For most of the year, the plant looks like its Afrikaans name, translated to baboon tail. Its blackened tails appear to be charred and dead.
But then from inside these blackened tails, first emerald-green spiky leaves appear and then a little later a profusion of delicate purple flowers.
They’re out on the Koppies now, but come quick before they’re gone. They only flower for several weeks.
And if you look northwards from the top of the Koppies you’ll also see blobs of purple Jacarandas blooming across the suburbs.
Melville Koppies Central (Nature Reserve and Heritage Site) is open every Sunday from 09:00 to 11:30 and there is no need to pre-book.
All income is used for the maintenance and security of the Koppies. Security on the Koppies is provided; park in secure parking opposite the entrance at Marks Park in Judith Road, Emmarentia.
Contact wendavid@mweb.co.za or visit www.mk.org.za for more detailed information about the history and what you can see.
