Large Cape Rush

Chondropetalum elephantinum (Elegia e.) is a striking accent plant with upright, arching, reed-like, evergreen clumping stems. This large beautiful, 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, Large Cape Rush creates drama in the landscape with movement and sound as it sways in the wind. This restio looks good in any garden style 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 looks better with supplemental water as needed. Filtered light or afternoon shade may be best in hot inland climates.

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.