Breath Of Heaven
(Diosma subulata)
Breath Of Heaven (Diosma subulata)
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Biodiversity Heritage Library
PDM 1.0
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Biodiversity Heritage Library
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PDM 1.0
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Photo by: Biodiversity Heritage Library | License Type: PDM 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/ | Uploader: BioDivLibrary | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Diosma subulata, commonly known as Breath Of Heaven, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos region of Southwestern South Africa, where it thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers. It typically grows to a height of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) and a width of 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters). The plant has a fine, needle-like foliage that emits a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed, and its small, star-shaped flowers come in shades of purple, pink, red, and white, blooming profusely in the spring. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy en masse due to their abundance.
Breath Of Heaven is valued for its delicate, airy appearance and the year-round interest it provides in the garden. It is often used in rock gardens, as a border plant, or in mass plantings for a textured effect. This shrub is drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally easy to maintain, Diosma subulata can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also sensitive to hard frosts, which can damage the foliage. Pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact shape and encourages bushier growth.CC BY-SA 4.0
Breath Of Heaven is valued for its delicate, airy appearance and the year-round interest it provides in the garden. It is often used in rock gardens, as a border plant, or in mass plantings for a textured effect. This shrub is drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires well-drained soil. While generally easy to maintain, Diosma subulata can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also sensitive to hard frosts, which can damage the foliage. Pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact shape and encourages bushier growth.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-5 feet
- Width: 2-3.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple, Pink, Red, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Border Plant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the fynbos region of Southwestern South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: False Buchu, Diosma, Buchu
Scientific Names: , Diosma subulata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Diosma subulata J.C.Wendl.