MAKHADO – The total dedication of local horticultural enthusiast Kevin Zeelie to a mystery plant which he received as a gift from legendary Mary Scheepers of Whispering Mist in Magoebaskloof, may soon culminate in a sophisticated friendly newcomer to the in-door and potplant scene in South Africa.

The plant, which is still without an official name, has remarkable, almost fleshy dark green leaves with strikingly prominent platinum coloured markings. When in bloom, it displays a bunch of delicate pale blue flowers.

The solitary, small jewel-like plant in the Whispering Mist nursery was shown to Kevin by Mary Scheepers and he was asked to identify it.

“We were both intrigued by the unknown little stranger. When she saw how excited I was about the little plant, she gave it to me.”

Ever since Kevin did everything possible to get the plant identified and to preserve and multiply it. Collecting seed was difficult, because the ripe seed pods shoot open, spreading the small seeds.

No definitive identification could be made up to now. In the mean time Kevin has engaged all his skills to preserve and multiply the plant.

“It is as yet not available commercially,” he said. As soon as he is satisfied that he has it well established in sufficient numbers, Kevin intends to contact his friend Keith Kirsten and other horticulturists to assist in introducing the amazing little newcomer from the Magoebaskloof to the rest of South Africa.