Rafnia acuminata

This creeping heartleaf or widowpea shrublet, as Rafnia acuminata is commonly known, was photographed above Clarence Drive on the western slopes of the Kogelberg. It also grows around Kleinmond and in Fernkloof at Hermanus, probably confined to this small distribution area. The habitat is lower rocky fynbos slopes and sandy flats, sometimes in disturbed areas.

The plant belongs to the Fabaceae or pea family. Plants in this genus resprout after fire. It flowers in spring and summer (Bean and Johns, 2005; www.ispot.org.za).