Phylica ericoides
RHAMNACEAE

• Found in remnant natural areas in Cape Town from the coast to Constantia in strandveld, sand fynbos and granite fynbos, this compact, branched shrublet has rich dark green foliage that reaches 80cm in height. It is aptly named for its revolute, needle-like, ‘ericoid’ leaves. Small but showy button-shaped, white flowerheads are produced en masse in late summer/early autumn when little else is flowering, delighting many a hungry bee, butterfly or beetle out of season.
• Flowering time: February-June
  In your garden: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil and water well to establish. A great water-wise plant suitable for dry, sandy, windy conditions.
  Distribution: Saldanha to Cape Town and up the east coast to southern tropical Africa
  Image: © James Puttick