The genus Athanasia is endemic to southern Africa. There are 39 species, the majority of which are found in the fynbos, but a few can be found in the Karoo with one extending into Namibia, and one species in the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg. This genus is a member of the large daisy family, Asteraceae, which is very well represented in the Cape Floral Kingdom, with more than a thousand species. The leaves and stems of most athanasias are rich in bitter resins, which have been widely used medicinally by traditional healers and herbalists for various ailments. Athanasias are not readily grazed by livestock or game because they have a bitter taste. Sheep and goats may show symptoms of photo-sensitivity (‘dikkopsiekte’) when they eat the plant during droughts.

Athanasia pinnata is an eye-catching species. Its texture, form and foliage make it an excellent garden plant which can be used in a succulent garden or planted in between shrubs. It can reach up 2 meters in diameter and is drought resistant and cold hardy. Athanasia pinnata is easy to grow. It endures drought and harsh conditions, rewarding you with bright yellow flower heads. It prefers a sunny situation and tolerates most soils, even poor, gravelly and sandy soils making it an ideal subject for the rockery garden. Removing the spent flower heads, and regularly pinching out the branch tips will keep the plant tidy and encourage branching, thus increasing the number of flowers.