Agathosma ovata Kluitjieskraal

These leaves of the Kluitjieskraal cultivar of Agathosma ovata, originating from the region of the Kluitjieskraal River near Wolseley, Tulbagh and Ceres, were seen in Kirstenbosch during March.

Selecting particular growth forms of a plant considered superior in some way for multiplying in horticulture has refined and thereby enhanced the popularity of many plants, contributing to their use and survival.

A. ovata Kluitjieskraal was selected for its dense clusters of pink flowers that cover almost the entire bush.

The opposite, decussate leaf pairs, growing on short stalks, are spaced up the reddish stems in the photo. They are broadly ovate tapering to acute tips. The oil-bearing glands are visible as pale dots along the leaf margins (www.plantzafrica.com).