Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Aspalathus

Species:

Aspalathus linearis

USDA Symbol:

ASLI14

Growth Characteristics

Height:

200 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jan,feb,oct,nov,dec

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, birds

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Fynbos ecosystem is fire-prone; Aspalathus linearis regenerates from seed after fire, with fire stimulating seed release from serotinous pods.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to fynbos region; adapted to nutrient-poor conditions

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (e.g., hot water treatment or mechanical nicking) to break physical dormancy; germination occurs within 2-4 weeks after treatment.