(NOTE: Ameenah Gurib-Fakim stepped down as president of Mauritius in March 2018, following accusations that she misused a credit card given to her by a nonprofit. Read "Corrections & Updates" below for more details.) In this intriguing talk, biologist Ameenah Gurib-Fakim introduces us to rare plant species from isolated islands and regions of Africa. Meet the shape-shifting benjoin; the baume de l'ile plate, which might offer a new treatment for asthma; and the iconic baobab tree, which could hold the key to the future of food. Plus: monkey apples.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim: Humble plants that hide surprising secrets

Humble plants that hide surprising secrets

A leaf's shape-shifting defense against tortoises reveals nature's intricacies, showcasing evolution's response to predation.

Harnessing the baobab, the 'tree of life', could revolutionize food security with its nutrient-packed fruit and versatile uses.

Discover how Terminalia bentzoe, exclusive to Mauritius, combats bacterial threats, hinting at solutions to antibiotic resistance.