About Lanaria lanata (L.) T.Durand & Schinz
The genus Lanaria is a monotypic genus of flowering plants that contains only one species: Lanaria lanata. This species is endemic to the southern coast of South Africa, where it is associated with the fynbos belt. Common names for Lanaria lanata include Cape edelweiss and lambtails. The genus Lanaria belongs to Lanariaceae, a monotypic plant family that taxonomists have only recognized recently. The 2016 APG IV system recognizes this family, with no changes to this placement from the 1998, 2003, and 2009 APG versions. Across its distribution range, Lanaria lanata grows on both clay and sandstone soils. Its evergreen stiff, ribbed leaves grow from a woody rootstock; the leaves are channelled, and have finely serrated margins. This species is distinguished by its densely woolly white heads that enclose mauve flowers. Flowering occurs abundantly after fires.
