Heliophila subulata

This is a minutely hairy, annual or perennial shrublet with leathery, linear to lanceolate leaves. The stems are green or purple with narrow leaves that taper from a narrow base to a very fine point. The delicate flowers are purple or blue.

Heliophila meaning ’sun’ and phílos, meaning “dear” or “beloved”, refers to the blooms opening in sun and closing at night or in overcast conditions.

The majority of the species grow in the winter-rainfall Cape Floristic Region and this flowering plant can be seen along the paved path near the boat club entrance to Steenbok.