Coleonema pulchellum, commonly known as confetti bush, buchu, diosma, or breath of heaven, is an evergreen shrub endemic to the fynbos and coastal scrub regions of South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 0.8 to 1.6 meters (2 ft 7 in to 5 ft 3 in) and is characterized by its woody, dense, and erect posture. The foliage is fine and needle-like, emitting a pleasant scent when brushed against or crushed, contributing to its common name ’breath of heaven’. The flowers are star-shaped, 7 to 8 mm in diameter, and appear in shades of pink or sometimes white. Each flower has 5 oval petals, 5.0-5.7 mm long, with a distinctive central vein. The shrub becomes profusely covered in flowers from May to October, which are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The fruit consists of a 5-chambered capsule, each containing a shiny black seed.

The confetti bush is valued for its year-round ornamental foliage and the profusion of flowers that create a spectacular display in the garden. It is often used in borders, rockeries, and as a fragrant addition to sensory gardens. Coleonema pulchellum thrives in full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils. It is relatively low maintenance and can be pruned to maintain shape. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0