Socotra holds at least 9 endemic species of Boswellia, which is a spectacular feat! They are incredible survivalists and most of them cling to bare rock as this one is, halfway into a shallow cave.

The foliage is lush and is a clear sign of recent rains. Yet it is perhaps their flowers that are most eye-catching.

Elevation: 693 meters.

This is the complete list of all the 10 Boswellia species found in the Socotra Archipelago:

Boswellia ameero
Boswellia asplenifolia
Boswellia bullata
Boswellia dioscoridis
Boswellia elongata
Boswellia nana
Boswellia popoviana
Boswellia scopulorum
Boswellia socotrana

Found only on the island of Samha:
Boswellia samhaensis

In addition there are numerous hybrids and varieties that will keep botanists busy.

Read more:
The challenges in seed regeneration of the endemic Boswellia species on Socotra.

A summary of 13 research papers spanning twenty years of biodiversity research and nature conservation in the Socotra Archipelago.

Last Updated on 14 October, 2023 by morten