Capsule Collar

The capsule collar is a significant plant for settlements on the brink of deserts. They provide nutrients, moisture and even some healing abilities. They are easily recognized by their green coloration contrasting with the pale sand and their notable formation; the pearly leaves grow in circles, just like a necklace.

Basic Information

Anatomy

This plant is made up of a ring of thick, round leaves. They grow in rings made up of 5-8 "pearls", with additional rings around when it grows bigger. The capsule collar is jade green with lighter, more beige green spots and darker coloration on the underside, closer to a brown or rust red hue. The pearls have a thick matte outer layer and it is filled with a slightly translucent gel-like substance.

Genetics and Reproduction

The capsule collar reproduces by offsets. They shoot up from under the ground and are clones of the mother plant.

Growth Rate & Stages

The mother plant shoots out roots that become a small offset under ground. It emerges above ground and grows in size and number of pearls. When it has grown to about 3 cm tall, the plant starts to develop offsets as a ring around itself. A new string of pearls emerges around the first.

The biggest capsule collar recorded had 5 rings, with a total diameter of 37 cm.

Ecology and Habitats

This plant grows in an arid climate, in sand and rocky terrain. They like to grow on the east side of dunes and rocks.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Because of the environment this plant grows in, water and moisture is scarce. In the night and morning, the form of the plant catches moisture in the middle of its ring. It also sucks up moisture and other nutrients from its roots. The moisture is stored in the pearls, and if they become to dry they crinkle and turn soft.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The capsule collar is sought after by inhabitants in arid climates, as it provides both nutrients and moisture. The capsule collar is used in cooking, mostly by boiling the pearls in low heat or steaming them. They have a slightly bitter taste, but that can be remedied by mixing it with other ingredients.

The healing capacity of the plant is low, but widely used. The gel inside the pearls have a cooling effect and can treat minor burns and rashes.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

It grows in dry and arid areas, usually in sand or dirt.

by Agnes Eriksson

Also known as
Pearl necklace

Average Height

3 cm

Average Length

15 cm Ø on the collar
2-3 cm Ø on an individual capsule

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The plant is green; lighter green on the top and rusty red/brown near the bottom.

Geographic Distribution

• J'ru Desert
• P'tin

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