How tall does a Chondropetalum elephantinum plant grow?
Dr. Linder has assigned the name Chondropetalum elephantinum to the population that is closer to Cape Town as it is typically a larger plant, growing to 2 meters tall. He retained the name Chondropetalum tectorum for the other population that only grows to 1 meter tall.
What kind of flowers does c.elephantinum have?
C. elephantinum – C. elephantinum is a dense, tufted, clump-forming, evergreen perennial with mid- to dark green, reed-like stems and spikelets of brown flowers in late spring or summer. Create your free SHOOT garden and make a record of the plants in your garden.
What kind of plant is Cape Rush elephantinum?
Chondropetalum elephantinum in a Santa Barbara Garden. For many years San Marcos Growers has grown a large beautiful grass-like plant from South Africa that we called Cape Rush or Chondropetalum tectorum.
Where did the Chondropetalum tectorum plant come from?
These plants from Monrovia Nursery were possibly the first introduction of a “Restio” (as plants in the Restionaceae are referred to) into the California horticultural trade. Chondropetalum tectorum has since become a very popular plant that is widely planted in gardens throughout California and many other Restios are also now available.
This true Chondropetalum tectorum is a smaller plant (about 3 feet tall) from the southern Cape. The larger plant Chondropetalum elephantinum which we still grow as well, is a more robust form up to 6 feet tall from the West Coast.
Is the Chondropetalum tectorum a drought tolerant plant?
Late in the season the stems arch gracefully from the weight of clusters of small brown flowers at the tips. Plant in full to part sun. It is drought tolerant, and appreciates supplemental water in spring. It is hardy to about 20-25 degrees F.
Why are the leaves on my Chondropetalum turning brown?
The dark brown sheaths at the joints drop off in summer leaving a dark band. Late in the season the stems arch gracefully from the weight of clusters of small brown flowers at the tips. Plant in full to part sun.
