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(Phylica plumosa)
Featherhead (Phylica plumosa)
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Jeremy Gilmore
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Jeremy Gilmore
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jeremy Gilmore | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Jeremy Gilmore | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-07-17T14:32:22-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Phylica plumosa, commonly known as Featherhead, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos region of Southwestern South Africa. It typically reaches a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), forming a compact, rounded shape. Featherhead is characterized by its fine, feathery foliage and small, dense clusters of yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer, providing a soft, textural contrast in the garden. The plant’s overall appearance is delicate and airy, making the flowers quite showy despite their small size.
Featherhead is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping. It is often used in rock gardens, as a low hedge, or in mass plantings for its textural interest. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, and it requires well-drained soil. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser growth. Phylica plumosa is not commonly associated with serious pests or diseases, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Featherhead is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping. It is often used in rock gardens, as a low hedge, or in mass plantings for its textural interest. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, and it requires well-drained soil. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser growth. Phylica plumosa is not commonly associated with serious pests or diseases, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium, Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to the fynbos region of Southwestern South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Flannel Flower, Cape Myrtle, Flannel Bush, Veerkoppie
Scientific Names: , Phylica plumosa, Phylica plumosa var. plumosa, Phylica pumila, Phylica commelini,
GBIF Accepted Name: Phylica plumosa L.