Podalyria calyptrata

A large rounded evergreen shrub that grows up to 5m tall and 3m wide, however, can be kept more compact with pruning.

Large strongly fragrant pink pea-like flowers bloom in spring. Foliage is simple green-grey and covered sparsely with silky white hairs giving the plant a silvery sheen.

Performs best in full sun and moist to well-drained acidic soil. Plants are wind and drought tolerant once established though.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants may require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years. Mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep deep mulching material away from the main stems They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants so check regularly.

Pruning can be carried out after flowering.

Attracts insects, bees and butterflies.

Generally free of pests and diseases.

African Garden

Podalyria is a genus of 25 species endemic to southern Africa. It is a fynbos plant and is common on sandstone slopes, ravines, moist hillsides, marshy places, beside mountain streams and forest margins. It is generally found below 1,000 m. It is abundant on the Kirstenbosch Estate on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain above the Botanic Garden and forms part of many plantings in the garden. All have simple alternate leaves and most have showy pink or white pea-like flowers.