The shrubs can be lightly pruned to encourage bushy growth, making them suitable for hedging. The root system is well-developed with a taproot that can penetrate the soil to a depth of 6 metres and lateral roots that extend around the plant for about 2 metres and are closer to the surface. This extensive root system makes Eriocephalus africanus drought tolerant. The shallow roots can be damaged by digging or pulling up weeds close to the plant in summer, sometimes resulting in the unexpected death of large plants.

The superficial resemblance is in the foliage, which is softer and less glossy, but grows in a habit similar to that of common Mediterranean rosemary - the two species are not related. The small, needle-like leaves are an adaptation that limits water loss. The aromatic oils are thought to help in the same way. Shrubs growing on the coast have succulent leaves, while those growing away from the coast have thinner, less succulent leaves. Interestingly, this also seems to apply to the true Rosmarinus, which grows on extremely exposed cliffs at Cape St Vincent. It is also a well-known medicinal plant and an excellent shrub for the waterwise garden.