Muraltia


Muraltia is a genus of plants in the milkwort family which is native to Southern and Eastern Africa. Most species are endemic to South Africa and 1 species is naturalized in Australia. It is named after Johnnes von Muralt, a Swiss botanist and surgeon.
In 2006, the genus Nylandtia, which contained 2 species, was merged into Muraltia. The 2 species formerly part of Nylandtia, Muraltia scoparia and Muraltia spinosa. are commonly known as "Tortoise berry" plants. This is because of the bright edible berries that they produce, which are relished by the tortoise species of the fynbos.

Description

Muraltia are perennial, ericoid shrublets or shrubs. Their small flowers and sessile or have short stalks. usually have 3 petals and 5 sepals which are usually subequal. Their fruits contain 2 seeds. Their capsules are flat, membranous, and usually 4-horned. Its seeds are pubescent.

Species

As of July 2020, there are 118 accepted Muraltia species: