Gomphostigma virgatum

Otterbush, River Star
Gomphostigma virgatum
Type: Evergreen Shrub
Exposure: Full Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular to Moist

This South African native is most at home in moist soils, near a pond or watercourse. Forming a slightly disorganized-looking mass of silvery stems and foliage, it will reach 6ft (1.8m) in height by 4ft (1.2m) wide. The stems themselves are slightly arched, and are clothed in very narrow, almost powdery-looking leaves that resemble rosemary leaves, only larger. Three quarter inch (19mm), white, slightly fragrant, star-shaped flowers appear in loose clusters at the branch tips in mid-to late summer.
Its unique silvery-grey color means that it’s an effective accent plant, combining well with the likes of ornamental grasses, roses and sun-loving ferns. it can be cut back hard in the winter to rejuvenenate the foliage, if desired.

Disclaimer: I couldn’t smell any fragrance from the flowers at all, but that could just be me.

Cheers,

John