Socotran Pomegranate (Punica protopunica)

Socotran Pomegranate (Punica protopunica)

A vibrant, healthy and quite tall Punica protopunica, found next to the walls of the north east of Socotra. These vertical cliffs provide shade and moisture…


Geranium biuncinatum

Geranium biuncinatum

The vertical cliffs of the north-east Socotra are home to many plant species that thrive in the protective shadow of the tall cliffs, which also provide water…


Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)

Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)

An invasive species, introduced by humans. Native range is Texas to Central America, Caribbean.


Christ's Thorn Jujube (Ziziphus spina-christi)

Christ’s Thorn Jujube (Ziziphus spina-christi)

A very popular fruit with Socotris. I have yet to taste one, as these lovely fruits were out of reach for me to pick. Native range is Africa, Arabia to…


Socotran Desert Rose (Adenium obesum ssp. socotranum)

Socotran Desert Rose (Adenium obesum ssp. socotranum)

The unmistakable fruit of the Socotran desert rose. I encountered plenty of fruits during this visit to Socotra, but only 2-3 with open follicles and…


Namaqua Fig (Ficus cordata)

Namaqua Fig (Ficus cordata)

A large and mature specimen with signs of past droughts as many branches were dead. This is a species found in drier areas in Socotra, on cliffs along valleys…


Euphorbia schimperi

Euphorbia schimperi

A common species in shrubland and seen in all stages of growth depending on the the location. Here it is blooming and is active, whilst in another location…


Cissus hamaderohensis

Cissus hamaderohensis

This mature specimen is using a croton socotranus as support to reach high above ground. It's easily identified by the rectangular stem. This individual both…


Euphorbia socotrana

Euphorbia socotrana

A beautiful specimen, vibrant with life and energy due to sufficient moisture this winter. It is endemic, which means it grows nowhere else on Earth. This is…