Renosterveld takes its name from the most abundant and conspicuous species in this veld type, namely renosterbos (Elytropappus Rhinocerotis), a greyish, small-leaved shrub which usually grows to a height of one meter.

Despite it's monotonous grey appearance a wide variety of geophytes occur which tend to flower in spring.

The veld type appears to be transitory between Fynbos and the vegetation of the Karoo. It is not a major component of the Baviaanskloof’s flora and occurs mainly in the extreme western areas.

Within its former distribution range more than 70% of this veld type has been replaced by agriculture.