Erica vestita leaves

These Erica vestita stem-tips are not on equal terms in growth phase. One is starting to flower, another has done so, there is one ending in yellow-green leaves of flowerless elongation, while another can’t hide its discoloured discomfort.  Overall, the plant seems to be in good nick near Caledon in February.

Leaf youthfulness varies. Some leaves near stem-tips already appear hardened and aged, juxtaposed with soft, young ones… more proof that youth doesn’t last (Manning and Helme, 2024; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Manning, 2009; iNaturalist).