Ischyrolepis subverticillata (Restio, Broom Restio, Dune Restio)

Botanical Information

FamilyRestionaceae
GenusIschyrolepis
Speciessubverticillata
SynonymsRestio ferruginosus, Ischyrolepis subverticillata, Restio microstachys, Restio subverticillatus
CategoryPerennials
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginNative to South Africa.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8 - 9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5 - H3
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-10 - 1
Height1.5 m
Spread1.5 m
Flowering PeriodMarch, April

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionIt has a very distinctive growth form with cane-like stems, which have soft green whorls of modified branches at each node.
ShapeArching and clump-forming.
LandscapeIt can be planted in the garden but will also do well in a pot on a patio or on a terrace.
PropagationBy division or seed.
CultivationGrow in full sun or dappled shade, in moist, well-drained soil. Avoid planting in alkaline soils and plant in a spot with plenty of air movement.
Notable SpecimensGlendurgan Garden, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth, Cornwall, United Kingdom.
HabitatThis species occurs naturally in the Betty’s Bay area from as close as 50 m from the sea to high up in the Kogelburg Nature Reserve where it can be found in full sun or light shade.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStems erect, 1.2 -1.5 m high, thick, terete, purple-spotted, and much branched.
Leaf DescriptionStrong upright culms with very decorative feathery foliage arranged in whorls.
Flower DescriptionMale and female flowers are produced on separate plants, the female flowers are white, the male flowers greenish-yellow.
Fruit DescriptionShiny brown nutlets.

Photographs