Eriocephalus

African Rosemary

Eriocephalus africanus

Eriocephalus africanus IMG 5720

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Eriocephalus africanus IMG 5722s

Eriocephalus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. Commonly known as "wild rosemary" or "kapokbos," these plants are native to southern Africa, particularly in regions such as South Africa and Namibia. The genus is characterized by its aromatic foliage and small, daisy-like flowers.

Description

Eriocephalus species are typically small shrubs or subshrubs, often growing in arid or semi-arid environments. The leaves are usually covered with fine, white hairs, giving them a woolly appearance. The flowers are small, white or yellow, and are arranged in dense clusters. The fruit is a small achene, often with a pappus of fine hairs that aid in wind dispersal.

Habitat

Eriocephalus species are adapted to dry, rocky soils and are commonly found in fynbos and karoo biomes. They are well-suited to withstand drought conditions and are often used in xeriscaping.

Uses

The aromatic leaves of Eriocephalus are often used in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb. The essential oils extracted from the leaves are used in aromatherapy and have various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.

Species

Some notable species within the genus Eriocephalus include:

• Eriocephalus africanus
• Eriocephalus ericoides
• Eriocephalus racemosus

Cultivation

Eriocephalus species are relatively easy to cultivate, provided they are grown in well-drained soil and receive plenty of sunlight. They are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for water-wise gardens.

Related Pages

• Asteraceae
• Fynbos
• Karoo
• Xeriscaping
• South Africa
• Namibia