African Rosemary

African Rosemary

African Rosemary (Eriocephalus africanus) is a woody perennial shrub in the Asteraceae family. It prefers a sunny, dry, well-drained site and is reasonably frost-hardy in most New Zealand regions. Growing to around 80 cm–1 m tall and wide, it has fine silvery foliage and small white flowers followed by fluffy seedheads. Used as a culinary herb in moderation for flavouring meats and teas, a traditional medicinal plant for respiratory and antiseptic uses, and a fragrant, drought-tolerant ornamental that attracts pollinators and adds texture to cottage and herb gardens.

Description

African Rosemary (Eriocephalus africanus) is a small, evergreen shrub native to the Cape region of South Africa, prized for its silvery-grey foliage, fine rosemary-like texture, and delicate white flowers that appear in spring and summer, followed by fluffy seedheads reminiscent of snow. Despite its common name, it is not a true rosemary but belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae). The leaves are aromatic, carrying a clean, camphorous-herbal scent that’s somewhat like a cross between rosemary and lavender. Traditionally, African Rosemary has been used in South African herbal medicine as an antiseptic and for treating colds, fevers, and digestive ailments. The leaves are also used to scent rooms, repel insects, and flavour roasted meats or herbal teas in moderation. It thrives in hot, dry, sunny positions with excellent drainage and is very drought-tolerant once established. In New Zealand, it does best in full sun and free-draining soil, tolerating mild frost.