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Group:
Moncot
Estimated genome size:
50 to 100 cm in height
Size:
50 to 100 cm in height
Distribution:
Endemic to South Africa, the Miracle Clivia Lily is known to occur in the Oorlogskloof area near the town of Nieuwoudtville in the Northern Cape. The species has only been recorded in the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve, where two subpopulations are found on the Bokkeveldberge plateau.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
426.45 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
12.38 kilobases
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Genome Length:
15.12 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.3% [S: 69.9%, D: 29.4%]
Importance:
Clivia mirabilis survives in an unusually arid environment compared with other Clivia species, which is why it is known as the “miracle lily”. Its distinctive hardiness has made it desirable for breeders seeking to improve ornamental Clivia lines. However, heavy illegal poaching has removed thousands of plants from the wild. This leaves the remaining population dangerously small and at risk of extinction in its natural habitat.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Felix Middleton
Clivia Society of South Africa
Group:
Eudicot
Estimated genome size:
Size:
0.3 - 0.5 m
Distribution:
This species is endemic and widespread across western South Africa, from the Richtersveld to Clanwilliam.
PromethION Sequencing Report:
Output:
66.57 Gigabases
Approximate N50:
16.39 kilobases
Assembly N50:
48 987.56 kilobases
Contig number:
1 473
Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:
Assembler used:
Hifiasm
Genome Length:
0.57 Gigabases
BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):
99.8% [S: 89.9%, D: 9.9%]
BUSCO database:
viridiplantae
Pelargonium echinatum
Prickly-stemmed
pelargonium
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Importance:
Prickly-stemmed pelargonium is among the most beautiful winterflowering pelargoniums. Traditionally, South African tribes have used Pelargonium species to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, wounds, fever, colds, sore throats, and urinary issues, to name a few. The essential oil from Pelargonium species is highly valued for its rose like fragrance with minty notes, widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy. Known for its calming and balancing properties, it helps relieve anxiety, fatigue, and depression, while also benefiting skin care and respiratory health.
Sample Contributor contact details:
Mr Thabang Makola
South African National Biodiversity Institute
Date Published:
2025-12-01
Photo credit:
© T. Makola
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