Gomphostigma virgatum

Gomphostigma virgatum

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Common Names

Otterbossie, Besembossie (afrikaans)
River Stars (english)

Taxonomy

Family SCROPHULARIACEAE
Genus Gomphostigma
Species virgatum
SA Plant Number
Basionym Gomphostigma virgatum

Description

Gomphostigma virgatum is an extremely hardy, evergreen, water-loving, graceful perennial or shrub with small, elongated, attractive grey leaves.

It blooms profusely almost all year round with spikes of white flowers. These attract small pollinating insects to the garden.

This shrub grows well in running, not stagnant water and in a normally-irrigated garden. I have seen this pretty, delicate-looking plant anchored between rocks in a fast-flowing stream in the Free State – shows how tough it is.

Plant close together in groups for the best effect. Plant in full sun or semi-shade and prune to keep it neat.

Size: 1m

Wildlife

Wildlife garden plant:

The flowers attract many small pollinating insects to the garden.

Uses

Distribution

Limpopo, North West, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Free State, Northen Cape, Eastern Cape, Western Cape

Natural Habitat:

Along rivers and streams

 

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