PLANTS THAT ARE EXPERTS IN EXTREME CLIMATE CONDITIONS
This installation brings together a collection of plants that are experts in future climate scenarios. Plants have survived for 700 million years by adapting to extreme climatic conditions through symbiogenesis with the terrestrial system. Each plant has developed unique survival strategies to withstand the many forms of terrestrial extremes that have occurred at different times in the distant past. FIRE SEASON* explores a selection of resilient plants that reflect intrinsic abilities to survive and thrive in extreme climatic events.
Cyrtanthus ventricosus, commonly known as the fire lily, is a small deciduous bulbous plant that grows to a height of 100 to 250 mm. This plant can only flower after a fire, and after a delay of about nine days it produces scarlet flowers that resemble flames. Haworthia Fasciata, on the other hand, develops its fiery colours when exposed to extreme conditions, either abnormally hot or cold. FIRE SEASON is an illustrated collection and artistic exploration of plants, fire and climate change.
*FIRE SEASON is the dry season in areas with enough vegetation to be at risk of bush or forest fire.
1. FIREWEED
Post-disturbance species
In the UK, it is also known as bombweed, due to its rapid appearance at bombing sites after the Second World War.
2. FIRE LILY
Fire-activated seed
This plant can only flower after a fire; after a delay of around nine days, it produces scarlet flowers that evoke flames.
3. EUCALYPTUS
Active pyrophyte
Many eucalyptus species spread fires by producing flammable oils. Fire prevents other tree species from invading their habitat.
4. FIRE POPPY
Fire-activated seed
Flowers last only a few days at most. Seeds, once dispersed, can remain dormant for years; smoke acts as a trigger for germination.
5. BIRDFLOWER
Plant for fire risk areas
This plant is one of the species that thrives particularly well after fires. Seed germination can be artificially stimulated by immersion in boiling water.
