A Plant That Lives for Thousands of Years
Found in the Namib Desert, the Welwitschia Mirabilis consists of two leaves, a stem base, and roots, according to the South African National Biodiversity Institute.
“Carbon dating tells us that on average, welwitschias are 500 to 600 years old, although some of the larger specimens are thought to be 2,000 years old,” the Institute writes.
“Their estimated lifespan is 400 to 1,500 years. Growth occurs annually during the summer months.”