II.V. Dirachma socotrana Schweinf ex Balf.f.

Dirachma socotrana is an endemic species to Socotra belonging to the Dirachmaceae family. D. socotrana was the only member in its genus until Dirachma somalensis was discovered in 1991. It is a small deciduous tree or shrub reaching about 3 m in height with white-colored flowers that bloom from March to April. Dirachma socotrana is something of a botanical curiosity, possessing an interesting mixture of characteristics. For example, the flowers have seven to eight petals, sepals and stamens—an unusual number in flowering plants, while the fruits closely resemble those found in Geranium. The area of distribution is restricted to the very small piece of the mountains, only 73 adult individuals are known and regeneration is completely absent.

Figure. Dirachma socotrana Schweinf ex Balf. fil.

Figure. Distribution map of Dirachma socotrana