PHYLICA ERICOIDES

Family: Rhamnaceae
Common names: Heath Phylica, Ericoid Phylica (Eng.); Hardebos (Afr.)

TOUGH LITTLE SHRUB

Phylica ericoides is a lovely, hardy little shrub — compact, bushy and well adapted to our windy, dry coastal conditions.

The flowers are small and often clustered, with petals that give them an almost helmet-like appearance.

DISTRIBUTION & HABITAT

Phylica ericoides is widespread along the coast from Saldanha eastwards to the Eastern Cape and also occurs farther north in Africa.

Around Rooiels, you will find it in the Nature Reserve, on the Koppie, along road verges — and perhaps growing naturally in your garden. It occurs on coastal slopes, dunes and deep sandy soils.

FIRE & POLLINATION

Phylica ericoides regenerates after fynbos fires from seeds stored in the soil. This tough little shrub doesn't give up easily.

Its flowers are visited by various insects. It is always lovely to see butterflies gingerly landing on them, gently opening and closing their wings as they feed on the nectar.

Conservation status: Least Concern.

Click to find out more on Inaturalist