Wild Rosemary
(Eriocephalus africanus)
Wild Rosemary (Eriocephalus africanus)
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SAplants
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CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by: SAplants | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: SAplants | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |































Estimated Native Range
Summary
Eriocephalus africanus var. paniculatus, commonly known as Wild Rosemary, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos and rocky slopes in the Cape of South Africa. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). This plant has a rounded, bushy form with fine, needle-like leaves that are highly aromatic when crushed. The flowers are small, with fluffy white to pale purple tufts, blooming in the spring and attracting a variety of pollinators. The showiness of the flowers, while not striking from a distance, adds a delicate texture to the plant up close.
Wild Rosemary is valued for its drought tolerance and aromatic foliage, which is reminiscent of true rosemary and is used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb. It is suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a low hedge or border plant in water-wise gardens. For optimal growth, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained soil. While it tolerates medium amounts of water, it is adapted to dry conditions and can thrive with less frequent watering once established. It is not known for having aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. In regions with similar climates to its native habitat, it can be a low-maintenance addition to the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0
Wild Rosemary is valued for its drought tolerance and aromatic foliage, which is reminiscent of true rosemary and is used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb. It is suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a low hedge or border plant in water-wise gardens. For optimal growth, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained soil. While it tolerates medium amounts of water, it is adapted to dry conditions and can thrive with less frequent watering once established. It is not known for having aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. In regions with similar climates to its native habitat, it can be a low-maintenance addition to the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
native to the fynbos and rocky slopes in the Cape of South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Roosmaryn
Scientific Names: , Eriocephalus africanus, Eriocephalus africanus var. paniculatus, Eriocephalus paniculatus, Eriocephalus umbellulatus, Eriocephalus sericeus, Eriocephalus umbellulatus var. glabriusculus, Eriocephalus umbellulatus var. argenteus, Eriocephalus umbellulatus subsp. argenteus, Eriocephalus umbellulatus subsp. glabriusculus
GBIF Accepted Name: Eriocephalus africanus var. paniculatus (Cass.) M.A.N.Müll., P.P.J.Herman & Kolberg