Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: crimson phlox

Family: Scrophulariaceae (Snapdragon)

Distribution: Limpopo

Habitat: Mixed bushveld, ferricrete south-facing outcrops in full sun

National red list: Vulnerable

Life form: Shrub / sub-shrub

Comments: This highly localised species was only discovered in 2002 on a farm near Thabazimbi, Limpopo. It is a very attractive shrublet with striking scarlet flowers that are present for most of the year, but especially during spring and summer. It has glandular leaves that have a lovely scent when crushed, similar to that of some Pelargonium species. This plant is listed as a Vulnerable species since there has until recently been only one known site and therefore any impact on the population or habitat could be significant. However, in 2020 a population was found at another site, which might suggest that this species is a little more secure than originally thought.