Karoo Pumpkin (Radyera urens)

Family Malvaceae  

An unusual plant found only in the arid Karoo regions. 

  I was informed not to touch it as the hairs are an irritant to the skin but can find no information on it to confirm this. Apparently no animals eat it either.

 It belongs to the hibiscus family.

The flowers are hidden under the large leaves and I can only presume that because of the heat in this area, it is the only shade around.