Rhodocoma capensis

Also Known As

Cape Restio

Plant type

grass / grass like

size

H: 2'-6'
W: 5'

planting zones

8b-10b

More Options

Rhodocoma capensis plant details

Rhodocoma capensis is an evergreen grass (or grassy in appearance) with green foliage. In fall and summer tan flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and even moisture water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Rhodocoma capensis

Plant type: grass (or grassy in appearance)
Plant family: restionaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 5 FT wide, 2 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: tan blooms in fall and summer
Uses: container plant, tropical-looking, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Rhodocoma capensis

USDA Zones: 8b - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: even moisture
Resistant to: heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Native to South Africa, this 6' tall semi-evergreen Restio makes a stunning focal point in a large pot, a dramatic mass planting, or a perfect contrast plant. Clusters of fine deep pinkish-brown (female) or yellow-green (male) flowers make terminal tassels. Whorls of bright green, fine, feathery foliage burst from each node on its bamboo-like stems, and at each node is a distinctive sheath, reddish-brown on the outside, and blonde on the inside. Once established, occasional watering is sufficient; and it is happy to be mulched for winter. Sorry, grasses and sedges cannot be shipped to California.

By: Dancing Oaks Nursery

Forms reed-like stems covered with fine foliage and grows 6-8' tall. Described as being extremely elegant in its native habitat. Hardy to 20 °F.

By: Native Sons

Looks for all the world like another of our favorite Restio relatives, Elegia capensis. But unlike Elegia, which most often frosts to the ground at temperatures approaching 20 ºF and is slow to recover, this creature has never had a shred of damage for us, including one year with several nights in the teens and 2 days remaining below freezing. 4 to 5', eventually larger, plumes of asparagus-like foliage with cleverly coordinated rust-brown bracts and seed heads in winter. These are excellent garden plants in well-drained soil with bright light and are also most architectural container plants. Make the pets sleep with it should temperatures fall below 20 ºF, USDA zone 9, for an extended period, or bring it, and them, inside.