Xerophyta is a genus of around 50 species, of which nine occur in South Africa. The genus name is derived from the Greek xeros, meaning dry, and phytos, meaning plant, referring to the ability of the genus to withstand desiccation.

Xerophyta viscosa is a fascinating plant with blackened stems in the winter months but totally transformed in the early summer when covered with masses of pink flowers, especially after fire. A hillside covered with numbers of these plants in flower is a memorable sight, although short-lived, as the blooms only last for a few weeks. The species is well adapted to survive extreme conditions such as drought, fires, and very cold temperatures. Extensive traditional uses include medicinal, magical and household. Xerophyta viscosa is a deciduous perennial up to 1.8 m high with thick, branched stems densely covered with closely packed, fibrous, persistent leaf bases, black from persistent fire charring. Densely packed roots grow down through the entire length of the main stem until they reach the ground, where they spread out and assume the normal role of anchorage. Long, strap-shaped, keeled leaves occur in tufts at the tips of stems. White to mauve scented flowers are borne in groups on slender stems in spring and early summer (September to November), especially after fire. The roots are smoked to relieve asthma, and smoke from the whole plant is used to stop nosebleeds. Stem bark preparations are reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The active ingredient, called amentoflavone, is also found in gingko extract. It is also used as a charm against lightning.