Rhodocoma capensis

We have trialed a number of restios, but relatively mild winters of 12-15 degrees F took them all out, leaving only this gem, which lasted until we hit upper single digits F. Rhodocoma capensis makes a 2′ tall clump resembling a dwarf bamboo after sizzling in the electric chair. In warmer climates, it should reach 5-6′ tall in 7 years, but not here, not yet. Rhodocoma capensis can be found in drainage ditches and moist roadside rocky soil pockets in South Africa’s Little Karroo…an otherwise obscenely dry desert. Full-baking sun is the preferred planting condition…a superbly elegant container specimen in colder climates.