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(Phylica pubescens)
Featherhead (Phylica pubescens)
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Paul Hoekman
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Paul Hoekman
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Paul Hoekman | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Paul Hoekman | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-11-01T12:10:25-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Phylica pubescens, commonly known as Featherhead, 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 reaches a height and width of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters), respectively. Featherhead has a rounded, dense form with small, narrow leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving the plant a soft, velvety texture. The flowers are small, with a unique texture and coloration, presenting in shades of brown and cream during the fall and winter months. These flowers are not particularly showy but add a subtle charm to the plant’s overall appearance.
Phylica pubescens is valued for its drought tolerance and textural foliage, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens, rockeries, and coastal landscapes. It is also used in ecological restoration projects within its native range. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance once established, preferring full sun exposure and well-draining soils. While it tolerates low water conditions, occasional watering during prolonged dry spells can keep the plant looking its best. Featherhead is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot. It is not known for being invasive outside its native range, but as with all non-native plantings, gardeners should monitor its growth and spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Phylica pubescens is valued for its drought tolerance and textural foliage, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens, rockeries, and coastal landscapes. It is also used in ecological restoration projects within its native range. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance once established, preferring full sun exposure and well-draining soils. While it tolerates low water conditions, occasional watering during prolonged dry spells can keep the plant looking its best. Featherhead is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot. It is not known for being invasive outside its native range, but as with all non-native plantings, gardeners should monitor its growth and spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 4-5 feet
- Width: 4-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Brown, Cream
- Flowering Season: Fall, Winter
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the fynbos region of Southwestern South Africa, adapted to a Mediterranean climate
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Phylica pubescens, Phylica capitata, Phylica pubescens var. pubescens,
GBIF Accepted Name: Phylica pubescens Aiton