Helichrysum mollifolium

Helichrysum mollifolium is a species of plant from South Africa.

Helichrysum mollifolium
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Helichrysum
Species:
H. mollifolium
Binomial name
Helichrysum mollifolium
Hilliard

Description

This plant has a terminal flowering stem with long white hairs. There are reduced leaves at the base. The small flowerheads are aggregated into a doubly compound inflorescence. The stems bearing the flowers are clearly visible. The flower bracts are golden brown.  It has a small root stock which produces narrow, rhizomes.[1]

Similar species

It can be distinguished from Helichrysum nudifolium by the soft leaves crowded at the base of the stem and the more golden-brown flower bracts.[1]

It differs from Helichrysum miconiifolium in its soft flowering stem, five nerved leaves and blunt bracts around the flowers. [1]

Distribution and habitat

This plant is known from the KwaZulu Natal province of South Africa. It grows in moist areas in the Drakensberg, between Witsieshoek and Garden Castle.[2] Its habitats include grassy depressions, near streams and the damp margins of forests.[1]

Conservation

As this species is widespread and currently well protected it is considered to be of least concern by the South African National Biodiversity Institute.[2]

References
  1. e-Flora of South Africa. v1.36. 2022. South African National Biodiversity Institute. http://ipt.sanbi.org.za/iptsanbi/resource?r=flora_descriptions&v=1.36
  2. Kamundi, D.A. & Victor, J.E. 2009. Helichrysum mollifolium Hilliard. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 20 February 2023
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