Helichrysum petiolare

Fast spreading, aromatic ground cover type shrub which loves the Reserve’s conditions where it can be seen in the long grass up to a diameter of 3m. The foliage is covered in silver-grey hairs. Many tiny yellow flowers form small flowerheads, surrounded by creamy-white, papery floral bracts, which are arranged in inflorescences on long stalks.

The Bushmen called it Kooigoed and used it to stuff their mattresses.

The name Helichrysum is derived from the Greek helios meaning sun, and chrysos meaning gold, referring to the bright yellow colour of the flower heads. Petiolare refers to long leaf stalks.