Scrambling, resinous, tar-scented shrublet, woody at the base. Leaves dark-green, pinnately 3-foliolate, leaflets oval, hairy; flowers in sparse racemes, bright yellow, pea-shaped. Seed pods are cylindrical and contain 4-6 seeds.

Latin bitumem = bitumen, asphalt, tar: referring to the plants tar-like scent.

After: Harry Bolus (1834-1911), botanist, founder of Cape Town Bolus Herbarium.