The Halfmens

Yes truly, the name of this incredible plant/succulent is Halfmens (pachypodium namaquanum) They are a rare and unique endemic succulent, only in the South African province of the Northern Caoe (Richtersveld) and in SW Namibia.   I've only captured a close-up of the 'head' here, which top a very long round and rough trunk. The flower would be about 6" across. They only grow about 2-3mm a year, and may reach a height of 3m when mature.

According to Nama folklore the ancient Nama people that fled from Namibia southward to this region were transformed into these half human trees. The 'head' of these trees always faces the north and is a reminder of those people looking longingly towards the beloved land they left behind.

From a distance, these trees really look like human figures staring toward the north. But science says that the reason they lean over in the direction is to give maximum exposure of their rosette of leaves to the sun during winter.