Metalasia umbelliformis is a flowering subshrub that is part of the Asteraceae family. The species is endemic to the Western Cape and occurs from Pearly Beach to Brandfontein. Four populations are known: Brandfontein, Rietfontein, Hagelkraal and Pearly Beach. The plant has a range of 150 km2 and is part of the fynbos. The species is threatened by coastal development and invasive plants.