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 montanus – Drakensberg Resin Bush

Euryops montanus is a true mountain daisy, naturally occurring on high, rocky slopes and exposed ridges. It forms compact to medium shrubs with firm, divided foliage designed to resist wind, cold and strong sun. When in flower, the plants are topped with clear yellow daisies that shine brightly against stone and sky, perfectly capturing the spirit of South African montane flora.

In cultivation, Euryops montanus prefers cooler, well-drained positions with plenty of light and good air movement. It performs admirably in rock gardens, elevated beds and sloping sites where water never stands for long. Flowering is concentrated in late winter and spring, often coinciding with the flush of other mountain wildflowers and making it an excellent companion for hardy bulbs and restios.

This species does not have widely recognised common names and is typically sold as Euryops montanus. From seed it produces robust, hardy shrubs that are well suited to both South African highveld gardens and cooler Mediterranean-type climates overseas. For those wanting to bring a touch of the Drakensberg or Cape mountains into their plantings, this species is an ideal choice.