How to Grow and Care for True capereeds

Wheat capereed is characterized by its robust, grass-like appearance with erect, slender stems. It thrives in the sandy soils of its native habitats, forming dense, tussock-like clumps. The stems bear very small, inconspicuous brownish flowers that are wind-pollinated, showcasing the plant's adaptation to its dry, open environments. Its foliage ranges from bright to dark green, contributing to its striking texture in the landscape.

The hottentot capereed (Restio bifarius) features nodular orange-red to purple foliage. They are native to South Africa, where their color makes them a popular ornamental plant. They take their name from the Hottentot Holland Mountains in the country's Western Cape.

Cape pegreed is a striking perennial grass-like species native to the fynbos region of South Africa. Adapting to its fire-prone habitat, it features robust, reed-like stems that stand upright and densely tufted, with a green to golden-brown hue. The cylindrical stems bear minute, scale-like leaves, and inflorescences that are often prominent, displaying a unique aesthetic contrasting against the fynbos backdrop.

Whorl reed is a reed-like perennial with slender, cylindrical stems and reduced leaves that function more as sheaths. This plant thrives in moist, peaty soils, typical of its fynbos habitat. Its distinctive feathery inflorescences are easily swayed by wind, aiding in its adaptation to open, sunlit environments. Whorl reed’s growth pattern reflects its survival strategy in a competitive, fire-prone ecosystem.

Broom anglereed is a striking perennial noted for its dense, reed-like foliage that bursts into vibrant, golden-brown inflorescences. Its tall, slender stems and cascading flower clusters evoke a sense of wild elegance. Adaptive to its native fynbos habitat, broom anglereed thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates wind, making it resilient against harsh environmental elements.