Raphionacme hirsuta

It is a definitely unusual plant, consisting of a massive and imposing caudex that reaches a diameter of over 30 cm, often assuming asymmetrical, discoidal or vaguely spherical shapes with a woody and rough appearance like the bark of a tree. The large caudiciform tuber, in addition to giving the plant a remarkable ornamental effect, acts as a fundamental water reserve to be exploited in periods of drought. Annual herbaceous stems that reach 20-30 cm emerge from the top of the caudex, covered with a short hair that gives the species the name "hirsuta", from ancient Latin "hairy"; the stems are adorned with small ovate-shaped petiolate leaves of a brilliant emerald green, which contrast nicely with the peculiar star-shaped flowers of a vibrant blue or purplish color.