Rare spiky plant flowers at Eden

Rare spiky plant flowers at Eden

Kalahari bushmen have eaten Hoodia plants for centuries

A rare plant which researchers believe could help combat obesity has flowered at the Eden Project in Cornwall.

It is thought to be the first time that the succulent Hoodia plant, which was grown by horticulturalists at Eden's nursery, has flowered in the UK.

The Hoodia has been eaten for centuries by San bushmen of the Kalahari to suppress their appetite while hunting.

Research is being undertaken into the possibility of the plant being used in the production of anti-obesity drugs.