Euryops is the quintessential “fynbos daisy” – a genus of sun-loving shrubs and subshrubs that light up rocky hillsides and grasslands across southern Africa with masses of golden flowers. Belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae), Euryops species are generally evergreen, drought-tolerant and long-lived, forming neat hummocks or woody mounds covered in fine, often aromatic foliage. When in bloom they can be almost completely smothered in bright yellow daisies, creating a haze of colour that draws in bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

In nature, many species grow in tough, exposed places – sandstone ridges, shale bands, gravel plains, mountain slopes and coastal scrub – where poor soils, wind and seasonal drought are the norm. These harsh origins make them exceptionally well suited to water-wise, low-maintenance gardens around South Africa and in dry-summer or Mediterranean-type climates worldwide. With their intricate foliage and generous flowering, they bridge the gap between ornamental shrubs and hardy steppe or rock-garden plants.

For gardeners and collectors, the genus offers remarkable diversity: from tiny, moss-like cushions to upright, architecturally branched shrubs; from fine, erica-like leaves to bold ferny foliage; from tight button heads to broad-rayed daisies. Grown from seed, Euryops is fast to establish, rewarding the patient grower with plants that are both resilient and spectacular, whether they’re anchoring a fynbos bed in the Cape, brightening a dry border in Gauteng, or bringing a taste of the South African veld to gardens overseas.

Euryops empetrifolius (Euryops sulcatus densifolius, Jacobaeastrum empetrifolium) – Buck Harpuis; Bokharpuis, Bitterharpuis, Bitter Harpuis

Euryops empetrifolius hints at its character through its name: the foliage recalls the tiny, ericoid leaves of Empetrum and other heath-like shrubs. Plants form tight, compact mounds with very small, needle-like leaves packed closely along the stems, creating a dense, fine-textured cushion. Against this miniature foliage, the bright yellow daisies appear almost oversized, producing a striking, high-contrast effect.

This species is perfectly suited to rock gardens, troughs, gravel beds and exposed slopes where scale is small and detail is appreciated up close. Its natural habitat in South Africa includes well-drained, often rocky ground, so it demands excellent drainage and plenty of sun in cultivation. Flowering in gardens is usually strongest in late winter and spring, making it a welcome contributor to the early-season display.

Euryops empetrifolius is usually known only by its scientific name, with Buck Harpuis used as a common name. From seed it is straightforward, though seedlings are small at first and benefit from bright light and careful watering to avoid damping off. Internationally, this species is a superb choice for alpine and steppe enthusiasts looking to incorporate authentic South African elements into their plantings.