Cape Town is known for many things alongside being ‘Africa’s Leading City Destination’. One of them, is undoubtedly for being a Nature-lover’s paradise.
From Table Mountain to the Cape Winelands and everything in between, there’s majestic mountains, natural scenery and picturesque landscapes across the peninsula that’ll fill up your gallery before you even realise.
Also read: Table Mountain snatches ‘Africa’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ award!
One such Insta-worthy hotspot is the Mother City’s iconic Chapman’s peak. Whether you’re cruising along Chapman’s peak Drive or conquering its hiking trails, you’re bound to find a plethora of natural gems.
And if you know what to look for, you’ll be lucky to spot a couple of Cape Everlastings or Sewejaartjie shrublets along the way:
Belonging to the Syncarpha botanical family, these beautiful plants form part of some 28 species, which are endemic to the fynbos of the Eastern and Western Cape of South Africa.
It’s colloquially known as “Sewejaartjies” in Afrikaans due to its fire ephemeral nature. They flower regularly after fires and produce copious amounts of seeds but rarely live longer than seven years after germination.
It’s english name, Cape Everlastings, stem from their mesmerising floral displays. It maintains its shape and colour long after being cut and dried which makes it an ideal feature for many in the flower industry.
It may be relatively short-lived, but when the season arises it’s definitely a sight to behold.
Also read:
Look! A new fynbos lily discovered on the Agulhas Plain, Overberg
Picture: Lisa Drogemoller