Aulax umbellata (Thunb.) R.Br.

Common Name and Native Range

Aulax umbellata, commonly called the broad-leaf featherbush, is a shrub that is native to the Western Cape.

It grows on lower slopes and coastal lowlands from Kogelberg to Mossel Bay, at altitudes up to 500 meters.

Growth Habit and Size

This shrub grows from a single stem and reaches a maximum height of 2.5 meters.

The specific epithet umbellata means "like an umbrella".

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves have rounded tips, growing up to 110 mm long and 15 mm wide.

Reproductive System

Aulax umbellata is a dioecious species, meaning individual plants are either male or female, producing only one type of flower.

Bloom Period

The plant blooms from September through February.

Pollinators

A variety of insect species act as pollinators for this species.

Seed Development

After pollination, female flowers dry out and form a woody shell that holds and protects the developing seeds.

Fire Response

Fires will kill the entire mature plant, and only the stored seeds survive to germinate new growth.

Afrikaans Common Name

In Afrikaans, this species is called veerkanariebos.