A Neiv Species of Mesembrianthemum from the Transvaal. 371 
This plant has since been collected along the diamondiferous gravels 
near Bloemhof. It thus appears to be confined to the shallow depression 
(valley it can scarcely be called) of the Vaal Eiver, for a considerable 
distance of its course. So far I have only found it among pebbles, the 
colouring and appearance of which it so closely simulates that it requires 
considerable practice to detect the plants ; when once recognised, how- 
ever, the regularity of outline distinguishes them from the pebbles. 
The body of the leaf is about an inch high, and is embedded in the 
soil, so that only the truncated apex is visible. The leaves are renewed 
yearly, a new pair pushing out from between, and at right angles to, the 
old ones, the latter rapidly losing their succulence and withering away, 
having the appearance of a dried sheath surrounding the new leaves. 
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