryos 

develop from unreduced egg cells. This mechanism 

leads to parthenogenesis, which genetically corresponds 

to cloning of the mother plant. Apomixis is rare in the 

tropics, becoming more common towards the Arctic 

(where pollinators are scanty), and will always create 

problems in defining the boundaries among the species. 

Without gene flow in the populations, more or less 

definable clones may behave as taxonomic entities, and 

the species concept becomes diffuse. 

1. Leaves without a petiole and not plicate; inflorescence most often with several 

flowers; ovary above the ground and situated directly below the tepals; fruit a 

capsule opening by slits or by a lid; seeds without a hook 1. Hypoxis 

- Leaves petiolate and plicate; inflorescence 1-flowered; ovary subterranean and 

separated from the tepals by a tube/beak; fruit berry-like, releasing the seeds 

by being eaten or by disintegrating in the soil; seeds with a conspicuous hook 

2. Curculigo


Reproduction 

1. HYPOXIS L. 

The rhizomes/corms, sometimes branched, have an 

inner core of vascular bundles intermingled with fibrous 

tissue, and an outer spongy storage area, crossed by 

numerous mucilage canals with yellowish or whitish 

sap, often darkening on exposure. The roots are stout 

and contractile, arranged in an equatorial zone on the 

rhizomes/corms, drying up at the end of each season, 

leaving distinct scars, a row of new roots being produced 

in a ring above the scars in the next season. The leaves 

are linear to lanceolate, acute; midrib and leaf margin 

always pubescent, sometimes also the lamina, often with 

different kind of whitish or yellowish hairs. The scapes 

are pubescent. The flowers are situated in racemose, 

corymbose, or spicate inflorescences, rarely solitary. 

They are subtended by small bracts. The pedicels are 

long or short. The ovaries have a short style and three 

distinct stigmatic zones lining the upper part of the style. 

The capsules open by a lid (pyxidal dehiscence) or by 

splits (loculicidal dehiscence). The seeds are subglobose, 

black, shiny and more or less papillate or brownish dull 

(due to folding of the waxy cuticula). 

Hypoxis is a large pan to subtropical genus. The 

few species that are diploid and sexual are easy to 

separate. Most species are, however, apomictic with 

high chromosome numbers, indicating hybridisation 

accompanied by chromosome doubling, and are difficult 

to separate. It is therefore problematic to assess the 

number of species. In the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea 

two ‘good’ species (diploid and sexual) were recognised: 

H. angustifolia Lam. and H. schimperi Baker. All the 

forms belonging in the polyploid apomictic complex 

were previously lumped into the Hypoxis villosa complex 

in the Flora. Since the publication of the Flora the genus 

Hypoxis has, however, been analysed in Southern Africa, 

and the name H. villosa L. will have to be restricted to 

a Cape species. In our treatment here we will therefore 

treat formerly de scribed apomictic taxa at the species 

level (‘microspecies’), but one must be aware that forms 

might be found that may not easily fit the species as they 

are delineated here. 

The pollination syndrome appears to be the same for both 

Hypoxis and Curculigo (see above). The Hypoxis species


use 


HYPOXIS 263 

that have capsules opening by a lid, have erect fruits and 

stiff erect scapes; traits characteristic of ballistic dispersal 

in that the seeds are held back on the mother plant until 

a strong push (by wind or animals) throws them out. The 

Hypoxis species with capsules opening by slits, have lax 

peduncles releasing the seeds on the soil surface close to 

the mother plant. Here the seeds require animals or water 

flushes for further dispersal. It is interesting to note that 

species with strong cuticular folding on the seed tend to 

release the seeds on the ground. It should be examined 

whether this particular seed coat structure might be of 

interest to small herbivores. 

Mucilage canals containing pectin compounds of 

mucopolysaccharides penetrate the tubers of Hypoxis. 

Steroid saponins (that is molecules resembling human 

hormones in structure) are also present. Species of the 

genus Hypoxis have recently been extremely popular 

in southern Africa (‘African potatoes’), as they are 

suspected to have an immunological effect, which 

might be of interest in connection with the HIV/AIDS 

epidemic. Reports tell that plants are collected in such 

large quantities to be sold at local markets, that they may 

go extinct in parts of South Africa and Zimbabwe. More 

studies are certainly needed. 

The species numbered 3 to 7 below, belong to an apomictic polyploid complex 

and might be difficult to identify. Hypoxis abyssinica is widespread on the 

Horn of Africa, the others are rather local and not sufficiently known. 

1. Slender plants; leaves linear, narrower than 0.5 cm; seeds dull, brownish, 

papillose, with cuticular folding on the papillae 2 

- Slender to robust plants; leaves linear to lanceolate, broader than 0.5 cm; 

seeds glossy, black, papillose or not, without cuticular folding on the papillae 3 

2. Inflorescence with (1–) 3–5 flowers; lower pedicel longer than 1 cm; tepals 

5–8 mm long; capsule turbinate, distinctly longer than broad when ripe, 

opening with longitudinal slits 1. H. angustifolia 

- Inflorescence with 1 (–2) flowers; all pedicels shorter than 0.5 cm; tepals 

7–10 mm; capsules conical, length about equalling the diameter in the apical 

part when ripe, opening with a lid 2. H. schimperi 

3. Slender plants, leaf width up to 0.3–2 cm, tepal length up to 10 mm long 4


- Robust plants, leaf width 1.5–2.5 cm, tepal length 10–15 mm 6 

4. Leaf width 0.5–2 cm, inflorescence with 2–5 flowers 5 

- Leaf width 0.3–0.5 cm, 1–2 flowers, rarely more, only known from the 

Negelle area 5. H. neghellensis 

5. Leaves more or less prostrate, up to 1 cm wide 3. H. abyssinica 

- Leaves more or less erect, 1–2 cm wide 4. H. boranensis 

6. Inflorescence with 2–6 flowers 6. H. tristycha 

- Inflorescence with more than 8 flowers 7. H. fischeri 

Hypoxis angustifolia 

Description 


distribution 

1. Hypoxis angustifolia Lamarck 

The species epithet ‘angustifolia’ refers to the narrow 

leaves (angustus = narrow, folium = leaf). It was described 

by the famous French naturalist, Jean Baptist La marck, 

based on material from Mauritius, as early as in 1789. It 

can be recognised by the long, slender grasslike leaves, 

the relatively small flowers on rather long pedicels, the 

fruits opening by longitudinal slits, and by the cuticular 

folding on the seed coat. The last trait is shared by H. 

schim peri, but the two species can easily be distinguished 

on the differing pedicel length (longer than 1 cm in H. 

angustifolia), tepal length (shorter than 8 mm), and 

capsule dehiscence (longitudinal slits). 

Grasslike plants from a corm 1–2.5 × 0.8–2 cm, whitish or yellowish 

inside. Leaves erect or lax, linear (10–) 25–35 × 0.2–0.7 cm, except 

for very early in the growing season always by far overtopping the 

flowers, covered by long whitish to yellowish hairs. Peduncle 3–12 

cm long. Inflorescence corymbose with (1–) 3–5 flowers; pedicels 

longer than 1 cm. Tepals.5–8 mm, anthers with an apical split. 

Capsule turbinate, distinctly longer than broad when ripe, thinwalled 

so that the seed contours are visible, loculicidal opening. 

Seeds with a special cuticular folding on the seed coat papilla, 

making them dull brownish. 

The species belongs in open woodland and bushland, 

but is most frequently found in treeless and seasonally 

swamped grassland, often heavily grazed, on blackish to 

reddish more or less heavy clayish soils between 1275 

and 2800 m. It is recorded from Gonder, Shewa, Bale, 

Sidamo, Kefa, and Wellega floristic regions. It is also 

widespread in Tropical Africa reaching Mauritius in the

Hypoxis schimperi 

Description 


distribution 

Hypoxis abyssinica 

HYPOXIS 265 

Indian Ocean. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from April to June, in the south flowers may, however, 

reappear in November. 

In the Flora of Tropical East Africa (WilandSzymanska 

& Nordal 2006) it was stated that the mainland African 

specimens of the species should be referred to a separate 

variety, var. luzuloides (Robyns & Tournay) Wiland, as it 

has turned out that the type specimen from Mauritius is 

lacking the typical cuticular folding of the seed coat. 

2. Hypoxis schimperi Baker 

The species is named after the Ger man collector of 

Ethiopian plants in the 19 th century, G.W. Schimper. It 

was described by Baker in 1878, based on material from 

the Gon der floristic region (‘Begemder’). The species is 

clo sely related to H. angustifolia, but has most often only 

one flower with somewhat larger flowers, tepals 7–10 

mm, shorter pedicels (up to 5 mm) and a capsule opening 

with a lid rather than with slits. 

Corm subglobose, 1.5–2 cm wide, often carrying a dense tuft of 

fibres. Leaves linear, 20–25 × 0.2–0.3 cm, almost glabrous, 1–2 

flowered, pedicels short, up to 0.5 cm; tepals 7–10 mm, capsule 

dehiscence by a lid. Seeds dull brown due to the special cuticular 

folding. 

The species grows in grassland valley bottoms with a 

high water table, between tussocks, but is also found 

in Podocarpus forest, often on black soils between 950 

and 2700 m: It is recorded from the Gonder, Shewa and 

Sidamo floristic regions. It is otherwise found in Eastern 

Africa south to Zimbabwe. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is in May. 

3. Hypoxis abyssinica Hochst. ex A.Rich. 

The species epithet refers to the older name for Ethiopia 

(Abyssinia). The species was discovered by Hochstetter 

and described by Richard in 1851, based on material 

from Mount Scholoda in Tigray. The most narrowleaved 

specimens within this form has often been confused with 

H. an gu stifolia, from which it differs in fruit and seed


Fig. 116. Hypoxis abyssinica. Above: Population 

sample from Shewa floristic region. All individuals 

fall within the three size classes shown, with no 

intermediates, indicating apomictic reproduction 

and no gene flow between classes. Right: plant 

from Wellega floristic region. 

Description 


distribution 

Hypoxis boranensis 

characters, but also by its slightly larger flowers and 

wider leaves. 

Fairly small plants with corms subglobose to cylindrical 1–6 × 1–4 

cm. Leaves, with strong ribs, almost recurving to almost prostrate, 

5–20 × 0.5–1.0 cm; indumentum whitish or yellowish, dense on 

margin and midrib, but also scattered on the lamina. Peduncles 

2.5–10 cm. Inflorescence racemose with pedicels of uneven length. 

Flowers (1–) 2–4, tepals 8–10 mm long. Fruit 5–7 mm long, seeds 

black and glossy, almost without papillae, c. 1mm in diameter. 

The species belongs in disturbed woodland and 

grassland, evergreen bushland, Eucalyptus plantations 

and mountain forest to the ericaceous belt up to 3100 m. 

It is endemic and widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. The 

main flowering period is from March to June and from 

August to November. 

4. Hypoxis boranensis Cufod. 

The species epithet refers to the Borana area in southern 

Ethiopia, from where this species was described by 

Cufodontis in 1939. It resembles H. abyssinica, but is

Description 


distribution 

Hypoxis neghellensis 

Description 


distribution 

Hypoxis tristycha 

Description 


distribution 

HYPOXIS 267 

more robust with longer, broader and more erect leaves 

(these differences might be related to the fact that H. 

bora n ensis is found in areas less disturbed and grazed 

compared to areas where H. abyssinica grows). 

Leaves 25–50 (–75) × 1–2 cm, and more erect leaves. Inflorescence 

2–5 flowered, with pedicels 1–2 cm long. Tepals 9–10 mm long. 

It is found in woodland and is probably endemic, recorded 

from the Shewa, Arsi, Sida mo, and Wellega floristic 

regions, possibly also in Eritrea. 

5. Hypoxis neghellensis Cufod. 

The species epithet refers to the township of Negelle 

in Sidamo, from where this species was described by 

Cufodontis in 1939. It resembles H. boranensis, but has 

so me what narrower leaves (up to 0.5 cm wide). 

Leaves 15–35 × 0.3–0.5 cm. Inflorescence 1–2 (–5) flowered. 

This species is found in dry grassland and in open 

Combretum woodland around Ne gelle in Sidamo between 

1500 to 1800 m. 

6. Hypoxis tristycha Cufod. 

The species epithet is Greek and refers to the leaves that 

are organised in three ranks. The species was described 

by Cufodontis in 1939 based on material from Mega 

in the Sidamo floristic region. H. tristycha resembles 

H. abys si nica, but is more densely pubescent and more 

robust in every quantitative trait. 

Corms c. 7 × 4 cm. Leaves falcate, in three ranks, c. 20 × 2–2.5 cm. 

Inflorescence 2–6 flowered with tepals 10–15 mm long. 

The species is only found in the Sidamo floristic region 

between 1800 and 2100 m.


Fig. 117. Hypoxis 

fischeri, from 


region. 

Hypoxis fischeri 

7. Hypoxis fischeri Pax 

The species was described on material from the Lake 

region of East Africa by Pax in 1893, in honour of the 

collector, Fischer. This taxon might include more than one 

apomictic form from Wellega floristic region. One form 

is many-flowered (up to 8 in a racemose inflorescence), 

has leaves together with the flowers and is covered by 

a dense yellowish indumentum; lower pedi cels up to 

2 cm and tepals c. 10 mm long. It comes close to the 

type of H. multiflora, described from Uganda which was 

sunk into H. fischeri in the Flora of tropical East Africa 

(WilandSzymanska & Nordal 2006). Another form has 

flowers appearing before the leaves and almost silvery 

indumentum, spi cate inflorescence with 10–15 flowers, 

and tepals up to 15 mm long. This form matches the type 

of H. fischeri Pax. More field studies are required to sort 

out the taxonomic problems.

Reproduction 

Curculigo pilosa 

CURCULIGO Gaertn. 

HYPOXIS CURCULIGO 269 

The rhizomes are elongated and vertical, narrower than 

what is common in Hypoxis, often branched, with fleshy 

and contractile roots scattered more or less evenly on the 

rhizome. The leaves appear slightly after the first flowers, 

and they are threeranked and petiolate with sheathing 

leaf bases; lamina linear to lanceolate, acute, plicate, 

prominently veined and sparsely pilose with mainly 

bifurcate to starshaped whitish hairs. The scapes are 

short, subterranean and most often completely hidden 

by leaf remnants. The flowers are subsessile, single, and 

supported by large leafy involucral bracts surrounding 

the cylindrical ovary. Between the ovary and the tepals 

a narrow cylindrical pilose structure, separating these 

organs, develops, thus pushing the tepals out of the 

leafy protections. This structure has been differently 

interpreted as a perianth tube or an ovary extension. The 

style is filiform to subulate with a capitate to slightly 

trifidous stigma. The fruits are indehiscent, more or less 

berry-like at maturity, crowned with the persistent ‘ovary 

beak’. The seeds are ellipsoidal with a hard, smooth, 

black, glossy seed coat, with a funicle expanded to form a 

prominent hook (the name Curculigo might be connected 

to this trait), plugged by a whitish tissue (‘strophiole’). 

The genus includes about 10 species in Tropical 

Africa, Asia and America. 

The pollination is undertaken by unspecialized insects. 

The seed dispersal of Curculigo is particular as they 

develop underground fruits and seeds. Digging animals 

must be responsible, but no observations are recorded. It 

is possible that the ‘strophiole’ may act as an elaiosome 

and attract ants or termites. The ovaries are protected 

during the development, and the ‘ovary beak’ has 

probably evolved to combine ovary protection with 

flower exposure. 

Curculigo pilosa (Schum. & Thonn.) Engler 

The species epithet refers to the indu men tum that covers 

the whole plant (pilosus=hairy). It was originally described 

on material from West Africa by Schumacher and


Description 


distribution 

Thonning in 1828, who referred it to the genus Gethyllis, 

which now is known to be restricted to South Africa. In 

1908 Engler transferred the species to its correct genus, 

Curculigo. Superficially it resembles Hypoxis species, 

but it is easily separated by the plicate leaves, the single 

flowered inflorescences and the subterranean ovary. 

Plants up to 25 cm long from a up to 8 cm long rhizome. Leaves 

0.3–2.5 cm broad, very short at early anthesis, elongating to 25 cm 

through the growing season, lamina sparsely pilose. Peduncle 0.5– 

1.5 cm long, hidden among cataphylls and leaf bases, subterranean. 

Flowers up to 2.5 cm in diameter, tepals 9–15 × c. 3 mm. Filaments 

2–4 mm long, anthers ca 3 mm. Ovary subterranean, up to 15 mm 

long, surrounded by bracts up to 2 cm long; ovary beak 2.5–5 cm. 

Fruits up to 3 cm long, seeds 2–3 mm long. 

This species is found in woodland or riparian forest, 

seasonally swampy, and seem to be favoured by frequent 

burning. It grows on black alluvium or on limestone 

between 5503000 m. It has been recorded from the Tigray, 

Gamo Gofa, Illubabor, Wellega and Harerge floristic 

regions. It is otherwise widespread in the tropical African 

savannah belt from West Africa to Zimbabwe. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from February to April.



Reproduction 

ERIOSPERMACEAE 

HYPOXIS CURCULIGO 271 

This family is unique by having seeds covered by long 

hairs. This trait is not found in other African lilies. It 

includes only one genus, which is distributed in sub 

Saharan Africa. The relationship of the family to other 

lilies is disputed, and it appears to be an isolated family. 

ERIOSPERMUM Jacq. 

The genus was described by Jacquin in 1796 and refers to 

the hairy seeds (erio = hair, spermum = seeds in Greek). 

The plants have prominent more or less globose tubers, 

which produce 1–3 leaves, the leaf bases forming a fibrous 

neck. The flowering stems are erect and lack leaves. The 

inflorescences are racemose carrying yellowish rather 

small flowers on long pedicels, supported by minute 

bracts. The 3 + 3 tepals are free and patent. The ovary is 

sessile and superior, developing into a capsule that opens 

with longitudinal slits, and containing 612 brownish 

seeds that are densely covered with long white hairs. 

There is only one other species in Ethiopia with yellow 

open flowers similar to those of Eriospermum, and that is 

Bulbine abyssinica, which differs by its distinctly hairy 

filaments. These are glabrous in Eriospermum. 

The genus includes about 100 species and has its centre 

of diversity in South Africa. Only two species reach 

Ethiopia, where they are rare. 

Little is known of pollination, but the flowers are visited 

by a wide range of insects, flies, small butterflies and 

beetles. Nectar is produced in glands in the walls of the 

ovary and is released in the bottom of the flower, where 

it is easily accessed. The seeds are effectively wind 

dispersed due to their small size, and by being covered 

with long hairs. South African species have been used as 

food and for different medicinal purposes.

272 ERIOSPERMACEAE 


1. Lower pedicel longer than 5 cm; leaf produced after flowering, 

leaf blade rigid with prominent nerves 1. E. abyssinicum 

- Lower pedicel shorter than 3 cm; leaves produced at the same time 

as the flowers, leaf blade flexible with inconspicuous nerves 2. E. triphyllum 

Eriospermum 

abyssinicum 

Description 


distribution 

Fig. 118. 

Eriospermum 

abyssinicum, 

from Tanzania. 

1. Eriospermum abyssinicum Baker 

As the species epithet indicates the species was first 

described from Abyssinia, sur prisingly as it is very rare 

and so far only recorded from Gonder, where Schwein 

furth collected it in the 1870s. The single stiffly erect leaf 

makes it easy to identify even in sterile condition. 

Tuber (sub)globose, 2–4.5 cm in diameter, crow ned with copious 

fibers. Leaf solitary, erect, lanceolate with a distinctly channelled 

petiole and with prominent nerves, 11–20 × 1–3.5 cm. Peduncle 

8–19 cm long, pedicels ascending. Tepals yellowish, 5–10 × 1–2.5 

mm. Capsules with three rooms, 6–9 × 6–7 mm. Seeds 4 × 2.5 mm 

covered with 5–7 mm long hairs. 

The species grows on rocky outcrops and open dry 

grassland. It flowers with the first rains and leaves are 

developed later. So far it is only known from Gonder 

floristic region in Ethiopia, close to the Sudan border. It 

is otherwise widely distributed in Africa west to the Ivory 

Coast and south to South Africa. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is in May.

Fig. 119. 

Eriospermum 

triphyllum, from 

Tanzania. 

Eriospermum 

triphyllum 

Description 


distribution 

2. Eriospermum triphyllum Baker 

ERIOSPERMUM 273 

The species epithet refers to the habit of having, most 

often, three leaves. It was described from Kenya by 

Baker in 1893. Cufodontis described a species E. heterophyllum 

from around Negelle in Sidamo (meaning with 

differently shaped leaves), which falls within the variation 

of the widespread E. triphyllum. 

Tuber (sub)globose, 1.5–4 cm in diameter, crow ned with copious 

fibers. Leaves 2–3 (–4) spreading, lanceolate without prominent 

nerves, 5–10 × 1–2 cm. Peduncle 2–11(–15) cm long, pedicels 

arcuate, 1–2.5 cm long. Tepals pale yellow, flushed red-pink outside 

with green midrib, 6–9 × 1.5–2.5 mm. Capsules with three rooms, 

8–10 × 8 mm. Seeds 3–4 × 2 mm covered with 7–8 mm long 

hairs. 

The species is found in open Com bre tum-Terminalia- 

Acacia woodland between 1600 and 1700 m. It is only 

found in Si damo floristic region, but it is otherwise 

widespread in East Africa. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from April to October.

274 DRACAENACEAE 



Reproduction 

Use 

DRACAENACEAE 

The family includes trees, sometimes very large, or 

shrubs with woody stems (Dracaena) or xerophytic 

herbs with rhizomes (Sansevieria). Leaves leathery 

to thickly succulent, generally crowded in terminal 

rosettes, sometimes in 2 opposite ranks, linear to ovate, 

sometimes cylindrical, often containing hard fibres. 

Inflorescence axillary, simple or bran ched, racemes or 

panicles, sometimes umbellike. Pedicels articulate, 

flowers solitary to densely crowded, often accompanied 

by minute bracts and bracteoles. The six tepals are fused 

at the base into a short or long tube. Stamens opposite the 

tepals, in serted at the throat, filaments usually somewhat 

inflated and spindle shaped, anthers versatile. The ovary 

is superior, cylindrical to bottle shaped, threelocular 

with a single ovule in each locule, style filiform, stigma 

capitate to 3lobed. Fruits usually a berry, globose to 

subglobose, 1-3seeded. Seeds globose or flattened. 

Dracaenaceae is mainly a tropical family, except one 

species, Dracaena draco, which is endemic for the 

Canary islands. The family includes 2 genera and 130– 

200 species. Both genera (Dracaena and Sansevieria) are 

represented in the flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea, Dracaena 

with 5 species and Sansevieria with 6. Some authors treat 

these genera as one, but they are kept separately in the 

Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea, which is followed here. 

Due to the strong fragrance emanating from the flowers 

during the evening, and the copious production of nectar, 

pollination by nocturnal animals is likely. 

A number of species of Dracaena and Sansevieria are 

used as ornamentals. Some species have variegated 

leaves. Some species of Dracaena produce commercially 

important resins which are often called Dragon’s blood.

Key to genera 

DRACAENA 275 

1. Plant a tree or shrub with a woody trunk 1. Dracaena 

- Plant a herb, without a woody trunk 2. Sansevieria 


1. DRACAENA L. 

The genus includes trees or shrubs with a more or 

less woody stem; usually with orange roots. Leaves 

sessile, linear to lanceolate. The inflorescence is a 

large panicle with 2 or more flowers in each floral 

bract. The flowers are white or pale green, fragrant 

and opening at night. The tepallobes are spreading or 

recurved. The stamens are slender or thickened. The 

fruit is a globose, coloured berry with 1–3 seeds. 

The genus includes about 80 or more species, 

mainly in Africa. It is represented by 5 species in the 

Flora area. 

1. Leaves oblanceolate, sometimes variegated in cultivated plants; flowers in 

conspicuous spherical multi-flowered heads 3. D. fragrans 

- Leaves sword or dagger-shaped; flowers variously arranged, not in 

multi-flowered heads 2 

2. Leaves distinctly succulent, about 1 cm thick at the base, margins minutely 

scabrid 4. D. ombet 

- Leaves much thinner, leathery, margins smooth 3 

3. Trees; fully developed leaves more than 80 cm long; ripe fruits dark 

purplish maroon 5. D. steudneri 

- Trees or shrubs; fully developed leaves not more than 70 cm long; 

ripe fruits orange 4 

4. Usually producing several stems from a common base; inflorescence 

erect, not reflexed; perianth up to 10 mm long 2. D. ellenbeckiana 

- Usually one main trunk and many branches; inflorescence sharply 

reflexed; perianth 15 mm long 1. D. afromontana


Dracaena 

afromontana 

Description 

Fig. 120. 

Dracaena 

afromontana, 

from Masha 

forest, Illubabor 


1. Dracaena afromontana Mildbraed 

The specific epithet ‘afromontana’ refers to the 

afromontane habitat in which the plant grows. The 

species was described by Mild braed in 1914 from plants 

collected in Central Africa. 

It differs from the related species, D. ellenbeckiana by 

the inflorescence, which is sharp ly reflexed, and by the 

longer perianth. 

Shrub or shrubby tree, sometimes straggling, 2–6(–10) m tall, main 

trunk up to 25 cm in diameter, branches arching, hollow when 

dry. Leaves shiny dark green, paler below, thinly leathery, daggershaped, 

15–30 × 1.5–3 cm, acute. Inflorescence hanging, sharply 

reflexed, c. 20–40 cm long, axis about 5 mm in diameter. Flower 

pedicels 4–12 mm long, articulated c. 2 mm below the flower. 

Perianth 15 mm long, white, palegreen or with purple tinge outside, 

somewhat translucent and showing a single rib; tube c. 1 mm long,


distribution 

Dracaena 

ellenbeckiana 

Description 

DRACAENA 277 

lobes 14 × 2–3 mm. Ovary obovo id, 4 × 2.5 mm; stigmalobes not 

well developed. Fruits orange, globose or two–threelobed, 12–16 × 

12–20 mm. Seeds dirty white, 6–9 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in moist undergrowth of montane 

forest, often along streams between 1750 and 2800 m 

in Tigray, Shewa, Harerge, Kefa, Illubabor and Wel lega 

floristic regions. It also occurs in east Africa, west to 

eastern Zaire and south to Malawi. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from January to April, and also from 

July to October. 

2. Dracaena ellenbeckiana Engler 

The specific epithet ‘ellenbeckiana’ was given in honour 

of the collector of the type specimen, Ellenbeck. The 

species was de scri bed by Engler in 1902 from a plant 

collected from Sheikh Hussein in Bale floristic region. 

It differs from the related species, D. afromontana by 

having erect inflorescence and shorter perianth 

Tree 3–8 m tall, usually producing several stems from a common 

base. Branches few, bark silvery gray showing a reticulate pattern of 

leaf scars, older stems longitudinally fissured. Leaves pale greyish 

green, up to 65 × 9 cm, acuminate. Inflorescence paniculate, erect, 

up to 80 cm long, with 2–3 racemose branches at each node, which 

Fig. 121. Dracaena ellenbeckiana, from between Mega and Megado, Sidamo 

floristic region.



distribution 

Dracaena fragrans 

Description 


distribution 

are up to 35 cm long; pedicels in fascicles (1–)2–7 together, up to 5 

mm long, articulate at the top, supported by narrow triangular bracts 

as long as the pedicel and up to 1 mm wide. Perianth white, fused at 

the base for 2 mm, lobes about 8 mm long, translucent with a single 

rib. Ovary bottleshaped, widest at the top; stigma very shal lowly 

3lobed. Fruit orangescarlet, globose to 3lobed, 8–9 × 9–14 mm. 

Seeds globular, brown, about 6 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in rocky outcrops and on escarpments, 

in Acacia-Combretum, Lannea and Combretum bushland 

on reddishbrown loamy soil between 1300 and 1350 m 

in Sidamo, Bale, and Harerge floristic regions. It also 

occurs in Uganda, Kenya, and possibly in Somalia and 

the Sudan. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

April to July. 

3. Dracaena fragrans (L.) Ker Gawl. 

The specific epithet ‘fragrans’ refers to the attractive 

aroma produced by the flowers. The species was 

described by Lin nae us and transferred to Dracaena by 

Ker Gawler in 1808. 

It differs from the rest of the species in the genus by 

having flowers arranged in multi-flowered heads. 

Rather weak shrubs, producing one to several whiplike stems, or 

branched trees, 1–15 m or taller, main trunk rarely more than 30 

cm in diameter. Leaves bright green above, paler below, colour 

uniform or variegated (usually in cultivated plants), strapshaped 

to narrowly oblanceo late, the widest part usually above the middle 

(12–)20-125(–150) × (1–)2–10(–12) cm, acute. Inflorescence 

simple or branched, erect to hanging, usually with a zigzag axis, 

(15–) 20–100(–160) cm long. Flowers arranged in well separated, 

multi-flowered, spherical, stalked or sessile heads; pedicels 2–5 mm 

long, articulated at the top. Perianth white with some purple tinges 

on the outside, (15–)17–22(–25) mm long, receptacle obconical 

l.5–3(–5) mm long; perianth tube (5–)8–10(–11) mm long, lobes 

(7–)9–11(–12) × 3 mm with a single rib. Ovary cylindrical to bottleshaped, 

2–3(–4) mm long; stigma 3lobed. Fruits orange, depressed 

globose, 11–19 mm in diameter. Seeds white, globose to beanshaped, 

4–14 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in forests between 1200 and 1750 m in 

Illubabor, Kefa and Wellega floristic regions, sometimes 

also planted as a hed ge. It is widespread in tropical 

Africa from Gambia and Ethiopia south to Angola and 

Mozambique. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from December to January.

Fig. 122. 

Dracaena 

fragrans, from 

between Godere 

and Bebeka, 

Illubabor floristic 

region. 

Description 

4. Dracaena ombet Kotschy & Peyritsch 

DRACAENA 279 

The specific epithet ‘ombet’ is a vernacular name of 

the species in the Bedani language of the Sudan. It was 

described by Kotschy and Pey ritsch in 1867. 

It differs from the rest of the species in the genus by 

having succulent leaves, about 1 cm thick. 

Tree (2–) 4–8 m tall, single trunk up to 40 cm in diameter, eventually 

branching into an umbrellashaped crown, bark pale brown showing 

a dense annular pattern of leaf scars. Leaves congested at the ends of 

branches, gray to bluegreen, up to 90 × 3 cm, very tough and thick, 

strongly red-brown tinged, upper surface flat to somewhat con cave, 

lower surface convex to obscurely keeled; margins cartilaginous. 

Inflorescence an erect panicle to about 50 cm long, lower branches 

paniculate, upper ones racemose, glabrous, subtended by a series of 

bracts; pedicels paired to clustered, about 2 mm long and articulate


Subspecies key 

Dracaena ombet 

subsp. ombet 


distribution 


subsp. schizantha 

Description 


distribution 

in the middle. Perianth white, 6 mm long including the 0.5 mm 

long tube. Ovary oblong; stigma shallowly 31obed. Fruits orange, 

globose, usually 1seeded, 1 cm in diameter. Seed globose, 6 mm 

in diameter. 

1. Leaf margin smooth; end branches of the inflorescence glabrous. a. 

subsp. ombet 

- Leaf margin scabrid; end branches of the inflorescence pubescent. 

b. subsp. schizantha 

a. subsp. ombet 

Tree up to 4 m tall. Leaves without a keel, crescentshaped 

in cross section; margins smooth; basal part only twice as 

wide as long. Inflorescence glabrous throughout. 

This subspecies differs from subsp. schizantha by the 

glabrous inflorescence. 

The subspecies grows in open Olea europaea forest 

on limestone, and in semidesert grassland whith 

scattered Acacia scrub, in Tigray and Afar floristic 

regions in Ethiopia, and along the Red Sea coast of 

Eritrea, between 800 and 2100 m. It also occurs in 

Egypt and the Sudan. Fruiting specimens have been 

collected in October. 

b. subsp. schizantha (Baker) Bos 

The subspecific epithet ‘schizantha’ refers to the deeply 

divided (schiz-) flowers (-anthus). The subspecies was 

descri bed as Dra cae na schizantha by Baker in 1877 from 

a plant collected from the Ahl and Serut mountains in 

Somalia by Hil de brandt. The species was later reduced 

to subspecies by Bos in 1997. 

It differs from the related subspecies, subsp. ombet 

by having pubescent inflorescences (mainly towards the 

tip). 

Tree up to 8m tall, old bark becoming very smooth, gray. Leaves 

generally narrow with a keel and rather triangular in cross section, 

margin distinctly scabrid, blade widened abruptly to a clasping base, 

3–4 times as wide as long. Inflorescence with smaller branches 

minutely pubescent. 

The subspecies grows in mountain slopes, in Acacia- 

Commiphora bushland on limestone, and also in evergreen 

bushland do mi nated by Buxus and Acokanthera between 

1000 and 1800 m in Sidamo, Bale, and Harerge floristic 

regions. It also occurs in Somalia, and possibly in Yemen. 

The main flowering period is from February to May.

Fig. 123. 


subsp. ombet 

from Tigray 


Dracaena steudneri 

Description 

5. Dracaena steudneri Engl. 

DRACAENA 281 

The specific epithet ‘steudneri’ was given in honour of 

the German collector, Steud ner, who collected the type 

spe cimen from Gonder floristic region. The species was 

described by Eng ler in 1895. 

It differs from the related species, D. ellenbeckiana 

and D. afromontana by the ripe fruits being purplish 

maroon. In contrast, D. ellenbeckiana and D. afro mon tana 

have orange ripe fruits. 

Shrub to tall tree up to 15(–25) m tall, trunk 20–45 cm in diameter, 

with leaf scars remaining visible. Leaves leathery, shiny, bright 

to dark green, swordshaped, up to 130 × 16 cm, base clasping, 

narrowing to 2–6 cm at 5–10 cm from the base, blade widest around 

the middle, upper part gradually tapering towards the acute tip,



distribution 

Fig. 124. Dracaena steudneri, in cultivation in Blantyre, Malawi. 


distribution 

margin smooth. Inflorescence initially erect, eventually bending in 

fruit, paniculate, up to 100(–200) × 70–150 cm wide with many 

perpendicular glabrous branches terminating in contracted multiflowered 

racemes, pedicels 2.5 mm long, articulated at the top. 

Perianth greenishwhite, 15 mm long including the 4 mm long 

tube, lobes translucent with a single rib. Ovary 3–4 × 2 mm. Fruits 

first bronze-coloured, later dark-purple to black-maroon with 

orange pulp, 15–20 × 15–30 mm. Seeds white, globose, 10 mm in 

diameter. 

The species occurs in relict forests and se condary forests 

between 1500 and 2000 m in Tigray, Gon der, Gojam, 

Shewa, Wellega, Kefa, Sidamo and Harerge floristic 

regions. It is often planted as an or na mental in gardens 

and parks. It also occurs in East Africa, west to eastern 

Zaire, south to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The main 

flo wering period in Ethiopia is from November to 

February.

Uses 

2. SANSEVIERIA Thunb. 

DRACAENA SANSEVIERIA 283 

Evergreen perennial plants with thick and creeping 

cylindrical rhizomes. Leaves sessile, in clusters or 2 

opposite ranks, erect or spreading, fleshy or thick and 

leathery, flat, channeled, half-cylindrical, cylindrical or 

laterally compressed, rigid, firm or flexible, often full 

of fiber. Inflorescence a raceme or panicle, simple or 

branched. Flo wers solitary or 2 or more in a cluster, on 

pedicels that are jointed near the middle or at apex, the 

upper part of which is falling off with the flower. The 

flowers are often fragrant, and remain open only one day 

or night. Perianth with a distinct tube and 6 narrow lobes 

that are usually rolled back or spreading. Stamens 6, with 

slender thread-like filaments and versatile anthers. Ovary 

trilocular, with one ovule in each locule; styles slender, 

threadlike, about as long as the stamens. Fruit a berry, 

containing 1–3 stony seeds. 

The genus includes about 50 species naturally 

occurring in the tropics and subtropics of the Old World, 

mostly in Africa. It is represented by 6 species in the 

Flora area and probably one or more introduced species 

cultivated in gardens and as pot plants. 

In many parts of Africa, the string is used for bows; hence 

the common name for the genus as ‘Bowstring Hemp’. 

A number of species are cultivated in various parts of 

the tropics for their valuable high quality fibers in terms 

of elasticity and strength. Among the known species in 

Ethiopia, S. ehrenbergii is harvested in large quantities 

followed by S. forskaoliana. Goats have been observed 

to browse on young leaves, while baboons, kudu and 

rhinoceros have been observed eating the older leaves. 

Species of this genus are used as indoor and outdoor 

ornamental plants both in the tropics and the 

temperate regions throughout the world, as they are 

easily propagated from cuttings. Usually the rhizomes 

are cut into pieces and planted. However, leaves which 

are planted whole or cut into small pieces also develop 

roots readily under moist conditions. Plants can also be 

grown from suckers or seeds.



1. Plants without easily seen aerial stems; leaves flat or if cylindrical, 

without a channel at the base 2 

- Plants with a short areal stem; leaves laterally compressed or 

cylindrical with a channel at the base 5 

2. Leaves cylindrical 3 

- Leaves flat or nearly flat 4 

3. Leaves solitary 3. S. fischeri 

- Leaves several together 4. S. erythraeae 

4. Leaves with acute, brown, apical points and red-brown margins 

6. S. forskaoliana 

- Leaves with soft green subulate points and green margins 5. S. nilotica 

5. Stem up to 10 cm high, branching at or near the ground, leaves channelled 

for about 2 cm at the base, otherwise cylindrical 2. S. phillipsiae 

- Stem up to 23 cm high, not branching, leaves laterally compressed, 

with a channel throughout their length 1. S. ehrenbergii 

Sansevieria 

shrenbergii 

Description 

1. Sansevieria ehrenbergii Schweinf. ex Baker 

The specific epithet ‘ehrenbergii’ refers to the German 

botanist Ehrenberg. 

The name was proposed by Schwein furth, and the 

species was formally described by Baker in 1875 from a 

plant collected in the Sudan. 

It differs from the related species, S. phillipsiae, by 

the leaves being laterally compressed and channeled 

throughout their length. In contrast, S. phillipsiae has 

leaves cylindrical and channeled only for about 2 cm 

from base. 

Xerophytic plants with stems up to 25cm tall, usually concealed by 

leaf bases. Leaves 5–9, crowded, 2ranked, erect or more or less 

spreading fanwise, up to 1m or more long, laterally compressed, 

with flattened sides, rounded on the back, tapering upwards, rather 

abruptly ending in a stout hard spinelike point about 2 cm long; 

margins reddishbrown, with white membranaceous edges which get 

wider than the rest of the leaf at the base. Inflorescence a panicle up 

to 2 m long, much branched in the upper ¾ of its length; branches up 

to 25 cm or more long, curved, ascending, the lower ones branched 

again, the upper ones simple. Flowers 4–7 in a cluster, pedicels 2–4


distribution 

Sansevieria 

phillipsiae 

Description 


distribution 


mm long; perianth purple to white, tube 5–6 mm long. Fruits green, 

spherical, turning orange at maturity. 

The species grows on rocky ground, under shade or in 

the open in Acacia-Com bre tum woodland between 400 

and 1100 m in Shewa, Kefa, Gamo Gofa, Sidamo and 

Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia, and in Eritrea. It 

also occurs in Arabia, Djibouti, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, 

and Tanzania. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from April to June. 

2. Sansevieria phillipsiae N.E.Br. 

The specific epithet ‘phillipsiae’ was gi ven in honour 

of LortPhillips who collected the type specimen from 

Somalia. The species was described by N.E. Brown in 

1913. 

It differs from the related species, S. eh ren bergii, by 

the leaves being cylindrical and channeled only for about 

2 cm from ba se. In contrast, S. ehrenbergii has leaves 

laterally compressed and channeled through out their 

length. 

Dwarf plants with short, c. 10 cm, erect stems branching at or 

above ground level, and forming irregular clumps. Branches c. 20 

× 1.5 cm, spreading on the ground and ultimately rooting, ending 

in a tuft of leaves; margin with a membranaceous white edge to 

a narrow brown border, withering to whitishbrown. Leaves 5–10 

together, slightly recurved, rigid, smooth, up to 45 cm long, channeled 

for about 2 cm at the sheathing base, otherwise cylindrical 

and gradually tapering to an acuminate apex with a spinelike tip; 

surface covered with minute, irregular transverse ridges, young 

leaves with paler bands, older uniformly dark green. Inflorescence 

a spikelike raceme about 46 cm long and minutely white mottled. 

basal part bearing 2–3 brown membranaceous, lanceolate bracts, 

1–3 cm long, acuminate at the apex. Flowers whi te, 2–6 in a cluster, 

upper clusters with fewer flowers than the lower; pedicel c. 3 mm 

long. Pe ri anth up to 40 mm long; tube up to 30 mm long, slender, 

cylindrical, not enlarged at the base; lobes linear, up to 20 mm long. 

Stamens 15 mm long. Ovary cylindrical, 3 mm long; style exserted, 

slightly longer than the stamens. 

The species grows in the shade of trees, Acacia, 

Commiphora, and Combretum, on sloping areas and 

along road sides between 1250 and 1450 m in Kefa, 

Gamo Gofa, and Harerge floristic regions. It also occurs 

in Somalia. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is in 

August.


Sansevieria fischeri 

Description 


distribution 

Sansevieria 

erythraeae 

Description 


distribution 

3. Sansevieria fischeri (Baker) Marais 

The specific epithet ‘fischeri’ was given in honour of 

Fischer, who collected the type specimen from East 

Africa. The species was described as Boo pha ne fischeri 

by Baker in 1898, and transferred to Sanse vieria by 

Marais in 1986. 

It differs from the related species, S. ery th raeae, in 

having solitary leaves. 

Plant without an aerial stem. Leaves solitary, erect, rigid; cylindrical, 

45–160(–240) × 2–5 cm, slightly tapering upwards; apex suddenly 

narrowed to a stout white spinelike tip; outer surface with 4–6 

furrows on the sides and back, which extend from base to apex, and 

a narrow concave channel all along above; surface slightly rough, 

marked with numerous closely placed transverse pale green bands, 

not always seen in older leaves. Inflorescence a spike-like raceme. 

Free parts of tepals 5–13 mm long, linear, obtuse; tube 20–50 mm 

long. Fruit not seen. 

Habitat unknown; but the only specimen seen was 

collected along a river in Bale floristic region. It also 

occurs in Kenya, Somalia and Tanzania. 

4. Sansevieria erythraeae Mattei 

The specific epithet ‘erythraeae’ refers to the fact that the 

plants in Palermo Botanic Gardens in Sicily, from which 

the species was described by Mattei in 1918, originated 

from Eritrean seed material. 

It differs from the related species, S. fischeri, in having 

6–8 leaves. In contrast, S. fischeri has solitary leaves. 

Plant without an aerial stem, growing in patches. Leaves 6–8 

together, irregularly arranged, cylin dri cal, pointed, erect, 40–50 cm 

long, with a short channel above and 5 furrows or grooves on the 

outside. Inflorescence a leafy raceme, almost as tall as the leaves; 

bracts membranaceous, ovatelanceolate, acute. Flowers in clusters 

of 3–5, whi te, sweet smelling; pedicel 7–8 mm long, slender. 

Perianth tube 5–7 mm, narrow; lobes linear, sub obtuse, revolute. 

Fruit not seen. 

The species grows along river sides in semiarid areas 

between 1200 and 2100 m in Eritrea. It probably also 

occurs in the Sudan.

Sansevieria nilotica 

Description 


distribution 

Sansevieria 

forskaoliana 

Description 

5. Sansevieria nilotica Baker 


The specific epithet ‘nilotica’ refers to the White Nile 

river, on the banks of which the type spe cimen was 

collected by Murie. The species was described by Baker 

in 1875. 

It differs from the related species, S. forskaoliana by 

the leaves being subu late at the apex and green at the 

margin. In contrast, S. forskaoliana has leaves which are 

acute at the apex and brown at the mar gins. 

Plant without an aerial stem. Leaves 2–3 toge ther, when well 

developed up to 125 × 4 cm, strapshaped, with margins quite 

parallel, narrowing above into a soft green subulate point up to 2 

cm long and gradually narrowing at the base into a deeply concave 

channel, smooth, conspi cu ously marked with numerous, narrow, 

closely pla ced, irregular, zigzag, transverse pale and dark green 

bars; margins green. Inflorescence a race me up to 200 cm tall. 

Flowers white, in clusters, 4–10 in the lower and 2–3 in the upper 

clus ters; pedicels up to 12 mm long. Perianth tu be c. 10 mm long; 

lobes c. 12 mm long, linear, subacute. Fruit not seen. 

The species grows in riverine forest, associated with 

Ficus vallis-choudae, Celtis sp., and Argomuellera 

macrophylla, between 900 and 1450 m in Illubabor and 

Kefa floristic regions. It also occurs in the Sudan, Uganda, 

and Central Africa. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from December to January. 

6. Sansevieria forskaoliana (Schult. f.) Hepper & 

Wood 

The specific epithet ‘forskaoliana’ was given in honour 

of Forsskål, who collected the type in North Yemen. The 

species was described as Smila ci na forskaoliana in 1829. 

The species was transferred to Sansevieria by Hepper 

and Wood in 1984. 

It differs from the related species, S. ni lotica, by the 

leaves being acute at the apex and brown at the margins. 

In contrast, in S. nilotica the leaves are subulate at the 

apex and green at the margin. 

Plant without an aerial stem; rhizome 2 cm or more in diameter. 

Leaves 1–2(–4) together, usually erect, firm, up to 100 × 9 cm, 

sometimes lon ger, lanceolate, acute, with a hardened apical point 

0.2 cm long or more, brown, fading to white later on, narrowed from



distribution 

the middle into a stout concavechannelled base, margins mostly 

wavy with hardened, 1 mm wide reddishbrown edges, rough with 

fine transverse ridges or entirely smooth on both sides; surface 

green, mott led and speckled whitish green or without markings. 

Inflorescence 95 cm or more high; peduncle 1 cm or more thick 

at the base, with 5–6 ova telanceolate, acute or acuminate sheaths 

on the lower half, and flower-clusters occupying the upper half. 

Flowers up to 4 in a cluster, pedicels up to 10 mm long. Perianth 

white. Fruit 6–13 mm in diameter (dried), 1–3seeded, pale to dark 

green ripening to orange or red. 

The species grows in a wide range of habitats in dry 

areas including rocky places, Com bretum woodland 

with tall grasses, riverine vegetation, between 550 and 

2000 m in Shewa, Illubabor, Gamo Gofa, Sidamo, Bale, 

and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia, and in Eritrea. 

It also occurs in Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, Sudan, and 

Congo. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

May to August.

ASPARAGACEAE 


The family consists of erect or scandent herbs, subshrubs 

or shrubs. The rhizomes are sympodial and the roots often 

swollen and fusiform. The leaves are normally reduced 

and scalelike, the assimilating function taken over by 

modified green branches (cladodes). In some genera, the 

branches are transformed into leaflike cladodes (phylloclades). 

The flowers are unisexual or bisexual, solitary 

assembled in racemes or umbel-like inflorescences. 

The perianth with 6 tepals in two series, are similar in 

shape, free or fused at the base, white, yellow or green. 

The 6 stamens are found both in unisexual and bisexual 

flowers,but are not functional in the female unisexual 

flowers. The ovary is superior, three-locular with 2-12 

ovules in each locule, in axile placentation. The styles are 

short with capitate or lobed stigma. The fruits are globose 

with 1–2(–3) black seeds. 

The family includes only one genus, Asparagus, 

with a controversial number of species (170–300), 

distributed throughout Africa and most of Europe, Asia, 

and Australia. The genus is divided in two subgenera: 

subgenus Asparagus and subgenus Myrsiphyllum. 

ASPARAGUS L. 

The genus includes erect or scandent branching shrubs 

or subshrubs. Spines are commonly present, rarely 

absent, when present these are formed from the reduced 

leaves. The cladodes are solitary or fascicled, subulate, 

more or less linear and the phylloclades are flattened. 

The phylloclades are bilateral and anatomically rather 

leaflike, while the cladodes are usually needlelike and 

radial, both types are supplied with several or one single 

vascular bundle. Three different kinds of spines are 

observed in Asparagus: indurated modified leaf stipules, 

as seen in all of the Ethiopian species, e.g. Asparagus 

africanus; the indurated pungent cladodes as shown in

290 ASPARAGACEAE 



Reproduction 

Use 

Conservation 

Key to subgenera 

A. horridus (not in Ethiopia), and the short spines from 

the main stem or on branches as shown in A. suaveolens 

from East and southern Africa. The inflorescences are 

axillary or terminal. The flowers are erect with stamens 

fused to the perianth segments. Ovary 2–3 locular with 

1–10 ovules in each locule. Fruit a berry, globose, usually 

red or white flushed purple when mature. 

Nine species in two subgenera are known to occur 

in Ethiopia and Eritrea, but two extra are included (A. 

aspergillus and A. buchananii) as they are found close 

to the border and are thus expected to occur in Ethiopia. 

Two species, A. officinalis L., a nonspiny plant with unisexual 

flowers and A. aethiopicus L. cultivar ‘Sprengeri’ 

(A. sprengeri Regel) characterised by the drooping, loose 

and spreading branches are known in cultivation. 

The flowers of many species are open and unspecialized. 

They produce nectar and sometimes a strong scent, which 

strongly suggests pollination by insects. But so far the 

pollination process has not been documented. The berries 

are certainly bird dispersed. 

The most commonly cultivated species for its edible 

young shoots is A. officinalis which is available in most 

supermarkets throughout the world. The species has 

been cultivated since ancient Greek times. Some species 

are cultivated as ornamental plants. 

Among the indigenous species, only one, A. leptocladodius 

is near-endemic, ocurring in Bale and Sidamo floristic 

regions in Ethiopia and adjacent areas in Kenya, Somalia, 

and Djibouti. None of the Asparagus species seem to be 

threatened so far. 

1. Cladodes subulate, linear or filiform; flowers usually erect, rarely pendulous; 

filaments free 1. subgen. Asparagus 

- Cladodes flattened, leaf-like (phylloclade); flowers pendulous; filament 

connivent, forming a tube around the ovary. 

2. subgen. Myrsiphyllum (12. A. asparagoides)

Key to species of subgenus Asparagus 

ASPARAGUS 291 

1. Flowers solitary or fasciculate 2 

- Flowers in racemose or umbel-like, condensed inflorescences 5 

2. Inflorescence axillary and/or terminal, 2–10 flowers in a cluster; perianth 

white; ovary 3-locular with 5–8 ovules in each locule 3 

- Inflorescence axillary, flowers solitary or 2 in a cluster; perianth pink, 

purple or white; ovary 3-locular with 1 ovule in each locule 4. A. flagellaris 

3. Young branches with ridges, scabrid; final branches and cladodes not in 

the same plane; cladodes subulate, thick; flowers axillary and/or terminal, 

3–10 together; berry 4–6 mm in diameter 4 

- Young branches without ridges, smooth; final branches and cladodes in 

the same plane; cladodes fine; flowers usually terminal, 2–3 together; berry 

7–10 mm in diameter 3. A. setaceus 

4. Terminal branches glabrous to puberulous, commonly without spines; cladodes 

3–12 mm long, rounded or angled, stiff; perianth segments 4–5 mm long 

1. A. africanus 

- Terminal branches glabrous and always with spines; cladodes 15–26 mm long, 

flattened or with grooves above, flexible; perianth segments c. 3 mm long 

2. A. scaberulus 

5. Cladodes subulate or only slightly flattened, 8–35 ×


9. Cladodes (25–)30–105 mm long, 2.5–5 mm wide, mid-vein distinct 5. A. falcatus 

- Cladodes 10–25 mm long, 0.5–2 mm wide, mid-vein indistinct 10 

10. Young branches smooth, not striated; Inflorescence simple racemes; outer 

perianth segments entire, not ciliate; fruit 5–7 mm in diameter 6. A. aridicolus 

- Young branches striated; inflorescence modified branchlets; outer perianth 

segments ciliate; fruit 9–10 mm in diameter 7. A. natalensis 

Asparagus africanus 

Description 


distribution 

Fig. 125. 

Asparagus 

africanus from 


region. 

1. Asparagus africanus Lamarck 

The specific epithet ‘africanus’ refers to the species 

being known from the African continent. The species was 

described by Lamarck in 1783 from plants collected in 

the Cape Region in South Africa by Sonnerat. 

This is one of the most common species and it is easily 

recognised by the rounded or angled stiff cladodes, the 

terminal branches commonly lacking spines and the 

fasciculate flowers with whitish tepals. 

Erect, scrambling or climbing or shrub up to 5 m. Branches glabrous 

to puberulous, terete to angled, with spines 3–5 mm long; terminal 

branches without spines. Cladodes fasciculate, 5–25, subulate, 

stiff, 3–10(–15) mm long. Flowers fasciculate, 2–10, axillary and 

terminal; pedicels 3–8 mm long, articulated below the middle. 

Bracts lanceolate, c. 1.5 mm long, falling off quickly. Perianth white, 

± equal, 4–5 mm long, entire. Stamens shorter than the perianth; 

anthers yellow. Ovary 3locular with 6–8 ovules in each locule, with 

a 1 mm long 3branched style. Berry red, 5–6 mm in diameter, oneseeded. 

Seeds c. 4 mm in diameter, smooth, with reticulate surface. 

The species grows in Acacia woodland, secondary forest 

and forest margins (and as hedgerows) between 1450 and

Asparagus scaberulus 

Fig. 126. 

Asparagus 

scaberulus from 


region. 

ASPARAGUS 293 

3800 m, and it is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It 

is also common from the Sudan and Somalia to South 

Africa, and occurs in Arabia to India. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from February to May, also from 

October to December. 

2. Asparagus scaberulus A. Richard 

The specific epithet ‘scaberulus’ refers to the short curved 

spines on the surface of the branches that are rough to 

touch. The species was described by A. Richard in 1851 

from plants collected in Tigray floristic region by the 

French collector, QuartinDillon. 

The species is related to the widespread A. africanus, 

but easily distinguished by the flexible longer cladodes,


Description 


distribution 

Asparagus setaceus 

Description 

the terminal branches with spines, and flowers with 

smaller sized white tepals (c. 3 mm long). 

Erect to climbing shrub to 2 m high. Branches glabrous, terete, 

smooth or lined with spines 1–3 mm long, curved downwards, 

seen also in the terminal branches. Cladodes fasciculate, 2–25(–35) 

together, flexible or straight, 13–26 mm long, flattened, angled, 

sometimes forming grooves on the upper side. Flowers fasciculate, 

3–6 together, axillary or terminal; pedicel 5–8 mm long, articulated 

at the middle or below. Tepals white, c. 3 mm long. Stamens shorter 

than the perianth; anthers yellow. Ovary 3locular with 5 ovules in 

each locule; style 1 mm long with 3 branched stigma. Bracts ovate, 

c. 1 mm long, membranaceous. Fruit 4–5 mm in diameter with one 

seed 

The species grows in Acacia-Commiphora woodland, 

between 400 and 1500 m in Tigray, Gonder, Kefa, Gamo 

Gofa, Sida mo, and Bale floristic regions in Ethiopia and 

in Eritrea. It also occurs in Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, and 

Arabia. The flowering period in Ethiopia is from February 

to June; sometimes also from October to December. 

3. Asparagus setaceus (Kunth) Jessop 

The specific epithet ‘setaceus’ refers to the bristlelike 

fine cladodes. The species was described by Kunth in 

1850 as Aspara gopsis setacea from a collection made in 

South Africa by Drege. It was transferred to the genus 

Asparagus by Jessop in 1966. It is also known by the 

name A. plumosus. 

The species is easily recognised by the fine bristle-like 

cladodes which are arranged in one plane. However, it 

can sometimes be confused with A. africanus, from which 

it is distinguished by the shorter perianth segments c. 3 

mm long and the larger berry, 7–10 mm long. In contrast, 

A. africanus has longer perianth segments, 4–5 mm long 

and a smaller berry, 4–6 mm in diameter. 

Climbing shrub to 6 m high. Branches 4x branching, glabrous, terete 

or grooved with spines 2–7 mm long, mainly on the main branches; 

terminal branches resemble a short stalk, where the flowers are 

borne. Cladodes fasciculate, 3–25 together, linear, fine, 3–10 mm 

long; final branches and cladodes arranged in the same plane. 

Flowers solitary or fasciculate, 2–3 together on terminal branches 

(rarely some flowers seen also in an axillary position); pedicels 3–8 

mm long, articulated at the middle or below. Bracts minute, falling 

more or less quickly. Perianth segments white, ± equal, c. 3 mm long. 

Stamens shorter than the perianth; anthers yellow. Ovary 3locular,

Fig. 127. 

Asparagus 

setaceus, 

cultivated plant, 

Addis Ababa. 


distribution 

Asparagus flagellaris 

ASPARAGUS 295 

with 6–8 ovules in each locule; style 1 mm long, 3branched. Fruit 

red, 7–8(–10) mm in diameter, with 1–3seeds. 

The species grows in forests and forest margins between 

500 and 2400 m in Shewa, Bale, Kefa, Illubabor and 

Wellega floristic regions, in areas with relatively high 

rainfall. The species also occurs through eastern Africa 

south to South Africa. In Ethiopia the species flowers 

almost throughout the year, but mainly from January to 

May and from September to December. 

4. Asparagus flagellaris (Kunth) Baker 

The specific epithet ‘flagellaris’ refers to the whiplike 

(flagellum) cladodes. The species was described by 

Kunth in 1850 as Asparagopsis flagellaris from plants 

collected in Senegambia. It was transferred to Asparagus 

by Baker in 1875. The species has also been known under 

the names A. schweinfurthii and A. abyssinicus. 

The species is easily recognised from other species in 

the area by the purplish stems with hooked spines, and the 

solitary or paired white flowers with a purplish tinge.


Fig. 128. Asparagus flagellaris, (left) vegetative plant from Wellega floristic 

region, (right) flowering specimen. 

Description 


distribution 

Asparagus falcatus 

Erect shrub to 2 m high. Branches glabrous, terete or grooved, 

smooth to lined with spines 2–4 mm long, straight or curved, seen 

also on terminal branches. Cladodes fasciculate, 1–8 together, 

subulate, stiff, 5–20(–60) mm long. Flowers axillary, solitary 

or paired; pedicels 5–10 mm long, articulated below the middle, 

sometimes near the base. Perianth white to purple (pink), ± equal 

2.5–3 mm long. Stamens shorter than the perianths. Ovary 3locular 

with 1–2 ovules in each locule; style c. 1 mm long, slender and 

3branched stigma. Fruit orange red, 5–7 mm in diameter with 1 

(sometimes 3) seeds. Seeds black, rounded, rugose. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commi pho ra, Combretum- 

Terminalia, and Teclea-Aco kan thera woodland between 

650 and 1800 m in Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, Wellega, 

Illubabor, and Sidamo floristic regions in Ethiopia and in 

Eritrea. It also occurs in Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, 

Tanzania, Zaire, Central African Republic to W. Africa. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from January to 

June and from October to December. 

5. Asparagus falcatus L. 

The specific epithet ‘falcatus’ refers to the curved or 

sickleshaped cladodes. The species was described by 

Linnaeus in 1753 from a plant collected in Sri Lanka 

(Ceylon) by Burmann. 

The species is easily recognised from the related 

species, A. aridicola, by the thin and flexible cladodes

Description 


distribution 

Asparagus aridicola 

Description 

ASPARAGUS 297 

with a midvein. In contrast, A. aridicola has cladodes that 

are rigid and without a midvein. 

Climbing shrub to 4 m long or more. Branches glabrous with 

smooth, terete to angled stem. Spines 1–12 mm long, recurved, seen 

also on the terminal branches. Cladodes fasciculate, 3–6 together, 

flattened, straight or falcate, with a distinct mid-vein, (15–)25–90 

mm × 2–4 mm. Inflorescence racemose, 1.5-5 cm long, solitary 

or fasciculate, 2–4 together, glabrous, unbranched; pedicels 3–3.5 

mm long, articulated at the middle or above. Perianth parts broadly 

elliptic or obovate, c. 3 mm long, white to cream or yellowish. 

Stamens shorter than the perianth; anthers yellow. Ovary 3locular 

with 6 ovules in each locule; style short, c. 0.5 mm long including 

the stigma. Berry red or white flushed purple, about 7 mm in 

diameter with 1–3 seeds. 

The species grows in forest edges between 1200 and 

1310 m in Kefa floristic region. The species also occurs 

in Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, south to South Africa, and 

in Asia. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

September to October. 

6. Asparagus aridicola Sebsebe 

The specific epithet ‘aridicola’, meaning arid dwelling, 

refers to the dry climate where the species grows. It is 

described formally in the Flora of Tropical East Africa 

in 2004. In the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea (1997) the 

species was referred to A. fal catus var. ternifolius (Baker) 

Jessop. 

The species is easily recognized from the related 

species A. natalensis by the simple raceme inflorescesnce, 

pedicels articulated above the middle, below the perianth 

and outer perianth segments entire at the margin. In 

contrast, in A. natalensis, the inflorescence is a modified 

branchlet, pedicels articulated below the middle and 

outer perianth segments ciliate at the margin. 

Climbing or scandent shrub to 2.5–3 m high. Branches glabrous 

to puberulous, angled when young, becoming terete with age, with 

spines below the cladodes, 3–7 mm on main branches and c. 1 mm 

long on terminal branches. Cladodes solitary or fasciculate, 2–6 in 

a cluster, 15–25 × 1–3 mm, acute at the apex, attenuate at the base. 

Inflorescences 1.5–15 cm long. Flowers in fascicles of 2–6 flowers. 

Pedicel 3–14 mm long articulated above or below the mid. Perianth 

white, c. 3 mm long, smooth to ciliate at the margin. Stamens 

included in the perianth. Ovary 3locular with 4–6 ovules in each 

locule. Fruit red, globose 7–9 mm in diameter, with one seed.


Fig. 129. 

Asparagus 

aridicola, from 


region. 


distribution 

Asparagus natalensis 

The species grows in AcaciaCommi pho raCombretum 

woodland, wooded grassland, mixed deciduous woodland 

on sandy soil and limestone between 1100 and 1900 m in 

Gamo Gofa, Sidamo, and Harerge floristic regions. It also 

occurs in tropical Africa south to South Africa, and from 

Arabia to India.The main flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from April to June and also from October to December. 

7. Asparagus natalensis (Baker) Fellingham & 

N. L. Mey. 

The specific epithet ‘natalensis’ refers to Natal, in South 

Africa, from where the type of the species was collected 

by Medley Wood. The taxon was first described by Baker 

as a variety of Asparagus aethiopicus L. in 1896. 

The species is easily recognized from the related 

species A. aridicola by the inflorescence being a modified 

branchlet, pedicels articulated below the middle and outer 

perianth segments ciliate at the margin. In contrast, in 

A.aridicola the inflorescence is simple raceme, pedicels 

articulated above the middle, below the perianth and 

outer perianth segments entire at the margin. 

A. aridicola is related to A. natalensis. However, 

A. aridicola is distinguished by the simple raceme 

inflorescesnce, pedicels articulated above the middle, 

below the perianth and outer perianth segments entire at 

the margin. In contrast, in A. natalensis, the inflorescence 

is a modified branchlet, pedicels articulated below the 

middle and outer perianth segments ciliate at the margin.

Fig. 130. Asparagus natalensis, from Mega, Sidamo floristic region. 

ASPARAGUS 299 

Description Plants climbing or scandent shrub to 2.5–3 m high. Branches 

glabrous to puberulous, striated when young. Spines 5–8 mm 

on main branches; spinules below the flowers 1–4 mm long. 

Cladodes solitary, or fasciculate 2–6 in a cluster, 15–25 × 1–3 mm. 

Inflorescences (modified flowering branchlets often with cladodes 

or compound racemes), 1.5–15 cm long. Flowers in fascicles of 2–6; 

pedicel 3–4 mm long, articulated in the middle or below. Perianth 

white to cream, c. 3 mm long, outer segments ciliate at the margin. 

Fruit globose, 9–10 mm in diameter, red, 1seeded. 


distribution 

The species occurs in open Acacia-Commiphora 

woodland, mixed deciduous woodland with species 

of Acacia, Tarchonanthus camphoratus and Barbeya 

oleoides, edge of evergreen scrub between 1100 and 1900 

m. It is recorded from Gamo Gofa, Sidamo and Harerge 

floristic regions. It is otherwise found in Somalia, Kenya, 

Uganda extending to Natal in South Africa. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from February to May and 

also possibly in October to December.


Fig. 131. Asparagus racemosus, from Bale floristic region. 

Asparagus racemosus 

Description 


distribution 

8. Asparagus racemosus Willdenow 

The specific epithet ‘racemosus’ refers to the racemose 

inflorescence. The species was described by Willdenow 

in 1799 from material he had collected in India. The 

species is distinguished from other indigenous species 

with racemose inflorescences by the elongate lax 

racemes, 1.5–10 cm long, and by the persistent flowers 

on the pedicels that are articulated in the mid or below. 

Climbing shrub to 7 m high. Branches terete, lined or angled, 

glabrous with spines 2–3 mm long in young parts, to 5–8 mm long 

in older. Cladodes fasciculate, 2–6 together, subulate to flattened, 

8–35(–40) × 0.5–0.7 mm. Inflorescence racemose 1.5–17 cm long, 

glabrous; racemes solitary or fascicled; pedicel 4–6 mm long 

(elongating to 10 mm long in fruit), articulated at the mid or below. 

Bracts ovate, concave, 2.5– 4 mm long, glabrous, membranous, 

sometimes falling quickly. Perianth greenish white to white, (3–)4– 

5 mm long. Stamens shorter than the perianth parts; anthers orange 

to red. Ovary obovate 3locular, 6–7 ovules in each locule; style c. 

1 mm long with a 3branched stigma. Fruit green, turning red at 

maturity, 8–10(–13) mm in diameter, commonly with one, rarely 

2–3 seeds. 

The species grows in forests, valley bottoms, and along 

streams, between 1350 and 3100 m in Tigray, Gonder, 

Gojam, Kefa, Shewa, Arsi, Wellega, Sida mo, Bale, and

Asparagus 

leptocladodius 

Description 

ASPARAGUS 301 

Harerge floristic regions in Ethi opia and in Eritrea. It 

also occurs in the Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, 

Mozambique, Angola, and Asia. The main flowering 

period in Ethiopia is from October to December and also 

occasionally in June. 

9. Asparagus leptocladodius Chiovenda 

The specific epithet ‘leptocladodius’ refers to the slender 

(lepto-) shoots (cla dus). The species was described by 

Chio venda in 1940 from plants collected at Mt. Ellot in 

Bale floristic region by Reghini. It is easily distinguished 

from related species with racemose inflorescence by the 

flowering bran ches without cladodes; by the umbellate, 

condensed, 1–2.5 cm long race mes, and by the flowers 

easily falling off the pedicels, which are articulated in the 

mid or below. 

Erect or scandent shrub to 2 m high. Branches glabrous to 

puberulous, terete, white with erect spines 4–12 mm long. Cladodes 

fasciculate, 2–15 together, flattened, arcuate, 10–60 mm long, 

triangular. Raceme 0.5–2 cm long, often condensed and reduced, 

giving impression of an umbel. Pedicel 5–6 mm long, articulated in 

the middle or below. Bracts ovate, 1–1.5 × 0.5 mm, white, falling 

quickly. Perianth white, ± equal, 3–4 mm long. Stamens shorter 

than the perianth; anthers black. Ovary 2–3locular with 6–8 ovules 

Fig. 132. Asparagus leptocladodius, from near Sof Omar, Bale floristic 

region.



distribution 

Asparagus 

aspergillus 

Description 


distribution 

in each locule; style 0.3–0.7 mm long with 2–3branched stigma. 

Fruit red, 6–9 mm in diameter with one seed, black, 4–5 mm in 

diameter. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commiphora woodland 

between 1500 and 1620 m in Sidamo and Bale floristic 

regions. It also occurs in Kenya, Djibouti, and Somalia. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from October 

to December. 

10. Asparagus aspergillus Jessop 

The specific epithet ‘aspergillus’ refers to the brushlike 

cladodes similar to the brush used for spraying water in 

the RomanCatholic Church, a name that also is used for 

a microscopic fungus which produces spores in brushlike 

structures. The Latin word, ‘asper gere’ means in fact 

to ‘spray liquid’. The species was described by Jes-sop in 

1966 from plants collected in Transvaal in South Africa. 

The species resembles A. racemosus, but is easily 

distinguished by the articulation of the pedicel at the 

apex, by the anthers being black at maturity, and by the 

2–3 mm long perianth. It also resembles A. buchananii 

in having a simple raceme, solitary pedicels which are 

articulated above the middle or just below, but it is easily 

distinguished by its young bran ches being grey, scabrid 

to puberu lous, by their pedicels being 1.5–2.5 mm long; 

and by the black anthers. 

Climbing or erect herb or shrub to 2 m. Branches glabrous to scabrid, 

pale grey, with spines 8–10 mm long on main branches, 3–4 mm 

long on terminal branches. Cladodes fasciculate, subulate, 10–20 

mm long and

Asparagus 

buchananii 

Description 


distribution 

Asparagus 

asparagoides 

11. Asparagus buchananii Baker 

ASPARAGUS 303 

The specific epithet ‘buchananii’ is given in honour of the 

collector, Mr Buchanan from whose collection the type 


by Baker in 1893 from a plant collected from Malawi. 

It resembles A. aspergillus on account of having a 

simple raceme, solitary pedicels which are articulated 

above the middle or just below, but easily distinguished 

by the young branches that are pale brown, glabrous, 

smooth; pedicels 2–5 mm long; ovary with style c. 0.5 

mm long and anthers cream to yellowish. 

Climber, commonly to 5 m high or sometimes longer. Branches 

glabrous, pale brown, smooth, shiny with spines on main branches 

1–4 cm long, dorsally flattened towards the base. Cladodes 

fasciculate, 3–5 together, subulate, 10–17(–27) mm long. Bracts 

ovate, 0.5–2 mm long. Racemes solitary or in fascicles of 2–3, 1.5– 

4 cm long, glabrous; pedicels solitary or 2 together, 2–5 mm long, 

articulated at the apex or sometimes at the middle. Perianth white to 

cream, elliptic to obovate, 2–3 mm long. Stamens shorter than the 

perianth parts; anthers yellow. Ovary 3locular, obovate with 6–8 

ovules in each locule; style c. 0.5 mm long with 3branched stigma. 

Fruit red, c. 5 mm in diameter, 1–2seeded. 

Asparagus buchananii is found in forest or wet savanna. 

It occurs in southern Sudan, northern Kenya, northern 

Uganda to South Africa, and Angola. The species is 

not yet recorded within Ethiopia, but due to its wider 

distribution in the region and its occurrence in Southern 

Sudan, not far from the Ethiopian border, it is expected to 

occur in Kefa, floristic region in SW Ethiopia, and hence 

it is included here. 

12. Asparagus asparagoides (L.) Wight 

This species is called ‘Smilax of florists’ in English. The 

specific epithet ‘asparag o ides’ refers to its resemblance 

or similarity to the genus Asparagus, as the species was 

first described under a separate genus, Medeola. The 

species was described by Linnaeus in 1753 as Medeola 

aspara g oides from a plant cultivated in Horti Pisani. 

Later it was transferred to the genus Asparagus by Wight 

in 1909. 

It is distinguished from other species of the genus 

by the characteristic flattened, leaf-like cladodes


Description 


distribution 

(phylloclades), pendulous flowers on long pedicels and 

connivent filaments that form a tube around the ovary. 

Climbing or suberect annual herb to 3 m high. Branches glabrous, 

terete or angled, without spines. Cladodes broadly ovate to 

lanceolate, 1.2–4.5 × 0.7–2.7 cm acute at the apex, rounded at the 

base, with numerous (>15) parallel lateral veins. Racemes solitary 

or 2 together; pedicel 5–22 mm long, articulated above the middle 

or near to the base of the perianth. Bracts ovate, membranaceous, 

c. 3 mm long. Perianth greenish white, 5–6 mm long with purplish 

veins. Stamens 6, c. 6 mm long, shorter than the perianth, with 

white filaments and orange anthers. Ovary 3-locular with 4–6 

ovules in each locule; style 2–3 mm long without distinct stigma 

lobes (not branched). Fruit red, globose, 6–10 mm in diameter, up 

to 8seeded. 

The species grows in secondary scrub and in dry juniper 

forest and in gallery forest between 1900 and 2480 

m in Kefa and Sidamo floristic regions. It also occurs 

in tropical Africa and extends to the warmer parts of 

Europe. In recent years it has become naturalised in 

Australia. The common flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from January to June, also in October to December.



DIOSCOREACEAE 

ASPARAGUS 305 

The family includes twining or climbing, seldom erect, 

herbs arising from tubers most often derived from starchy 

rhizomes. The leaves are alternate or opposite, often 

ovate-cordate, but sometimes with 3–7 digitate leaflets. 

The inflorescences are spikes, racemes or panicles. The 

flowers are usually unisexual (very rarely bisexual). 

There are 6 perianth segments. Stamens 3 + 3, but the 

inner ones sometimes reduced. The ovary is inferior, 

rarely semiinferior or superior, 3locular, with axile 

placentation. The fruit is a dehiscent capsule or berry 

with winged seeds. 

Dioscoreaceae is a mainly tropical family, including about 

7 genera, with the greatest diversity in central and south 

America, IndoMalaysia, Micronesia and Madagascar. 

Representatives occur also in Europe and Africa, but the 

diversity here is lower. Only one genus, Dioscorea, is 

represented in tropical Africa. 

DIOSCOREA L. 

The genus includes twining or climbing herbs, often 

prickly below where browsers have access, but 

sometimes unarmed. The flowers are unisexual and the 

plants unisexual (dioecious). The male inflorescences are 

spicate, racemose or rarely cymose, axillary or forming 

panicles at the ends of leafless branches; male flowers 

with campanulate to spreading tepals, and with six 

stamens, either all fertile or 3 reduced to stami nodes. The 

female inflorescences are spicate and axillary; female 

flowers with tepals similar to the male ones. The capsules 

are triangular or deeply threelobed dehiscing with 3 

valves, and with 1–2 seeds in each locule. The seeds are 

winged or rarely wingless. 

The genus includes c. 600 species, occurring mainly in

306 DIOSCOREACEAE 

Use and 

chemistry 

Conservation 

the Old and New World Tropics; many species in tropical 

Asia, and with c. 10 species in Ethiopia and Eritrea. 

Several species of Dioscorea are used as a staple food 

in the tropics. These tubers are commonly known as 

‘Yams’. There has been a developed culture in the 

domestication of several species in tropical Africa, Asia 

and America. The major species that are used as food 

worldwide are: D. alata L., D. esculenta (Lour.) Burkill, 

and D. cayenensisD. rotundata complex. At least 20 

others are used as food in times of famine, and also for 

medicinal purposes. 

A number of species are known to accumulate large 

quantities of steroidal saponins in their tubers and 

rhizomes. These have been used by the pharmaceutical 

industry to develop semisynthetic corticosteroids and 

other sex hormones such as ppills. 

Recent studies made on the Dioscorea species in western 

Ethiopia have revealed that the peoples of southern and 

western Ethiopia have a strong tradition in cultivating 

and domesticating various species with a wide genetic 

base. Only one of the species, D. gil let tii, is a nearendemic 

occurring in south and southeastern Ethiopia 

and northern Kenya, bordering Ethiopia. The remaining 

species are nonendemic. Some of the species such as D. 

cayenensis-D. rotundata complex occur both in the wild 

and in cultivation, and others such as D. abyssinica, D. 

dumetorum, D. cochleari-apiculata, D. quar tiniana and 

D. schimperiana, occur only in the wild. The removal 

of vegetation cover by human activities (for agricultural 

expansion and settlement) undoubtedly reduces the 

genetic bases of these important cultivated and semicultivated 

crops, leading to genetic erosion. Hence the 

habitat in which these species occur should be protected. 

Due to the difficulty in identifying the species, two types 

of keys are constructed using male and female flowers 

separately.

Key to plants with male flowers 

DIOSCOREA 307 

1. Stems twining to the left (sinistrorse i.e. clock-wise); leaves simple or 

compound 2 

- Stems twining to the right (dextrorse i.e. anti-clockwise); leaves simple 6 

2. Leaves compound 3 

- Leaves simple, entire 5 

3. Plants unarmed; leaflets (1–) 3–5(–7); inflorescence in catkins; 

bracts embracing the flower; stamens 3, staminodes 3 1. D. quartiniana 

- Plants with stem spines; leaflets 3; inflorescence in much-branched panicles 

of dense spikelets formed by cymules of 2–6 flowers; bracts embracing the 

cymules; stamens 6, at least in the first flower of the cymules 4 

4. Leaflets usually 3-nerved; ultimate spikelets of inflorescence 5–10(–15) 

mm long, subsessile or on peduncles up to 5 mm long; perianth glabrous 

3. D. dumetorum 

- Leaflets usually 3–5-nerved; ultimate spikelets of inflorescence 

20–25 mm long, on peduncles up to 15 mm long; perianth pubescent 

2. D. cochleari-apiculata 

5. Plants with stems less than 2 m long; leaves 1.5–7 × 1–6.5 cm; 

perianth spreading; stamens 3, staminodes 3 4. D. gillettii 

- Plants with stems 3–10 m long; leaves 6–22 × 4.5–17 cm; 

perianth not spreading; stamens 6 5. D. bulbifera 

6. Plants pubescent with stellate hairs; perianth c. 2.5 mm long 

6. D. schimperiana 

- Plants glabrous; perianth 1–2 mm long 7 

7. Stems 4-winged or 4-angled; flowers on a zigzag axis 7. D. alata 

- Stems rounded, not winged or angled, sometimes slightly furrowed; 

axis of inflorescence straight 8 

8. Plants usually cultivated with superficial tubers (numerous cultivars 

and clones) and also in the wild; spikes 1–2(–3) in the axils of leaves; petioles 

not widened at the base; stems prickly in the wild 8. D. cayenensis 

- Plants mostly wild, without superficial tubers; spikes 2–6(–8) in the axils 

of leaves; petioles widened at the base: Stems unarmed 9 

9. Leaves cordate to ovate, basal lobes ± rounded, length/width ratio less 

than 1.8; perianth 1–15 mm long, white or gray, base relatively thicker, 

not scarious; flowers axis stout; roots unarmed 9. D. abyssinica


- Leaves ovate-lanceolate, basal lobes sometimes auriculate; length/width 

ratio more than 1.8; perianth 15–2 mm long, base scarious; flowers axis 

slender; roots thorny 10. D. sagittifolia 

Key to plants with female flowers or fruits 

1. Leaves compound, leaflets all entire 2 

- Leaves simple, entire or lobed 4 

2. Plants unarmed; leaflets (1–)3–5(–7) 1. D. quartiniana 

- Plants armed with stem spines; leaflets 3 3 

3. Leaflets up to 28 cm long, 3–5-nerved; capsules puberulous 

at maturity, 5–7 × 25 cm 2. D. cochleari-apiculata 

- Leaflets up to 16 cm long, usually 3-nerved; capsules glabrous 

at maturity, 25–45 × 1.4–2.4 cm 3. D. dumetorum 

4. Capsules longer than broad, reflexed; seeds winged at the basal end 

5. D. bulbifera 

- Capsules broader than long; seeds without a wing or winged all round 5 

5. Plants pubescent with stellate hairs 6.D. schimperiana 

- Plant glabrous 6 

6. Plants with stems less than 2 m long; seeds without a wing 4. D. gillettii 

- Plants with stems 3–15 m long; seeds winged all round 7 

7. Stems 4-winged or 4-angled 7. D. alata 

- Stems rounded, without wings or angles, sometimes slightly furrowed 8 

8. Plants usually cultivated, with rather superficial tubers (numerous cultivars 

and clones) and also in the wild; petioles not widened at the base; stems pricly 

in the wild 8. D. cayenensis 

- Plants usually wild, without superficial tubers; petioles widened at the base; 

stems unarmed 9 

9. Leaves cordate-ovate, basal lobes rounded; length/width ratio 

generally less than 1.8 9. D. abyssinica 

- Leaves ovate-lanceolate, basal corners sometimes auriculate; 

length/width ratio more than 1.8 10. D. sagittifolia

Dioscorea 

quartiniana 

Description 


distribution 

Dioscorea cochleariapiculata 

1. Dioscorea quartiniana A. Richard 

DIOSCOREA 309 

The specific epithet ‘quartiniana’ was given in honour 

of the French Botanist, QuartinDillon who collected the 

type specimen from Aderbati in Tigray floristic region. 

The species was described in 1851 by A. Richard. 

It differs from the other Dioscorea species with 

compound leaves (D. cochleari-apiculata and D. 

dumetorum) by having 3–5 leaflets and unarmed stems. 

In contrast, D. cochleari-apiculata and D. du me torum 

have 3 leaflets and stems with spines. 

Unarmed climber, 2–6 m long. Stems glabrous or sparsely pubescent. 

Bulbils rarely present, globose in outline, 0.7 × 0.7 cm, flushed 

purple. Tubers annual, 8–15 cm long, generally thin and assembled 

together in groups of 3–6. Leaves alternate with (1–)3–5(–7) leaflets; 

petiole 0.1–0.5(–1) cm long; leaflets with petiolule 0.1–0.3 (–0.5) 

cm long, extremely variable in size and shape, usually broadest in 

the lower twothirds, 2–14 × 1–8 cm, acute to acuminate or rounded 

at the apex, rounded to cuneate at the base, often at least thinly hairy 

beneath. Male inflorescences: 2–10 pedunculate catkins in the axils 

of leaves or in pendulous leafless axillary panicles, up to 30 cm long; 

peduncle 0.3–3 cm long; catkins 0.6–3(–4) cm long; axis not visible 

between the flowers; bracts usually concave, ovate, acuminate. 

Male flowers: perianth completely hidden by the bracts; stamens 3; 

staminodes 3. Female inflorescences: one to several axillary spikes 

with flowers close together at first, the internodes elongating greatly 

with age; spikes pendulous, 7–18 cm long. Female flowers: perianth 

and ovary pubescent. Capsule oblongelliptic, 2–3.7 × 1–1.7 cm, 

glabrescent, reflexed. Seeds winged on basal side only. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commi phora woodland, 

deciduous wooded grassland with Anogeissus, Boswellia, 

Acacia and Cussonia species, grassland with 

thickets and riparian forests between 1200 and 2650 

m and is widespread in Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is also 

common west to Gambia and south to Transvaal and on 

Madagascar. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is 

from April to June; sometimes in September.The tubers 

are edible after detoxification and are used as a famine 

food. 

2. Dioscorea cochleari-apiculata De Wild 

The specific epithet ‘cochleari-apiculata’ refers to the 

spoonshaped (cochleari) api cal part of the leaf ending 

abruptly in a short point (apiculata). The species was


Fig. 133. 

Dioscorea 

cochleariapiculata, 

from Adi Arkay, 


region. 

Description 

described by De Wild in 1914 from a plant collected from 

Katanga in Congo. 

It differs from the related species D. dumetorum by 

having 3–5 nerved leaflets and pubescent perianth and 

capsules. In contrast, D. dumetorum has 3-nerved leaflets 

and glabrous perianth and capsules. 

Climber, closely allied to D. dumetorum, but more vigorous and 

with larger leaves and flowers. Stems prickly, growing 12–15 m 

long, densely pubescent when young, later becoming glabrescent. 

Bulbils often present in the axils of the leaves. Tubers 4–6, globose, 

renewed annually. Leaves alternate, 3foliolate; petiole up to 28 cm 

long, prickly; leaflets with petiolule 0.6–0.7 cm long; lateral leaflets 

asymmetrical, median leaflet obovoid to broadly obovoid, 13–20 

× 12–13 cm, acutely acuminate at the apex, cuneate to rounded at 

the base, conspicuously 3–5nerved from just above the base. Male 

inflorescences: branched panicles of dense, cylindrical and divergent 

spikelets, 2–2.5 cm long; peduncle up to 1.5 cm long. Male flowers:


distribution 

Dioscorea 

dumetorum 

Description 


distribution 

DIOSCOREA 311 

perianth subglobose c. 1 mm long, densely pubescent; stamens 6. 

Female inflorescences: pendulous spikes 15–20 cm long, in the 

axils of leaves. Capsule 5–7 × 2.5 cm, velutinous, reflexed upwards. 

Seeds with a wing on the basal side only. 

The species grows in broadleaved deciduous woodland 

with Adansonia digitata and Boswellia papyrifera, 

along river valleys between 900 and 1300 m in Tigray 

and Gonder floristic regions. It also occurs in Tanzania, 

Burundi, Zaire, Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. The 

main flowering period in Ethiopia is from August to 

September. 

3. Dioscorea dumetorum (Kunth) Pax 

The specific epithet ‘dumetorum’ refers to the thicket 

(dumetum) habitat in which the plant grows. 

The species was described as Helmia dumetorum by 

Kunth in 1850 from plants collected in Tigray floristic 

region by Schimper. It differs from the related species, 

D. cochleari-apiculata by the 3-nerved leaflets and 

the glabrous perianth and mature capsule glabrous. In 

contrast, D. cochleari-apiculata has 3-nerved leaflets, 

and perianth and mature capsule pubescent. 

Prickly twiner or climber, stems growing 8–10 m long. Bulbils in 

the axils of leaves, prickly, 3–5 cm long, pubescent. Tubers renewed 

annually with several per plant; each tuber subglobose or cylindrical. 

Leaves alternate, 3foliolate, pubescent above, tomentose below, 

rarely glabrescent; petiole 5–20 cm long, generally prickly; petioles, 

0.3–1 cm long; lateral leaflets obovate, 5–16 × 3–15 cm, acute to 

acuminate at the apex, cuneate or rounded at the base, conspicuously 

3-nerved from just above the base. Male inflorescences: axillary or 

terminal, much branched panicles of dense spikes; spikes short, 

0.5–1(–1.5) cm long, subsessile or with peduncle up to 0.3 cm 

long, cylindrical; bracts broadly ovate, adpressed to the perianth 

and partly concealing it, densely pubescent. Male flowers: perianth 

subglobose, glabrous, opening little; stamens 6 at least in the first 

flowers and 5 or fewer in successive ones. Female inflorescences: 

pendulous axillary spikes, 10–20 cm long. Female flowers: directed 

downwards, softly tomentose all over; ovary densely pubescent. 

Capsules directed upwards, 2.5–4.5 × 1.7–2.4 cm, glabrous to 

sparsely pubescent. Seeds with a wing on the basal side only. 


and secondary thickets, and along river valleys between 

900 and 1525 m in Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, and Wellega 

floristic regions in Ethiopia and in Eritrea. It is also


Dioscorea gillettii 

Description 


distribution 

widespread to Senegal in the west and to Transvaal 

and Angola in the south. The main flowering period in 

Ethiopia is from August to September. 

This species includes wild varieties with poisonous 

tubers and bulbils with alkaloids (dioscorine and dihydrocorti 

sone). The wild tubers are eaten in times of famine, 

only after repeated washing. 

4. Dioscorea gillettii Milne-Redhead 

The specific epithet ‘gilletii’ was given in honour of the 

English botanist, Jan Gillett, who had collected much 

in eastern and ortheastern Africa. One of his collections 

from the Kenyaside of Moyale was designated as a type 

of the species. The species was described in 1963 by 

MilneRedhead. 

It differs from a similar species, D. bul bifera, by the 

stems growing only up to 2 m long, male flowers with 

3 stamens, and with wingless seeds. In contrast, D. 

bul bifera has 3–10 m long stems, male flowers with 6 

stamens and winged seeds. 

The plant is a small herbaceous twiner, less than 2 m high. Stems 

unarmed, glabrous. Tuber perennial, spreading horizontally just 

below the soil surface with fringing roots, 3.5–4.5 x2.5–3.2 cm. 

Leaves alternate, rarely subopposite; petiole 0.5–5 cm long; blade 

ovatecordate, 1.5–9 × 1–7.5 cm, acute to acuminate at the apex, 

deeply cordate at the base. Male inflorescences: In the axils of 

leaves, 1–14 cm long; with single pedicillate flowers or short 2–4 

flower cymules at each node. Male flowers: perianth spreading, 4–5 

mm wide; segments elliptic; stamens 3 and staminodes 3. Female 

inflorescences: one raceme per leaf axil, usually 2-flowered, rarely 

one or more. Female flower: perianth spreading, 5–6 mm wide; 

ovary glabrous. Capsule obovate to suborbicular, 2.2–2.7 × 2–3 cm, 

winged, with parallel nerves extending from the suture towards the 

axis, not reflexed. Seeds without a wing. 

The species grows in Acacia-Commiphora-Boswellia 

woodland and wooded grassland between 850 and 1650 

m in Sidamo and Bale floristic regions. It also occurs in 

Kenya. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

April to June and also from October to November.

Dioscorea bulbifera 

Description 

Fig. 134. 

Dioscorea 

bulbifera, from 

Tikil Dingay, 


region. 

5. Dioscorea bulbifera L. 

DIOSCOREA 313 

The specific epithet ‘bulbifera’ refers to the plant being 

bulb (bulbi-) bearing (fera). 

The species was described by Lin nae us already in 

1753 from a plate from Her mann’s Paradisus Batavus. 

It differs from the similar species D. gil lettii by having 

3–10 m long stems, male flowers with 6 stamens, and 

winged seeds. In contrast, D. gillettii has up to 2 m long 

stems, male flowers with 3 stamens, and seeds without 

a wing. 

Climber, growing 3–10 m high with twining stems, not prickly. 

Tuber renewed annually, subglobose, absent in several cultivars. 

Aerial axillary bulbils variable, 1–10 cm in diameter, weighing up 

to 2 kg; skin grey, brown, violate or purple; smooth or verrucose; 

angular or irregularly subglobose or flattened; flesh mucilaginous, 

white, yellow, purplish or liver coloured; toxic or edible. Leaves 

always alternate; blade broadly ovate, to cordate, 6–22 × 4.5–17 

cm, 6–8 nerves, acuminate at the apex, cordate at the base. Male 

inflorescences: 3–5 spikes, 3–12 cm long in the axils of leaves or 

on a leafless panicle, not spreading. Male flowers all point towards



distribution 

Dioscorea 

schimperiana 

Description 


distribution 

the apex of inflorescence; perianth white, turning pink or purple 

with age; stamens 6, those of the outer whorl longer than the inner 

ones. Female inflorescences: 1–6 spikes at a node, up to 25 cm long. 

Female flowers: perianth white, turning pink or brown when old. 

Capsule oblong ellipsoid, 2–3 × 1.2–1.6 cm, reflexed at maturity. 

Seeds winged at the basal end, c. 2 × 0.7 cm. Some edible varieties 

have lost their ability to produce flowers. 

The species grows on steep slopes in broadleaved 

deciduous woodland, rive rine forest and at edges of 

forest, also cultivated in home gardens between 600 and 

1500 m in Tigray, Gonder, Gojam, Illubabor, Kefa, Gamo 

Gofa, and Sidamo floristic regions in Ethiopia and in 

Eritrea. It is also widespread in tropical Africa and Asia, 

Pacific Islands, and it has been introduced to tropical 

America. The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from 

August to November. 

6. Dioscorea schimperiana Kunth 

The specific epithet ‘schimperiana’ was given in honor 

of the German Plant collector, W.G. Schimper, from one 

of whose collection the type specimen was designated. 

The species was described by Kunth in 1850 from a plant 

collected in Dje ladjeranne in Tigray floristic region. 

It differs from all the related species with simple 

leaves by having pubescent leaves and stems. 

Climber, with stems 3–6 m long, covered with stellate or branched 

hairs, generally green, sometimes redviolet. Small bulbils borne in 

the axils of upper leaves, subglobose, 0.8–4 × 0.6–2.5 cm. Tuber 

annual, irregularly cylindrical, descending vertically, 35–50 cm 

long, 5 cm thick, ± branched. Leaves usually opposite, occasionally 

subopposite or alternate; petiole 4–14 cm long; blade cordate, 

suborbicular or ovate, 4.5–22 × 4–17 cm, acuminate at the apex, 

cordate at the base with scattered stellate hairs above, denser below; 

7–9nerved, secondary nerves parallel; petiole 5–14 cm long. Male 

inflorescences: 2–12 pendulous spikes, 3.5–14 cm long, in the axils 

of leaves, covered with stellate hairs. Male flowers: perianth sessile, 

2–2.5 mm in diameter, cupshaped; outer whorl ovatelanceolate, 

obtuse, stellate pubes cent outside; inner whorl glabrous; stamens 6. 

Female inflorescences: 1–2 pendulous spikes in the axils of leaves, 

8–18(–25) cm long with 10–22 flowers or fruits along the axis, 

pubescent to tomentose. Capsule subtriangular to trape zo idal, 1.8–3 

× 1–3 cm, reflexed at maturity, pilose when young, glabrescent 

when old. Seeds with annular wings, 1.1–2.3 × 1–1.4 cm. 

The species grows in gallery forest, at ed ges of forest, 

or in Acacia seyal- Entada abyssinica- Stereospermum

Dioscorea alata 

Description 


distribution 

Dioscorea cayenensis 

DIOSCOREA 315 

kunthianurn wood land, disturbed areas on darkbrown 

loamy soil or lava, between 1600 and 2000 m, and it is 

widespread in Ethiopia. It also grows west to Nigeria 

and south to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from May to June. 

7. Dioscorea alata L. 

The specific epithet ‘alata’ refers to the winged stems. 

The species was described by Linnaeus in 1753 from a 

plant collected in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) by Hermann. 

It differs from all the related species with simple 

leaves by the winged or fourangled stems. In contrast, 

the other species have stems that are rounded and without 

wings. 

Vigorous twiner with stem 10–12 m long, unarmed, glabrous, 

4angled or 4winged. Some forms bear bulbils. Tuber annual, often 

large, varying in size and colour; single or digitate, descending 

vertically, branched or recurved as a tusk of an elephant, sometimes 

twisted; flesh generally white, sometimes mottled with purple or 

wholly purple. Leaves opposite, sometimes the lower alternate or 

with 2–4 cataphylls at the base, higher up sometimes in whorls of 3 

or 4; petiole 8–10 cm long, winged and decurrent on the stem; blade 

ovate to broadly elliptic to deeply cordate, with overlapping lobes 

in the basal leaves; 6–22 × 3–18 cm, acute at the apex, subtruncate 

to cordate at the base; 5–7(–9) nerved. Male inflorescences: axillary 

panicles of several leafless spikes, 15 cm or more long; each spike 

with 12–20 sessile alternately arranged flowers on a zigzag axis. 

Male flowers: perianth subglobose; outer whorl oval-elliptic, inner 

whorl subspathulate; stamens 6. Female inflorescences: solitary 

spikes in the axils of leaves, 20–30 cm long, glabrous. Capsule 

emarginate, 20–25 × 30–35 mm, glabrous. Seeds suborbicular, 

winged all round. 

The species is cultivated for its edible tubers at around 

1900 m in Illubabor floristic region. It is also cultivated 

in most parts of the tropics. 

8. Dioscorea cayenensis Lamarck 

The specific epithet ‘cayenensis’ refers to the name of the 

locality, Cayenne, in French Guyana from where the type 

specimen was collected. The species was described by 

Lamarck in 1789.


Description 


distribution 

Dioscorea abyssinica 

Description 

Wendawek Abebe (2008), that carried out molecular 

research in the species complex in the south and SW 

Ethiopia considered the two cultivated species (Dioscorea 

cayensesis and D. rotundata that form a complex) to be 

the same as the wild D. praehensislis and kept them 

under the oldest name D. cayenensis, a concept followed 

here. The complex differs from the related species, D. 

abyssinica and D. sagit tifolia by usually having spines on 

the stem and a petiole that is not widening at the base. 

Annual twiner.Stems prickly or unarmed. Superficial roots prickly 

or unarmed. Leaves opposite above, alternate at the base, sometimes 

the basal leaves modified and reduced to cataphylls; petiole 5–12 

cm long; blade broadly ovate to sub orbicular, 6–12 × 5–10 cm, 

acuminate at the apex, broadly cordate at the base; 5–7nerved. 

Male inflorescences: 1–3 spikes, 4–6 cm long in the axils of leaves. 

Female inflorescences: 1–2 spikes in the axils of leaves, 10–12 cm 

long, few-flowered. Capsule 2–2.5 × 3–3.5 cm. Seeds winged all 

round, 1–1.5 × 1–1.5 cm. 

The species is cultivated between 1700 and 1800 m in 

Kefa and Sidamo floristic regions and grows wild in 

secondary forests between 550 and 1600 m in Sidamo, 

Kefa, Illubabor floristic regions. It is also cultivated 

and widespread throughout tropical Africa. The main 

flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to June and 

from September to October. The tubers of the wild forms 

are eaten during famine. 

9. Dioscorea abyssinica Hochstetter ex Kunth 

The specific epithet ‘abyssinica’ refers to the former name 

of Ethiopia, Abyssinia. The species name was proposed 

by Hoch stetter, and the species was described by Kunth 

in 1850 from a plant collected in Djeladjeranne, Tigray 

floristic region by Schimper. 

It differs from the related species D. sagittifolia 

by having leaves where the basal lobes are rounded. 

In contrast, D. sa git tifolia has leaves with sagittate to 

auriculate basal lobes. 

Climber, stems growing 2–5 m long, unarmed, glabrous. Tubers 

annual, edible, growing deep in the ground, up to 6 × 2–3 cm, 

cylindrical, slender, sometimes branched; flesh generally white or 

light lilac. Roots unarmed. Leaves generally opposite; petiole 3–6 

cm long, glabrous; blade cordateovate, broadly elliptic to triangular, 

4–12 × 2–6 cm, acuminate, cuspidate at the apex, cordate at the

Fig. 135. 

Dioscorea 


Tikil Dingay, 


region. 


distribution 

DIOSCOREA 317 

base; 5–7nerved; venation on either side of the midrib fairly close. 

Male inflorescences: 3–6 spikes, 2–7(–10) cm long in the axils 

of leaves. Male flowers: perianth segments sub orbicular. Female 

inflorescences: 1–2 spikes, 8–15 cm long in the axils of leaves. 

Capsule glaucous, slightly emarginate at the apex, 2–2.2 x3–3.5 cm. 

Seed with wing all round, 1.5–2 × 1.5–2 cm. 

The species grows in woodland or wooded grassland 

with species of Combretum, Ter minalia, Stereospermum, 

Oxytenan thera, be tween 1000 and 1800 m in Tigray, 

Gonder, Gojam, Wellega, Kefa, Gamo Gofa, and Sidamo 

floristic regions in Ethiopia, and in Eritrea. It is 

also widespread west to Senegal. The distribution of the 

species may not be as wide as is indicated here. However, 

this requires a need for further field observation and clear 

morphological separation from D. cayenensis complex. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from July to 

October.


Dioscorea 

sagittifolia 

Description 


distribution 

10. Dioscorea sagittifolia Pax 

The specific epithet ‘sagittifolia’ refers to the arrow 

shaped (sagitti-) leaf (-folia) bases. 

The species was described by Pax in 1892 from a plant 

collected in Djur, Central Africa by Schweinfurth. 

It differs from the related species D. abyssinica by 

having leaves where the the basal lobes are sagittate to 

auriculate. In contrast, D. abyssinica has leaves with 

the basal lobes being rounded. Of the two varieties, D. 

sagittifolia var. lecardii (De Wild.) Nkounkou occurs in 


Climber, stem 4–5 m long, unarmed, glabrous. Tubers annual, 

descending vertically and found deeply (to 40 cm) below the 

surface, protected by thorny roots. Leaves opposite, rarely alternate; 

petiole 1.5–3.5(–5.5) cm, glabrous; blade firm in texture, ovatelanceolate 

to deltoid, 3.7–12 × 1.5–6 cm, tapering, acute at the 

apex, often broadly cordate to hastate at the base; 5–7nerved. Male 

inflorescences: (1–)2–4 spikes, 1.5–3(–5) cm long, in the axils of 

leaves. Male flowers: perianth glabrous, subglobose, 1.5–2 mm; 

outer perianth segments with or without a small scarious base. 

Female inflorescences: 1–2 spikes, 15–20 cm long, in the axils of 

leaves. Female flowers: perianth subglobose c. 2 mm in diameter. 

Capsule with waxy cover, 1.9–2.2 × 2.8–3.2 cm. Seeds winged all 

round, c. 1.5 × 1.5 cm. 

The species grows in open montane forest with Trichilia 

dregeana and in woo ded grass land, between 1350 

and1700 m in Shewa and Kefa floristic regions. It also 

occurs in Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, and west to Senegal. 

The main flowering period in Ethiopia is from April to 

July.


reproduction 

TACCACEAE 

DIOSCOREA 319 

This family includes only one genus, Tacca, distributed 

pantropically, with its centre of variation in SE Asia 

and Polynesia. It is a unique and systematically isolated 

family, but with connections to Dioscoreaceae. 

TACCA J.R. & G. Forst. 

The genus includes tall herbs, up to 2 m, growing 

from tuberous rhizomes. The leaves have long petioles 

and are often strongly dissected, a very rare trait for a 

lily, more commonly found in the family Araceae. The 

inflorescence is umbellate with rather inconspicuous 

flowers, subtended by long prominent involucral bracts. 

The flowers are bisexual, regular with 3 + 3 united tepals 

and 3 + 3 stamens inserted on the corolla tube. The 

filaments are short, wide and flattened, extending into 

a hoodlike structure covering the anther. The ovary is 

inferior with 3 well developed stigmatic branches, and it 

develops into a berrylike fruit. 

The genus includes c. 10 species which are widely 

distributed in the tropics. Only one species is found in 

Africa. The flowers have unpleasant smell that attract 

carrion and dung flies that act as pollinators. The 

hoodlike structures on the stamens may create traps for 

insects. Birds are probably involved in the seed dispersal, 

efficient enough to disperse the species over large areas. 

Since the plants are usuful to man it is probably also 

spread by humans. The seeds have a spongy seed coat 

with a sweetish taste. The tubers are used for food (starch 

content up to 27%) and as medicine. They also include a 

bitter substance, taccalin, that has to be removed before 

the tubers are eaten. They are traded under the misleading 

name of East Indian Arrowroot.

320 TACCACEAE 

Tacca 

leontopetaloides 

Description 


distribution 

Tacca leontopetaloides (L.) O. Ktze 

The species epithet refers to leon, the Greek word for lion, 

which probably is connected to the striking appearance 

of the inflorescence with its long, hanging bracts (not 

petals as indicated by the epithet) might remind of a 

lion’s mane. The appearance of the plant is not really lilylike, 

and the species cannot be confused with anything 

else. The umbellate inflorescences with the long, hanging 

bracts are very characteristic. 

Plants from tubers up to 10 cm across. Leaves 1–3 with a petiole 

up to 150 cm and blade up to 120 × 70 cm, but usually smaller, 

palmately 3dvided, with each of the 3 segments pinnately lobed 

or dissected. Inflorescence 10–40 flowered on a hollow stem up 

to 170 cm long, with 5–6 leafy broad involucral bracts and many 

5–20 cm long, hanging, filiform bracteoles. Pedicels 2–3 cm long. 

Flowers greenish yellow or purplish green, drooping, smelling of 

rotten flesh. Tepals fleshy, 3–8 mm long. Fruits subglobose up to 3 

cm in diameter, green to light orange. 

The species grows in thickets or open wood land from 

about 500 to 1250 m. It is found in the Tigray/Gonder 

border areas and in Gojam, Shewa, and Illubabor floristic 

regions. It is otherwise widespread in tropical Africa, 

Asia and the Pacific Islands. The main flowering period 

is from May to June, occasionally also in December.


reproduction 


SMILACACEAE 

321 

This family includes three genera of climbers with 

tendrils, of which one, Smilax, is species rich and widely 

distributed in tropical to temperate regions. This is the 

only genus represented in Africa. 

SMILAX L. 

The genus was already described in 1753 by Linnaeus. It 

includes perennial climbers with tendrils developed from 

the leaf bases (transformed stipules). The leaves are ovate 

to cordate with 3–7 curvedconvergent main nerves with 

reticulate venation between the primary veins; usually 

with a distinct petiole. The inflorescences are produced 

from the leaf axils and are umbelshaped, racemose or 

spicate. The flowers are most often unisexual and most 

often rather inconspicuous, with 3 + 3 tepals. The male 

flowers have usually 6 stamens, and the female a superior 

ovary of 3 united carpels, developing into a berry. 

The genus includes c. 300 species which are widely 

distributed in the tropical, subtropical and temperate 

regions. The flowers are pollinated by small unspecialised 

insects, wind might also be involved. The seeds are 

dispersed by fruiteating birds and mammals. Smilax 

species are used medicinally, with leaves, roots and 

stems used to make infusions. Young shoots may be used 

as vegetables. 

1. Leaf blades rounded or gradually narrowing towards the base, widest at the 

middle; inflorescence a simple umbel 1. S. anceps 

- Leaf base truncate or heartshaped at the base, widest below the middle; 

inflorescence of several few-flowered umbels, appearing racemose 2. S. aspera

322 ALOACEAE 

Fig. 136. Smilax anceps, from Tepi on the border between Illubabor and 

Gonder floristic regions. 

Smilax anceps 

Description 


distribution 

1. Smilax anceps Willdenow 

The species epithet means twoedged in Latin and may 

refer to the winged petiole. It was described by Willdenow 

in 1806 based on material from Mauritius. The species is 

recognised by its umbellate inflorescences. 

Climbing shrubs with slender woody stems up to 6 m long, often with 

prickly spines in the lower parts. Leaves alternate, petiole 1–2.5 cm 

long without prickles, angular to winged with two coiling tendrils 

up to 10 cm long, blade 5–16 × 2–10 cm, leathery, broadly oblong to 

elliptic, rounded or gradually narrowing at the base, conspicuously 

3–5 nerved from base to apex. Inflorescence a simple spherical 

umbel with 10–20 flowers; pedicels 7–11 mm when flowering, 

up to 25 mm in fruit. Tepals 4–6 × 0.5–1 mm, greenish to cream 

yellow; male flowers with stamens 5 mm long; female flowers with 

ovary 2 mm long, style absent, stigma 3branched. Berry 5–9 mm 

in diameter, globose, green when unripe, maturing to purpleblack. 

Seeds, few, 3–4 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in gallery forests near streams and 

rivers between 1150 and 1700 m. It is recorded from 

Wellega and Kefa floristc regions, and is otherwise 

widely distributed from West Africa to South Africa and 

also in Madagascar, Mauritius and Reunion.

Fig. 137. Smilax aspera, Chilimo forest, Shewa floristic region. 

Smilax aspera 

Description 


distribution 

2. Smilax aspera L. 

SMILAX 323 

The species epithet refers to asper which means rough or 

rugged and refers to the prickly habit of the whole plant. It 

was described by Linnaeus in 1753 from material grown 

in a European botanic garden. The species is recognised 

by a racemose inflorescence that consists of several fewflowered 

umbels along a rachis. It is in general more 

prickly than the former species. 

Climbing shrubs with slender woody stems up to 5 m long, often 

with prickly spines in the lower parts. Leaves alternate, petiole 2–4 

cm long, often with prickles, flattened with two coiling tendrils, 

blade 3–12 × 1–9 cm, leathery, triangular to elliptic with cordate 

to truncate base, 5–7 nerved from base to apex, sometimes with 

prickles on margin and major nerves. Inflorescence of small umbels 

along branched or unbranched axes, 2.5–7.5 cm long, each umbel 

with 3–10 flowers; pedicels 2–5 mm. Tepals 2.5–4 × 0.8–1.3 mm, 

white or cream; male flowers with stamens 3 mm long; female 

flowers with staminodes and ovary 2–2.5 mm long, style absent, 

stigma 3branched. Berry 4–8 mm in diameter, globose, green when 

unripe, maturing to red or purple. Seeds few, 3 mm in diameter. 

The species grows in forests or forest edges, scrambling 

over shrubs and trees, sometimes along roadsides between 

1900 and 3200 m. It is recorded from Welo, Shewa, Arsi, 

Kefa, Sidamo, and Harerge floristic regions in Ethiopia

324 SMILACACEAE 

and also in Eritrea. It is widespread in the Mediterranean 

area and reaches south to Tanzania and Zaire. It is further 

found in the Himalayas and on Sri Lanka. It appears to be 

flowering all year round.

VELLOZIACEAE 

325 

This family includes about 8 genera, with a center of 

diversity in South America. Only two, Xerophyta and 

Talbotia, occur in Africa, the latter restricted to South 

Africa. The family includes mainly shrubby perennials, 

with branched stems covered by persistent leaf bases and 

roots that form a mantle around the stems. The family is 

probably old, and the Amphiatlantic distribution might 

go back to the Gondwana continent in the southern 

hemisphere. It was earlier believed to be related to the 

family Hypoxidaceae, but modern analyses have not 

supported this view. It is systematically isolated, and 

may not be related to lilies at all. Molecular data indicate 

a relationship to e.g. the screw palms (Pandanus), but 

morphologically they have little in common. 

XEROPHYTA Jussieu 

The genus was described by Jussieu in 1789 and refers to 

the adaptation to dry habitats (xero = dry, phyton = plant 

in Greek). The function of the fibrous mantle around 

the stems is to gather moisture from fogs and rains and 

at the same time protect the stem from fires. Species 

of the genus have been shown to survive down to 0% 

relative humidity, and they revive after being more or 

less completely dehydrated. In older floras the African 

representatives was referred to Vellozia, a genus now 

defined to include only South American members. 

The plants are often more or less branched shrubs 

with narrow, leathery, grasslike leaves tufted at the end 

of the fibrous branches. The flowers are showy, pinkish 

to whitish, solitary from leaf axils. They are bisexual 

with an inferior ovary. The six petallike tepals are free 

or united into a basal tube. The filaments are flattened 

and almost completely fused with the tepals so that the 

anthers appear to be sessile. The fruits are hairy or sticky 

capsules that opens by longitudinal slits or pores.

326 VELLOZIACEAE 


reproduction 


The genus includes about 30 species, distributed in 

Madagascar, the African continent and southwest Arabia. 

Four species are recorded from Ethiopia. 

Little is known of pollination, but the flower syndrome 

indicates that large insects are involved. Relatives from 

South America with similar flowers are known to be 

pollinated by bees, hawkmoths, birds and bats. The seed 

dispersal is ballistic, meaning that the seeds are kept 

inside the capsule until strong wind or animals throw the 

seeds out of slits or pores. 

1. Plants 20–200 cm tall with well developed branches; leaves with 

both simple and complex stiff flattened hairs in clusters on the 

lower surface 4. X. spekei 

- Plants usually less than 20 cm tall, unbranched or slightly branched; 

leaves glabrous or with fine hairs 2 

2. Ovary and fruit covered by globular gland-cells; leaves mostly in basal 

rosette, sheaths not distinct, broken up into fibres 3. X. humilis 

- Ovary and fruit densely covered by stiff non-glandular hairs; 

leaves mostly on stems, sheaths remaining distinct, only splitting up into fibres 

when old 3 

3. Leaves mostly glabrous, sometimes a few hairs on the margins and lower 

surface; only simple hairs present 1. X. schnizleinia 

- Leaves mostly pubescent; both simple and complex hairs present 

2. X. rippsteinii 

Xerophyta 

schnizleinia 

1. Xerophyta schnizleinia (Hochstetter) Baker 

The species is named to honour the German botanist 

and pharmacist Adalbert Schniz lein. It was described 

by Hochstetter in 1844 in the genus Hypoxis, ba sed on 

material that Schimper collected in the Semien mountains. 

Baker transferred it to Xerophyta in 1875. 

This is a very variable species, the most widespread 

of the Ethiopian taxa, and it is recognized by the almost 

glabrous leaves and the densely haired capsules. It is a 

complex species which should be studied further.

Description 

Subspecific key 


distribution 

Fig. 138. 

Xerophyta 

schnizleinia var. 

schnizleinia, 

from Metahara, 


region. 

XEROPHYTA 327 

Plants of very variable size, forming tussocks. Stems short or long, 

0.5–1.5 cm wide, simple or slightly branched. Leaves, linear, 5–40 

× 0.2–0.7 cm, scabrid on margin and midrib, otherwise glabrous or 

with a few simple hairs. Flowers 1–3 at the apex of the stem; flower 

stalks 330 cm long. Top of the peduncle and ovary densely covered 

with thick stiff simple hairs. Tepals white with or without a pink 

tinge, linearlanceolate 10–40 mm long; anthers yellow, 7–15 mm 

long. Capsule globose, 7–15 mm in diameter, densely covered with 

stiff, dark brown hairs. 

1. Fairly robust plants; stem 1–1.5 cm thick at the base; leaf blade 

10–40 × 0.4–0.7 cm, usually straight; flower stalks 10–30 cm long; 

tepals (15–)20–40 mm long; anthers 10–15 mm long; capsule 12–15 

mm long with hairs c. 1.5 mm long 

a. var. schnizleinia 

- Small plants; stem 0.5–0.8 cm thick at the base; leaf blade 5–15 × 

0.2–0.4 cm, usually curved; flower stalks 3–10 cm long; tepals less 

than 10 mm long; anthers 7–10 mm long; capsule 7–12 mm long with 

hairs c. 1 mm long b. var. somaliense 

a. var. schnizleinia 

This variety is found in rock crevices, particularly in 

lava flows, but also on limestone, or on stony soils in 

grassland or open Acacia-Commiphora woodland from 

30 to 1500 m. It is widespread in Eritrea and Ethiopia, 

found in most floristic regions and also occurs in East

328 VELLOZIACEAE 


distribution 

Xerophyta 

rippsteinii 

Description 


distribution 

Xerophyta humilis 

Description 

Africa. The main flowering period in Ethiopia and Eritrea 

is from April to November. 

b. var. somaliense (Terracc.) Lye 

This subspecies was as the name tells described from 

Somalia. It grows in shallow soil pockets on rocks or dry 

sandy open habitats in low rainfall areas between 300 and 

700 m. Within Ethiopia it is only known from Harerge 

floristic region. The flowering period is from Novemer to 

December, thus not overlapping with the other variety. 

2. Xerophyta rippsteinii Smith, Lebrun & Stork 

The species is named after the collector of the type 

material, Rippstein. It appears to be a more densely 

pubescent relative of X. schnitzleinia, and was described 

as late as in 1986. 

Plants forming tussocks of unbranched stems. Leaves linear, 

strongly recurved, up to 10 × 0.7 cm, lower surface densely covered 

with simple or compound hairs. Flowers solitary on stalks, 2–5 cm 

long. Top of the peduncle and ovary densely covered with thick stiff 

simple hairs. Tepals 15–25 mm long; anthers yellow, c. 12 mm long. 

Capsule as wide or wider than long, 10 mm wide, densely covered 

with stiff hairs. 

The species grows on sandy soil in rocky outcrops 

between 400 and 500 m. It is a local endemic in Bale 

floristic region and adjacent parts of Somalia. 

3. Xerophyta humilis (Baker) Th. Dur. & Schinz 

The species epithet means lowgrowing (close to the soil, 

humus), and it is one of the smallest representatives of the 

genus. It is further recognized by the glandular ovaries 

and capsules. Baker described it first in 1889 in the genus 

Vellozia, based on material from South Africa. 

Small plants forming dense tussocks or mats. Leaves forming 

rosettes on the ground, 2–6 × 0.1–0.2 cm, stiff, often dark purple, 

glabrous but scabrid on margin. Flowers solitary on stalks up to 5.5 

cm long, with scattered glandular hairs. Tepals 7–10(–15) mm long; 

anthers 3 mm long. Capsule subglobose, 4–6 × 5–8 mm in diameter, 

covered with globular glands.


distribution 

Xerophyta spekei 

Description 


distribution 

XEROPHYTA 329 

The species is found in shallow soil and crevices on 

granite inselberg and also in Com miphora bushland on red 

soil between 1300 and 1400 meter. It is only known from 

Sidamo floristic region in Ethiopia and has otherwise a 

very disjunct distribution, reoccurring from Zambia and 

southwards. These relations should be further studied. 

4. Xerophyta spekei Baker 

The species is named after the soldier and explorer 

John H. Speke who collected extensively in East Africa 

around the middle of the 19 th century. It was described by 

Baker in 1895 from Tanzanian material. It is the only tall 

species, up to about 2 m, of the genus found in Ethiopia. 

The trunk, formed mostly from the specialized roots, is 

up to 10 cm wide at the base. 

Branched shrubs up to about 2 m. Leaves linear, 7–30(–70) × 

0.2–1.2 cm, densely covered with white hairs below, simple or in 

clusters. Flowers 1–3 at the apex of the stem; flower stalks 2–8 cm 

long with glandular hairs. Tepals white to lilac or mauve, linearlanceolate 

20–35(–50) mm long; anthers 13–20 mm long. Capsule 

sub globose, up to 15 mm long with spaced glandular hairs. 

The species belongs to rocky outcrops in dry areas, and 

has only been collected in the southernmost Ethiopia 

(Sidamo (or possibly Bale) floristic regions) close to the 

Kenyan border. It is further known from Kenya, Tanzania 

and Zambia. in the main flowering periosd in Ethiopia is 

in June.


List of botanical terms 

acaulescent without an easily seen stem 

actinomorphic (about flowers) radially symmetrical, can be divided into 

two identical halves by several radial lines. 

acuminate becoming gradually narrower to a slender point. 

anthesis the period when the pollen is shed and the stigmata are 

receptive to pollen; from the opening of the flower bud to the setting 

of the seed. 

aril an outer covering or appendage, often fleshy and/or brightly colored, 

that encloses the seed. 

attenuate tapering gradually to a slender point. 

basifixed (about anthers) the filament is attached to the base of the 

anther. 

bilaterally symmetry when a structure has one plane of symmetry; if 

cut along this plane the two halves are mirror images of each other; 

usually used for flowers (synonymous with zygomorphic). 

bifacial (about leaves) with clearly defined upper and lower surfaces 

throughout the leaf. 

bracta small leaf-like structure usually associated with a flower and/or 

inflorescence. 

campanulate bell-shaped, with a broad tube and a wide opening. 

canaliculate having a distinct grove running lengthwise. 

capitate like the head of a pin (as in the thickened stigma of some 

flowers) or a compact cluster of flowers forming a head. 

cartilagenous hardened and tough (horn-like), but capable of being bent. 

cataphyll reduced, scale-like leaf; usually used for reduced leaves other 

than bracts. 

caudate abruptly ending in a long and very narrow tip, like a tail. 

caulescent with a clearly visible stem above ground. 

cauline placed on an aerial stem. 

cladodes a leaf-like structure formed by a modified stem. 

clavate club-shaped; thickened at the end. 

connivent coming close together or converging, but not united, often 

closer together above than below. 

coriaceous with a thick and firm texture, similar to leather. 

corm a short, thick underground stem, which grows vertically, for 

example, in many Iridaceae. 

corymb a panicle-like inflorescence in which the branches or flower-stalks 

start from different places on the stem, but all the flowers are borne 

at about the same level. 

corymbose corymb-like. 

cucullate hooded or hood-shaped ( a hood is a covering for a person’s 

head).

LIST OF BOTANICAL TERMS 331 

cyme an inflorescence in which the main axis is terminated by a flower 

which opens first, this flower is subtended by two opposite branches 

each of which ends in a flower, these open next and are likewise 

subtended by two opposite branches; this branching pattern may 

continue. 

cymule a dimunitive cyme. 

declinate bent or curved downward or forward; also used for stamens 

with sympetalous flowers which are inserted on the ventral (abaxial) 

side of the corolla tube and then usually bent up. 

decumbent lying on the ground but with the apex growing upwards. 

decussate when each of pair of opposite leaves are arranged 

perpendicular to leaf pairs above and below. 

distichous arranged in two opposing rows. 

divaricate spreading in different directions. 

dorsifixed (about anthers) attached to the back or dorsal side. 

elaiosome an outgrowth from a seed containing oil or fat and which is 

often attractive to ants which aid in the dispersal of the seed. 

endemic being confined to a particular geographic region. 

ensiform sword-like. 

epigynous situated above the ovary. 

equitant (of leaves) 2 ranked with the leaves arranged so that their bases 

overlap (fit into) each other. 

falcate curved like a scythe or sickle. 

extrorse facing the outside; of anthers that open away from the center of 

the flower; the opposite of introrse. 

fascicle a close cluster of structures arising from about the same point, 

but lacking a distinct arrangement of parts. 

fasciculate borne in fascicles. 

fistulose hollow, like a pipe, and herbaceous. 

funicle the stalk of the ovule, attaching it to the placenta. 

fusiform spindle shaped, widest in the middle and narrowing at both 

ends. 

geophyte a plant which perennates by subterranean buds. 

glabrous without hairs, a surface devoid of hairs. 

hyaline very thin and almost transparent. 

hypogynous situated below the base of the ovary. 

hysteranthous not developing leaves before the end of the flowering. 

indigenous native to a region, not introduced. 

indumentum any cover of a surface but usually restricted to a covering of 

hair-like structures. 

inferior ovary an ovary that is below the attachment of the sepals, petals 

and stamens, and if present, the calyx tube or hypanthium. 

integument the structure(s) enclosing the central nutritive tissue of the 

ovule, finally forming the testa. 

introrse turned inward toward the central axis of an organ; of anthers 

that open towards the center of the flower; the opposite of extrorse. 

involucre a number of bracts that surround the base of an umbel or the 

base of a flower head. 

locule a chamber or compartment, mostly of an ovary or a fruit. 

loculicidal splitting along the central parts of the locule (not in the walls 

separating the locules). 

moniliform like a string of beads. 

monophyletic a taxonomic group where all its members have evolved 

from a single ancestor, and where all the descendants of that 

ancestor are included in the group.


muricate with a rough surface covered with short hard projections or 

tubercles. 

ovary the part of the pistil which contains the ovules. 

ovate a flat structure which is egg-shaped in outline with the broadest 

part near the base. 

panicle a complex, branched inflorescence. 

papilla (pl. papillae) a minute outgrowth. 

papillate covered with papillae. 

paraphyletic a taxon that contains some, but not all, descendants of the 

most recent common ancestor of the group. 

pedicel the stalk of a single flower. 

peduncle the stalk that bears an inflorescence consisting of two or more 

flowers. 

pedunculate with peduncles. 

perianth the floral leaves, if undifferentiated called tepals, if 

differentiated the outer are called sepals, the inner petals. 

petiole the stalk of a leaf on which the blade is borne. 

phylloclade a flattened photosynthesising stem. 

placentation the arrangement of the ovules in the ovary. 

plicate folded lengthwise, like a fan. 

plesiomorphic having an ancestral character state. 

polyphyletic evolved from more than one ancestral group. 

protandrous when the anthers discharge pollen before the stigma (in the 

same flower) is receptive. 

puberulous covered with very short fine hairs, or slightly hairy. 

pubescent with a covering of soft hairs. 

raceme an indeterminate inflorescence in which the flowers are borne 

along a single axis with the uppermost the youngest, each flower 

with a stalk of about the same length. 

racemose arranged like a raceme. 

rachis the axis of a compound leaf; the axis of an inflorescence. 

radially symmety see actinomorphic. 

rhipidium (pl. rhipidia) inflorescence consisting of umbellate clusters. 

rhizome a root-like stem on or beneath the ground with roots growing 

downwards, and leaves and shoots upwards. 

rosulate when the leaves are in a rosette. 

rugose with wrinkles or grooves on the surface. 

rugulose delicately wrinkled. 

saccate bag-shaped or sack-shaped, pouched. 

scabrid (scabrous) rough to touch, usually caused by the presence of very 

short stiff hairs. 

scandent a general term for climbing. 

scape a flower stalk (peduncle) without leaves that arises from the 

ground. 

scarious thin and dry, not green. 

secund one sided; as for example flowers which are attached along one 

side of the axis. 

septicidal opening at or along the separating walls (or septum). 

serrate (serrulate) with teeth like a saw, the teeth more or less regular 

and pointing forwards. 

sessile without a stalk. 

sheath a tubular structure that encloses an organ or the basal part of it. 

spathaceous like a spathe. 

spathe a large bract enclosing or supporting an inflorescence.

LIST OF BOTANICAL TERMS 333 

stigma (pl. stigmata) the portion of the pistil (usually at the top of the 

style) which is receptive to pollen, usually with a sticky or minutely 

papillate surface on which the pollen germinates. 

subclavate almost or somewhat clavate. 

subsecund almost or somewhat secund. 

subulate narrow, tapering from the base to a tip. 

sulcus a longitudinal furrow. 

sulcate with a longitudinal furrow. 

superior ovary an ovary that is borne above the attachment of the sepals, 

petals or tepals. 

tendril a slender, usually coiling, part of a leaf or a stem that helps 

support the stem. 

tepal used for the parts of the perianth where the sepals and petals are 

not differentiated. 

terete round or circular in cross section. 

triquetrous with three sharp angles. 

truncate (of leaves) having a blunt base. 

tuber a thickened portion of a stem, usually underground. 

tunic a thin coat or cover. 

tunicate (of corms) having coats or envelops, or a thin separable cover. 

turbinate cone-shaped, but with the broad portion up and the pointed 

portion down. 

twining climbing by winding the stem around the support. 

unifacial (of leaves) the leaf is folded so that it is only the lower surface 

seen on both sides. 

verrucose having a surface with raised projections or warts. 

versatile (of anthers) turning freely on its stalk (filament). 

zygomorphic flowers having bilateral symmetry so that the flower can be 

divided equally only along one plane.


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Index to plant names 

Page references in bold refers to main descriptions of the taxon. 

ACACIA 16, 17, 18, 24, 25, 27, 58, 

68, 71, 72, 73, 88, 94, 95, 98, 104, 108, 109, 121, 125, 126, 131, 132, 

141, 145, 146, 149, 150, 153, 156, 178, 203, 209, 213, 221, 222, 245, 

273, 278, 280, 285, 292, 294, 296, 298, 299, 302, 302, 309, 312, 327 

Acacia abyssinica 24 

Acacia albida 18 

Acacia bavazanoi 24 

Acacia bussei 18 

Acacia drepanolobium 18 

Acacia ehrenbergiana 16 

Acacia etbaica 18 

Acacia hockii 20, 104 

Acacia horrida 104 

Acacia lahai 24 

Acacia megalacantha 71 

Acacia nilotica 20 

Acacia origena 24 

Acacia pentagona 27 

Acacia polyacantha subsp. cam pylacantha 32, 101 

Acacia senegal 18 

Acacia seyal 18, 20, 314 

Acacia tortilis 18 

Acacia venosa 24 

ACALYPHA 18 

Acid an thera bicolor 258 

Acid anthera candida 259 

Acidanthera gunnisii 253 

ACOKANTHERA 280, 296 

Acokanthera schimperi 23, 25 

Adansonia digitata 311 

Adenia venenata 98 

AERVA 18 

AGAPANTHUS 206 

Agapanthus praecox 206 

AGAVACEAE 38 

AGAVE 38 

AGROSTIS 31 

Agrostis gracilifolia subsp. parviflora 31 

Albizia grandibracteata 27 

Albizia gummifera 27 

Albizia schimperiana 27 

ALBUCA 183, 200, 203, 204 

Albuca abyssinica 201, 202 

Albuca blepharophylla 201

INDEX TO PLANT NAMES 339 

Albuca chaetopoda 202 

Albuca hyacin thoides 187 

Albuca tenuis 201, 202 

ALCHEMILLA 31 

Alchemilla haumannii 30 

ALLIACEAE 183, 206 

ALLIUM 206, 207 

Allium alibile 207, 209 

Allium spatha ceum 208 

Allium subhirsutum 207, 208 

Allium subhirsutum subsp. spathaceum 208 

Allophylus abyssinicus 22 

ALOACEAE 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 42 

ALOE 4, 5, 16, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25, 31, 37, 42, 43, 45, 46, 67, 69, 110 

Aloe abyssinica 90 

Aloe abyssinica var. per cras sa 77 

Aloe adigratana 23, 90, 91 

Aloe ankoberensis 31, 80, 81, 82 

Aloe barbadensis 45 

Aloe benishangulana 21, 43, 44, 66 

Aloe berhana 80 

Aloe bertemariae 17, 52, 56, 57 

Aloe boranensis 87 

Aloe calidophila 18, 90, 93, 97 

Aloe camperi 24, 89, 90, 91 

Aloe citrina 17, 52, 56, 57, 58 

Aloe clarkei 43, 44, 101 

Aloe debrana 22, 44, 77, 78, 79 

Aloe dumetorum 64 

Aloe elegans 24, 44, 88 

Aloe elkerriana 43, 44, 107 

Aloe ellenbeckii 18, 64 

Aloe eru 90, 91 

Aloe eumassawana 37, 52, 58 

Aloe ferox 45 

Aloe friisii 18, 44, 103 

Aloe ghibensis 21, 43, 44, 66, 99, 100 

Aloe gilbertii 18, 44, 90, 96, 97 

Aloe gilbertii subsp. gilbertii 19, 97 

Aloe gilbertii subsp. megalacanthoides 97 

Aloe graminicola 64 

Aloe harlana 44, 75, 76 

Aloe jacksonii 108 

Aloe kefaensis 44, 65 

Aloe lateritia 43, 62, 63, 64 

Aloe lateritia subsp. graminicola 64 

Aloe macrocarpa 43, 62, 64, 65 

Aloe mcloughlinii 18, 44, 70, 71 

Aloe megal acan tha 90, 95, 97 

Aloe megalacantha subsp. alticola 96 

Aloe megalacantha subsp. megalacantha 95 

Aloe monticola 75, 76 

Aloe otallensis 18, 44, 87 

Aloe parvidens 43, 73 

Aloe percrassa 23, 77


Aloe pirottae 18, 71, 86 

Aloe pubes cens 52, 54 

Aloe pulcherrima 23, 44, 80, 82 

Aloe retrospiciens 18, 43, 67, 69 

Aloe rivae 77, 84 

Aloe rugosifolia 74 

Aloe ruspoliana 43, 67, 69 

Aloe ruspoliana var. dra cae ni formis 69 

Aloe schelpei 90, 98, 100 

Aloe schoelleri 52, 59 

Aloe schweinfurthii 66 

Aloe secundiflora 43, 85 

Aloe sinana 90, 92 

Aloe steudneri 43, 60, 80, 81 

Aloe tewoldei 105 

Aloe trichosantha 19, 43, 52, 60 

Aloe trichosantha subsp. longiflora 54 

Aloe trichosantha subsp. trichosantha 54 

Aloe tri gon antha 66, 77, 83 

Aloe vera 45, 46, 52 

Aloe vituensis 108 

Aloe welmelensis 43, 44, 104, 106 

Aloe weloensis 43, 61 

Aloe wrefordii 87 

Aloe yavellana 25, 90, 102 

Alstonia boonei 29 

ALSTROEMERIACEAE 38 

AMARYLLIDACEAE 18, 21, 22, 27, 28, 38, 162, 183, 260 

AMARYLLIS 163 

Amaryllis zeylanicum 175 

AMMOCHARIS 162, 177 

Ammocharis tinneana 18, 177 

ANDROCYMBIUM 217 

Androcymbium striatum 217 

ANOGEISSUS 221, 309 

Anogeissus leiocarpa 20 

Anthemis tigreensis 30 

ANTHERICACEAE 18, 20, 21, 22, 25, 29, 111, 127, 128 

ANTHERICUM 110, 125, 127, 

129, 130, 132, 133, 135, 136, 143, 147, 148, 154, 156, 158, 159, 185 

Anthericum angustifolium 22, 129, 130, 134 

Anthericum corymbosum 130, 131 

Anthe ricum jamesii 128, 131 

Anthe ricum liliago 129 

Anthericum neghellense 18, 128, 129, 130, 132, 133, 135 

Anthe ricum racemosum 129 

Anthe ricum tetraphyllum 128, 129, 130, 133 

Antholyza abyssinica 254 

Antholyza schweinfurthii 255 

Apodytes dimidiata 22 

ARACEAE 319 

ARECACEAE 34 

Argomuellera macrophylla 287 

ARISTEA 226, 232 

Aristea abyssinica 23, 226


Aristea alata 226 

Aristea angolensis 24, 227 

ARISTIDA 17 

Arundinaria alpina 27 

ASPARAGACEAE 18, 27, 289 

Asparagopsis flagellaris 295 

Aspara gopsis setacea 294 

ASPARAGUS 289, 290, 294, 303 

Asparagus abyssinicus 295 

Asparagus aethiopicus 298 

Asparagus aethiopicus cultivar ‘Sprengeri’ 290 

Asparagus africanus 289, 292, 293, 294 

Asparagus aridicola 18, 296, 297, 298 

Asparagus asparagoides 27, 303 

Asparagus aspergillus 290, 302, 303 

Asparagus buchananii 290, 302, 303 

Asparagus falcatus 296 

Asparagus fal catus var. ternifolius 297 

Asparagus flagellaris 295 

Asparagus horridus 290 

Asparagus leptocladodius 18, 290, 301 

Asparagus natalensis 297, 298 

Asparagus officinalis 290 

Asparagus plumosus 294 

Asparagus racemosus 300, 302 

Asparagus scaberulus 18, 293 

Asparagus schweinfurthii 295 

Asparagus setaceus 294 

Asparagus sprengeri 290 

Asparagus subgenus Asparagus 289 

Asparagus subgenus Myrsiphyllum 289 

ASPHODELACEAE 18, 24, 31, 42, 110, 111, 125 

ASPHODELUS 110 

ASTROLOBA 42 

ATRIPLEX 36 

Avicennia marina 36 

BALANITES 18, 95 

Baphia abyssinica 29 

Barbeya oleoides 24, 25, 299 

BARBEYACEAE 24 

BARLERIA 18 

Berchemia discolor 25 

Boo pha ne fischeri 286 

Borassus aethiopium 20 

BOS WELLIA 16, 309, 312 

Boswellia ogadenensis 16 

Boswellia papyrifera 20, 311 

BOWIAEA 185 

Breonardia salicifolia 32 

BULBINE 110, 111, 121, 122, 123 

Bulbine abyssinica 18, 121, 271 

BURSERACEAE 20 

BUXUS 280 

Cadia purpurea 25 

Caperonia serrata 20


CAPPARACEAE 36 

Carissa spinarum 23 

CELTIS 287 

Celtis africana 22 

Celtis toka 29 

CHAMAEALOE 42 

CHENOPODIACEAE 35, 36 

Chenopodium album 34 

CHLOROPHYTUM 4, 5, 25, 128, 129, 

132, 133, 135, 136, 140, 143, 145, 147, 148, 150, 154, 156, 158, 159 

Chlorophytum affine 136, 155 

Chlorophytum affine var. curviscapum 155 

Chlorophytum andongense 157 

Chlorophytum bifolium 128, 145 

Chlorophytum blepharophyllum 161 

Chlorophytum cameronii 20, 156 

Chlorophytum comosum 128, 157, 158, 159 

Chlorophytum ducis-aprutii 127, 128, 142 

Chlorophytum filipendulum 136, 160, 161 

Chlorophytum gallabatense 151, 153 

Chlorophytum geophilum 139 

Chlorophytum herrmanni 21, 128, 136, 151 

Chlorophytum humi fusum 128, 150 

Chlorophytum inconspicuum 128, 147 

Chlorophytum longifolium 127, 140, 141, 142 

Chlorophytum macrophyllum 20, 29, 158, 159, 160 

Chlorophytum micranthum 152 

Chlorophytum neghellense 136 

Chlorophytum nubicum 142, 143 

Chlorophytum pendulum 21, 128, 153 

Chlo ro phytum pseudocaule 128, 136, 157 

Chlorophytum pterocarpum 18, 128, 146 

Chlorophytum pusillum 140 

Chlorophytum serpens 21, 128, 136, 158, 159 

Chlorophytum silva ti cum 140, 141 

Chlorophytum somaliense 18, 144 

Chlorophytum sparsiflorum 158 

Chlorophytum subpetiolatum 154 

Chlorophytum tenui florum 144 

Chlorophytum tetraphyllum 136 

Chlorophytum tordense 136, 155 

Chlorophytum tuberosum 147 

Chlorophytum viridescens 157 

Chlorophytum zavattarii 18, 128, 148 

Cladostigma dioicum 25 

Clutia abyssinica 23 

COLCHICACEAE 210 

COLCHICUM 211, 218 

COMBRETACEAE 20 

COMBRETUM 16, 20, 66, 

100, 101, 104, 121, 131, 132, 145, 148, 149, 152, 153, 156, 159, 161, 

182, 190, 213, 245, 251, 267, 273, 278, 285, 288, 296, 298, 311, 317 

Combretum adenogonium 20 

Combretum collinum 20, 101 

Combretum hartmanianum 20


Combretum molle 20 

Combretum rochetianum 20 

COMMIPHORA 16, 17, 18, 25, 68, 73, 75, 94, 95, 98, 108, 

109, 221, 222, 125, 126, 132, 141, 145, 146, 149, 150, 152, 153, 156, 

178, 213, 247, 280, 285, 294, 296, 298, 299, 302, 309, 312, 327, 329 

Commiphora longipedicellata 16 

Commiphora samharensis 16 

Commiphora unilobata 16 

CRINUM 170, 171, 173, 174, 175, 162, 176, 177 

Crinum abyssinicum 22, 172, 176, 177 

Crinum bambusetum 21, 170, 172, 173, 174, 177 

Crinum macowanii 174, 175 

Crinum ornatum 175, 176 

Crinum × powelli 171 

Crinum schimperi 177 

Crinum subcernuum 173 

Crinum zeylanicum 176 

Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 224 

CROCUS 223 

CROTON 18 

Croton dichogamus 18 

Croton macrostachyus 22 

CURCULIGO 260, 261, 262, 269, 270 

Curculigo pilosa 269 

CUSSONIA 309 

Cyathea manniana 27 

CYATHEACEAE 27 

CYMBOPOGON 20, 157 

CYPERUS 157 

Cyperus denudatus 34 

Cyperus dichroostachys 34 

Cyperus digitatus 34 

Dactyloctenium aegyptium 16 

Dalbergia melanoxylon 20 

DASYSTACHYS 140, 141 

DELONIX 125 

DICHRO STACHYS 221 

DIERAMA 234 

Dierama cupuliflorum 234 

DIETES 223 

DIOSCOREA 305, 306, 309 

Dioscorea abyssinica 21, 306, 316, 318 

Dioscorea alata 306, 315 

Dioscorea bul bifera 312, 313 

Dioscorea cayenensis 306, 315, 316, 317 

Dioscorea cochleari-apiculata 21, 306, 309, 311 

Dioscorea dumetorum 306, 309, 310, 311 

Dioscorea esculenta 306 

Dioscorea gil let tii 306, 312, 313 

Dioscorea praehensislis 316 

Dioscorea quar tiniana 306, 309 

Dioscorea rotundata 306, 316 

Dioscorea sagit tifolia 316, 318 

Dioscorea sagittifolia var. lecardii 318 

Dioscorea schimperiana 306, 314


DIOSCOREACEAE 21, 305 

Diospyros abyssinica 29 

Diospyros mespiliformis 32 

DIPCADI 183, 186, 187 

Dipcadi erlangeri 187 

Dipcadi marlothii 188 

Dipcadi minimum 187 

Dipcadi rupicola 187 

Dipcadi tacazzeanum 187 

Dipcadi viride 187, 188 

DODONAEA 221 

DRACAENA 274, 275, 278 

Dracaena afromontana 27, 276, 277, 281 

Dracaena draco 274 

Dracaena ellenbeckiana 18, 276, 277, 281 

Dracaena fragrans 29, 278 

Dracaena ombet 279 

Dracaena ombet subsp. ombet 280 

Dracaena ombet subsp. schizantha 280 

Dra cae na schizantha 280 

Dracaena steudneri 22, 281 

DRACAENACEAE 18, 22, 27, 29, 274 

DRIMIA 183, 184, 196, 198, 199, 201 

Drimia altissima 199 

Drimia exigua 184, 197 

Drimia indica 199 

Drimia simensis 184, 198 

DRIMIOPSIS 183, 184, 188, 189, 191 

Drimi opsis barteri 189 

Drimiopsis botryoides 190 

Drimiopsis spicata 184, 189, 190 

ECHINOCHLOA 20 

Eichornia crassipes 33 

Eichornia natans 33 

Ekebergia capensis 27 

Entada abyssinica 314 

ERICA 30 

Erica arborea 30 

Erica trimera 30 

ERIOCAULON 34 

ERIOSPERMACEAE 271 

ERIOSPERMUM 271 

Eriospermum abyssinicum 272 

Eriospermum hetero phyllum 273 

Eriospermum triphyllum 273 

EUCALYPTUS 266 

EUCLEA 93, 221 

Euclea racemosa subsp. schimperi 23 

Euclea schimperi 104 

EUPHORBIA 16, 18 

Euphorbia ampliphylla 27 

Euphorbia awashensis 18 

Euphorbia burgeri 18 

Euphorbia candelabrum 18 

Euphorbia cryptocaulis 18


Euphorbia gymnocalycioides 18 

Euphorbia monacantha 18 

EUPHORBIACEAE 20 

FABACEAE 20 

FESTUCA 31 

Festuca gilbertiana 31 

Festuca macrophylla 31 

FICUS 22 

Ficus sur 27 

Ficus sycomorus 32, 101 

Ficus vallis-choudae 287 

Floscopa glomerata 34 

Flueggea virosa 93 

FREESIA 223 

GASTERIA 42 

Geissorhiza abyssinica 231 

Geranium arabicum 30 

GETHYLLIS 270 

GLADIOLUS 223, 224, 241, 246, 253, 254, 255, 259 

Gladiolus abyssinicus 253, 254, 255 

Gladiolus balensis 224, 244 

Gladiolus boranensis 247 

Gladiolus calcicola 224, 246, 247 

Gladiolus candidus 253, 258, 259 

Gladiolus dalenii 248, 256 

Gladiolus da le nii subsp. andong en sis 248, 250, 256 

Gladiolus da le nii subsp. dalenii 248, 249 

Gladiolus gunnisii 252, 253, 258, 259 

Gladiolus lithicola 224, 257 

Gladiolus longispathaceus 224, 253 

Gladiolus mensensis 224, 246, 247 

Gladiolus murielae 253, 258, 259 

Gladiolus negeliensis 224, 245 

Gladiolus pauciflorus 252 

Gladiolus roseolus 250 

Gladiolus schweinfurthii 255 

Gladiolus su danicus 248, 256 

GLORIOSA 211, 212, 214, 215 

Gloriosa baudii 211, 214 

Gloriosa minor 214 

Gloriosa simplex 212 

Gloriosa superba 212, 214 

Grewia ferruginea 23 

HAEMANTHUS 164, 166, 169 

Haem an thus fax-imperi 170 

Haemanthus multiflorus 167 

Hallea rubrostipulata 27 

Haplocarpha ruppellii 30 

HAWORTHIA 42 

HELICHRYSUM 31 

Helichrysum citrispinum 30 

Helichrysum formosissimum 30 

Helichrysum gofense 30 

Helichrysum splendidum 30 

Helmia dumetorum 311


HESPERANTHA 235 

Hesperantha petitiana 30, 31, 235 

HETEROPOGON 18 

HIPPEASTRUM 162, 163 

HOMERIA 224 

HYACINTHACEAE 18, 183, 188 

HYA CINTHUS 187, 195 

Hymenostigma schim peri 229 

HYPARRHENIA 18, 20, 157 

Hypericum revolutum 30 

Hyphaene thebaica 20 

HYP O XI DA CEAE 38, 260, 162, 325 

HYPOXIS 260, 261, 262, 263, 269, 270, 326 

Hypoxis abyssinica 265, 266, 267 

Hypoxis angustifolia 262, 264, 265 

Hypoxis angustifolia var. luzuloides 265 

Hypoxis boranensis 266, 267 

Hypoxis fischeri 268 

Hypoxis multiflora 268 

Hypoxis neghellensis 267 

Hypoxis schimperi 262, 264, 265 

Hypoxis tristycha 267 

Hypoxis villosa 262 

IPHIGENIA 210, 219 

Iphigenia abyssi nica 220 

Iphigenia oliveri 221 

Iphigenia pauciflora 211, 220 

IRIDACEAE 21, 23, 24, 30, 31, 38, 223, 260 

IRIS 223, 224 

Iris germanica 224 

Iris pallida 224 

ISOETES 117 

JODRELLIA 110, 111, 122 

Jodrellia fistulosa 122, 123, 124 

Jodrellia macrocarpa 111, 122, 123 

Jodrellia migiurtina 123, 124 

Juncus dregeanus 34 

JUNIPERUS 22, 85, 131, 141, 247 

Juniperus procera 22, 23, 26, 126 

KNIPHOFIA 110, 111, 112, 114 

Kniphofia comosa 114 

Kniphofia foliosa 31, 111, 114, 115 

Kniphofia hildebrandtii 111, 116 

Kniphofia insignis 24, 111, 118 

Kniphofia isoetifolia 111, 113, 117 

Kniphofia pumila 113, 114, 115, 117 

Kniphofia schimperi 111, 119, 120 

Kniphofia thomsonii 119, 120 

KOTCHYA 157 

LANNEA 20, 278 

Lannea barteri 20 

Lannea fruticosa 20 

LAPEIROUSIA 224, 230, 231 

Lapeirousia abyssinica 224, 231 

Lapeirousia schimperi 231, 232


Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius 29 

LEDEBOURIA 183, 189, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195 

Ledebouria cordifolia 194, 196 

Ledebouria edulis 193 

Ledebouria kirkii 18, 192, 193 

Ledebouria revoluta 195 

Ledebouria somaliensis 184, 192, 193 

Ledebouria urceolata 184, 194 

Lemna aequinoctalis 33 

Lemna gibba 33 

Lemna minor 33 

LILIACEAE 38, 39 

LILIUM 38 

LITTONIA 212, 215 

Littonia baudii 214 

Littonia har deggeri 216 

Littonia minor 216 

Littonia revoilii 211, 216 

Lobelia rhynchopetalum 31 

LOMATOPHYLLUM 42 

Lonchocarpus laxiflorus 20 

Ludwigia abyssinica 34 

Maesa lanceolata 23 

Malacantha alnifolia 29 

MARANTHACEAE 20 

MEDEOLA 303 

Medeola aspara g oides 303 

MERENDERA 211, 217, 218 

Merendera abyssinica 218 

Merendera schimperiana 211, 217, 218 

Mimusops kummel 32 

MIZONIA 181 

Montbretia crocosmiiflora 224 

MORAEA 228 

Moraea schimperi 24, 229 

Moraea stricta 229 

Moraea tellinii 229 

Morella salicifolia 23 

Morus mesozygia 29 

Mycobacterium tuberculosis 45 

Myrsine melanophloeos 30 

NARCISSUS 163 

Nymphaea lotus 34 

Ocotea kenyensis 27 

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata 22, 23, 25 

Olea europaea 280 

Olea welwitschii 27 

Olinia rochetiana 22 

ORNITHOGALUM 183, 184, 199, 203, 204 

Ornithogalum donaldsonii 204 

Ornithogalum gracillimum 203 

Ornithogalum tenuifolium 204 

ORYZA 20 

Oryza longistaminata 20 

OXYTENAN THERA 317


Oxytenanthera abyssinica 20, 67, 157, 173 

PANCRATIUM 162, 178, 179, 181 

Pancratium centrale 21, 179, 181 

Pancratium maritimum 179 

Pancratium tenuifolium 179 

Pancratium tortuosum 181 

Pancratium tri anthum 179 

PANDANUS 325 

PANICUM 18 

Panicum turgidum 17 

PEPEROMIA 27 

Persicaria decipiens 34 

Phillipia trimera 30 

Phoenix reclinata 32, 34 

Pilistigma thonningii 20 

Pistacia aethiopica 25 

Pistacia falcata 25 

Pistia stratiotes 33 

POA 31 

Poa chokensis 31 

Poa hedbergii 31 

Poa simensis 31 

POA CEAE 36 

PODOCARPUS 22, 26, 54, 265 

Podocarpus falcatus 22, 26, 27 

POELNIZIA 42 

Polyscias fulva 27 

Pouteria adolfi-friederici 27 

Pouteria alnifolia 29 

Pouteria altissima 29 

Prunus africana 22 

Pterocarpus lucens 20 

Ranunculus multifidus 34 

Rhizophora mucronata 36 

Rhus natalensis 23 

Rhus na tal ensis 93 

ROMULEA 236 

Romulea came rooniana 237, 238 

Romulea congoensis 239 

Romulea fischeri 30, 31, 237, 238 

Romulea keniensis 239 

Romulea schimperi 30, 31 

SALICORNIA 36 

Salix sub serrata 32 

SALVADORACEAE 36 

SANSEVIERIA 71, 283, 274, 286, 287 

Sansevieria ehrenbergii 283, 284 

Sansevieria erythraeae 286 

Sansevieria fischeri 286 

Sansevieria forskaoliana 283, 287 

Sansevieria nilotica 287 

Sansevieria phillipsiae 284, 285 

Sapium ellipticum 27 

SCADOXUS 162, 164, 166, 167, 169 

Scadoxus bivalvis 168


Scadoxus cyrtanthiflorus 167 

Scadoxus multiflorus 22, 164, 165, 167, 169, 170 

Scadoxus multiflorus subsp. multiflorus 168 

Scadoxus nutans 27, 28, 164, 165, 166 

Scadoxus puniceus 164, 165, 169, 170 

Schefflera abyssinica 27 

SCHIZOBASIS 183, 183, 185, 196 

Schizobasis intricata 185 

Schrebera alata 25 

SCILLA 133, 189, 191, 192, 193, 194, 199 

Sclerocarya birrea 20 

Senecio schultzii 30 

SETARIA 18, 20 

SMILACACEAE 27, 29, 321 

Smila ci na forskaoliana 287 

SMILAX 321 

Smilax anceps 27, 29, 322 

Smilax aspera 323 

SORGHUM 20 

Spirodela polyrrhiza 33 

SPOROBOLUS 18 

STEREOSPERMUM 317 

Stereospermum kunthianum 20, 314 

STIPAGROSTIS 17 

Suaeda monoica 35, 36 

Syzygium guineense 32 

TACCA 319 

Tacca leontopetaloides 320 

TACCACEAE 319 

TALBOTIA 325 

Tamarindus indica 32 

Tamarix nilotica 32 

Tarchonanthus camphoratus 25, 299 

TECLEA 296 

Teclea nobilis 22, 23 

TERMINALIA 16, 20, 66, 100, 101, 104, 126, 

148, 152, 156, 159, 182, 190, 213, 221, 222, 251, 273, 296, 311, 317 

Terminalia schimperiana 20 

Thalia geniculata 20 

Tiliachora troupinii 27 

TRACHYANDRA 110, 111, 125, 127 

Trachyandra saltii 125 

Trichilia dregeana 318 

Trichilia emetica 32 

Trichilia prieureana 29 

Trifolium acaule 30 

Trifolium burchellianum 30 

Trilepisium madagascariense 29 

Tri to nia mensensis 246 

Tritonia schim peri 232 

URGINEA 196, 198, 199 

VELLOZIA 325, 328 

VELLOZIACEAE 325 

Vepris dainellii 22 

Vitex doniana 20


WATSONIA 223 

Wolffia arrhiza 33 

XEROPHYTA 325, 326 

Xerophyta humilis 328 

Xerophyta rippsteinii 328 

Xerophyta schnizleinia 326, 328 

Xerophyta schnizleinia var. schnizleinia 327 

Xerophyta schnizleinia var. somaliense 328 

Xerophyta spekei 329 

XYRIS 34 

Zanha golungensis 29 

Zanthoxylum leprieurii 29 

ZEPHYRANTHES 162, 163 

ZYGOPHYLLACEAE 36 

ZYGOTRITONIA 240 

Zygotritonia praecox 21, 240

INDEX TO PLANT NAMES 

351

352 ALOACEAE

ALOE 

353

354 ALOACEAE

Professor Sebsebe Demissew 

(Leader of the Ethiopian Flora 

Project & Keeper of the National 

Herbarium, Biology Department, 

Science Faculty, Addis Ababa 

University, Addis Ababa), was born 

in Shewa in 1953. He obtained his 

BSc. and MSc. degrees from the 

University of Addis Ababa in 1978 

and 1980 respectively, and his 

PhD degree from the University 

of Uppsala, Sweden, in 1985. He 

is one of the leading experts in 

the flora of the region, and he is 

also the author of many scientific 

articles in the field. 

Professor Inger Nordal (staff 

member of the Department 

of Biology, University of Oslo, 

Norway) was born in Oslo in 

1944. She obtained her BSc. and 

MSc. degrees from the University 

of Oslo in 1967 and 1969, 

respectively, and her PhD degree 

from the University of Uppsala, 

Sweden, in 1977. She is a leading 

expert of systematics within lilies 

in the wide sense, and she has 

contributed to several regional 

floras in Tropical Africa.

Aloes and Lilies of Ethiopia and Eritrea

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