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    Large Cape Rush

    Chondropetalum elephantinum (Elegia e.)

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    Large Cape Rush (7927859544319)
    Large Cape Rush 5 Gallon Container Size
    Large Cape Rush Close-Up Orange Flower
    Large Cape Rush Planted Landscape Mature Size

    Orders over $399 are delivered for free! All others have a flat rate delivery fee of $40.

    Large Cape Rush

    Large Cape Rush

    Chondropetalum elephantinum (Elegia e.)

    Regular price $49.95
    Regular price Sale price $49.95
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    Out of Stock

    Currently, we only deliver within California. If your order will be delivered to that state, please change your Growing Zone above or in the menu.

    Plant Type
    Grass, Perennial
    Seasonality
    Evergreen
    Mature height
    6-8 ft.
    Mature Width
    4-6 ft.
    Sun exposure
    Sun/Part Sun
    Watering
    Low
    Grows Well in Zones
    9, 10, 11
    Flowering Season
    Summer, Fall
    Attracts Wildlife
    BIrds, Bees, Butterflies
    Characteristics
    Drought Tolerant, Deer Resistant, Flowering
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    Description

    Large Cape Rush (Chondropetalum elephantinum) is a unique and striking plant that is sure to add beauty and interest to any garden.

    Large Cape Rush is an impressive accent plant with upright, arching, reed-like, evergreen clumping stems. This beautiful large, grass-like plant has dark brown flowers in narrow spikes that contrast nicely with the dark green stems. Planted for its graceful texture and form, Chondropetalum elephantinum (also known as Elegia elephantina) creates drama in the landscape with movement and sound as it sways in the wind.

    Native to South Africa, Large Cape Rush is a restio that looks good in any style of garden or large container and grows well in seaside gardens, near the shallows of a water garden, or in a waterwise garden. Drought tolerant once established but Large Cape Rush will look better with supplemental water as needed. Large Cape Rush is also tolerant of ocean spray, heat, and windy conditions.

    Large Cape Rush may be dramatic but this evergreen perennial is low-maintenance, low water, and versatile! An excellent choice for beginners or busy gardeners.


    There is confusion among many as this plant was originally known as Chondropetalum tectorum before undergoing a change in identity and nomenclature as the one species was reclassified into two species and also a new genus (Elegia). Chondropetalum elephantinum or Elegia elephantinum is the larger, more robust plant, growing to 6 feet tall or more. The true Chondropetalum tectorum (Elegia tectorum) is smaller with thinner stems. Adding to the confusion, this Large Cape Rush is dioecious, meaning male and female are borne on different plants resulting in subtle differences in flower spikes.

    Plant care

    To properly care for your Large Cape Rush, it is important to provide it with full sun near coastal climates or light afternoon shade in hotter, arid climates. Adaptable to a variety of soil types including boggy or clay soils. Water regularly for a few weeks after planting to help establish a good root system. Tolerates drought once established but may look better with supplemental water.

    Prune selectively to remove old, brown stems individually. Do not shear or cut back indiscriminately as this may damage new stems.  Clumps can be divided in 3 year intervals in early spring.

    There is much confusion among Californians because this plant was originally introduced into the trade as Chondropetalum tectorum before undergoing a change in identity and nomenclature as that species was broken into two species, and then reclassified as the genus Elegia. Chondropetalum elephantinum (Elegia elephantina) is the larger, more robust plant, growing to 6 feet tall or more. The true Chondropetalum tectorum (Elegia tectorum) is smaller with thinner stems. Adding to the confusion, all Large Cape Rush plants are not identical because the male flowers (stamens) and female flowers (pistils) are borne on different plants resulting in differences in the flower spikes.

    Plants Express is excited to offer the Large Cape Rush to our customers. With its unique characteristics, hardiness, and low-maintenance requirements, it is sure to make a beautiful addition to any garden. The Large Cape Rush is perfect for large garden beds or as a focal point in the garden, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any outdoor space.
     

    FAQ'S

    Q: What is a restio?
    A: Restios are a group of grass-like or bamboo-like plants from the Restionaceae family that are mostly evergreen, clump forming and grow actively in cool-season weather like spring or fall.

    Q: How cold hardy is the Large Cape Rush, "Chondropetalum elephantinum"?
    A: Large Cape Rush is winter hardy to 20℉.

    Q: Is Chondropetalum elephantinum the same as C. tectorum?
    A: There is much confusion among Californians because this plant was originally introduced into the trade as Chondropetalum tectorum before undergoing a change in identity and nomenclature as that species was broken into two species, and then reclassified as the genus Elegia. Chondropetalum elephantinum (Elegia elephantina) is the larger, more robust plant, growing to 6 feet tall or more. The true Chondropetalum tectorum (Elegia tectorum) is smaller with thinner stems. Adding to the confusion, all Large Cape Rush plants are not identical because the male flowers (stamens) and female flowers (pistils) are borne on different plants resulting in differences in the flower spikes.

    California grown
    • At Plants Express, we specialize in delivering the highest quality plants grown specifically for California's unique climate and conditions.
    • Our plants are hand-selected by our team of experts to ensure that only the best plants are procured for our customers.
    • We monitor each plant from the moment it's selected until the moment it arrives at your location to ensure that it arrives in the best possible condition.
    Why Plants Express?

    For over 20 years, we’ve provided the finest plants and trees for California’s beautiful homes and landscapes. With more than 10 million trees and shrubs delivered and in the ground, we are California’s premier online nursery. We inspect every item for adherence to our stringent quality standards. From there, your plants are carefully loaded into our specially outfitted sprinter vans. If you need more mature trees and shrubs, we have a fleet of trucks for large deliveries. No more chasing after plants and carting them home. No more dried out or damaged plants arriving in boxes. With Plants Express, you can get everything you need in just a few clicks, from the comfort of your home.

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