38 Incredible Things You Never Knew Existed
Sometimes, reality is stranger than fiction. Other times, reality straight-up seems like fiction. We're not talking about magic and mermaids and knights in shining armor—we're talking about the strangest little-known things on the planet. A 1,500-year-old plant, an island full of adoptable dogs, even a machine that prints brick roads. Yes, the world is full of amazing, astonishing, truly incredible things you never knew existed. Herein, we've rounded up our 50 favorites that will make your head spin. And for more incredible trivia, check out the 38 Amazing Facts Guaranteed to Make You full of Smile.
A plant that lives for thousands of years
Found in the Namib Desert, the Welwitschia Mirabilis consists of two leaves, a stem base, and roots, according to the South African National Biodiversity Institute. "Carbon dating tells us that on average, welwitschias are 500 to 600 years old, although some of the larger specimens are thought to be 2,000 years old," the Institute writes. "Their estimated lifespan is 400 to 1,500 years. Growth occurs annually during the summer months."
