Berzelia is a genus of approximately 12 species of upright, wiry-stemmed, evergreen shrubs in the family Bruniaceae (order Bruniales), endemic to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. The plants are characterised by a dense covering of small, fine, needle-like leaves along slender stems. Their flowers, which appear in spring and summer, are minute but are tightly packed into spherical clusters; each flowering head carries several such clusters. The individual flowers are white to cream, and because the stamens project beyond the tiny petals, the flower heads have a distinctive studded or bristly appearance. The genus was first formally published in Annales des Sciences Naturelles (Paris), volume 8, in 1826. GBIF recognises 13 accepted taxa within the genus. Berzelia lanuginosa is the most widely cultivated representative and is the source of the common name "berzelia" used in the cut-flower trade, where the spherical flower heads are prized for floral arrangements.
Distribution
Berzelia is endemic to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. The genus is part of the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world's most biodiverse plant hotspots, where members of the family Bruniaceae are concentrated.
Cultivation
Berzelia species are best grown in light, well-drained soil with adequate moisture and a position in full sun. Light trimming after flowering helps retain a compact growth form. Most species adapt well to cultivation as ornamental shrubs or cut-flower crops.
Propagation
Most Berzelia species are easily propagated from seed or from small, half-hardened tip cuttings taken after flowering.
