Flora Detail
| Common Name | Wireflask Heath |
| Family | Ericaceae (Heath Family) |
| Date Observed | 14-04-2023 |
| Category | Shrubs |
|---|---|
| Catalogue No. | 3537RG |
| Flowering Time | Autumn |
| Colour | Pink to Mauve |
| Locations Observed | |
| Estuary | |
| Koppie | |
| Nature Reserve | |
| Small Holding | Few |
| Village | |
| Greater Rooiels | Few |
Erica gysbertii
Information
Wireflask Heath
Erica gysbertii is a rare species of erica, endemic to the Western Cape of South Africa, specifically within the Kogelberg area.
Key Details:
Habitat and Location: It is found on the sandstone slopes of the Hangklip and, more recently, discovered on the high peaks of Klippiesberg. Its primary range is in the southern Kogelberg, between Rooi Els and Kleinmond.
Appearance: This species is characterized by beautiful tubular, pink, and sticky flowers.
Conservation Status: Observations from 2025 indicate that while it was once thought to be only in the Kogelberg, a small population was found on Klippiesberg, representing a significant range extension of about 50km, but the species is considered rare and sometimes found in very limited numbers (e.g., only 5 plants in some surveyed areas).
Varieties: Erica gysbertii var. longiflora is recognized as a variety within the species.
Taxonomy: It belongs to the Ericaceae family and the genus Erica.
Threats: The species is threatened by invasive alien plants (such as pines) and potentially by fires that are too frequent.
Erica gysbertii is sometimes monitored by the Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers (CREW) and CapeNature.