Microdon dubius, known as the "cat's tail" or katstert, is a South African endemic, night-scented, moth-pollinated shrublet in the Scrophulariaceae family. It grows up to 60 cm tall on rocky sandstone slopes, producing long, dense spikes of yellowish to maroon-petaled flowers from August to January.
Key Details for Microdon dubius:
Common Names: Cat's tail, katstert.
Habit: A densely leafy, woody-based shrublet reaching up to 60 cm in height with wand-like, hairy stems.
Leaves: Oblong-linear in shape.
Flowers: Long, narrow, spike-like inflorescences (similar to a cat's tail) featuring yellow flowers often with maroon to brown, short-tubed petals.
Bloom Period: Long flowering season from June to December, with a peak in spring.
Habitat & Distribution: Found in the Western Cape of South Africa, specifically on rocky, sandstone slopes.
Ecology: It is, a nocturnal-scented plant, which is strongly associated with moth pollination.
Taxonomy: Formerly known as Agathelpis dubia. The name Microdon refers to the small teeth on the calyx, and dubius indicates it was historically difficult to place.
Distinctive Features: The bracts are ovate, keeled, and often deflexed in fruit.

Microdon dubius is considered a relatively common yet easily overlooked shrublet during the day due to its subtle coloring and night-blooming characteristics.
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