A Plant That Lives for Thousands of Years
The Welwitschia mirabilis, also known as the tree tumbo, has been informally referred to as a "living fossil." It is composed of two leaves, a stem, and roots. According to the South African National Biodiversity Institute, this plant has one extremely unique feature that distinguishes it from other living organisms.
Outliving Generations
"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."