Eriosema distinctum
Common Name: Scarlet Eriosema
Scientific Name: Eriosema distinctum
Status: Least Concern
Quick ID: Bright orange-red flowers held above trailing stems with rough, three-part leaves
Where to Find It: Grasslands, including overgrazed areas
When to See It: Spring/Summer
Eriosema distinctum
Common Name: Scarlet Eriosema
Scientific Name: Eriosema distinctum
Status: Least Concern
Quick ID: Bright orange-red flowers held above trailing stems with rough, three-part leaves
Where to Find It: Grasslands, including overgrazed areas
When to See It: Spring/Summer
Eriosema distinctum is a hardy grassland plant that adds bright colour to the landscape during summer. It is commonly seen even in overgrazed areas, as livestock tend to avoid it.
Eriosema distinctum is a resilient indigenous grassland plant recognised for its bright orange-red flowers and ability to survive in heavily grazed landscapes. Much of the plant exists underground, with extensive woody root systems that may reach several metres deep, allowing it to recover after fire, drought and grazing pressure. Common across the Midlands and Drakensberg grasslands, this species highlights the remarkable hidden biodiversity beneath South Africa’s grassland ecosystems.
How to identify it
Look for trailing stems spreading over rocks, with rough, hairy leaves divided into three parts. The orange-red flowers stand out clearly above the foliage.
Habitat & where to look
Found widely in Midlands grasslands, including Beacon Hill, Bill Barnes Nature Reserve, and surrounding areas.
Seasonality
Most visible during summer flowering.
Good to know
Used in traditional medicine, but not recommended for casual use.
Conservation status
Listed as Least Concern on South Africa’s Red List.
Notes
A good example of grassland resilience — much of the plant lives underground and re-sprouts each year.
Seen this plant in the wild?
Help us document local biodiversity.
If you spot this species in The Dargle, tag the Conservancy (@dargle.kzn) and share your sighting online.
