About
An endangered, slow-growing, evergreen conifer from the Cederberg Mountains of the Western Cape, South Africa, forming a narrow, conical tree to about 20m with whippy, scale-like, grey-green foliage and small, rounded cones. A critically rare species, important in specialist collections, requiring full sun and excellent drainage.
About the genus
Xerophyllum includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toWestern N America
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect the crowns with a dry winter mulch
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, or by dividing the crowns in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free