Agathosma betulina – Plant

R110.00

Indigenous to South Africa, organically grown, and locally sourced from ethical growers committed to sustainable, Nature-friendly cultivation.

Common names: round-leaf buchu, round-leaved buchu, mountain buchu, buchu (English); buchu (Khoi); ibuchu (Xhosa); ibuchu (Zulu); boegoe, buchu, bergboegoe, rondblaarboegoe (Afrikaans).

Botanical name: Agathosma betulina

Previously known as: Barosma betulina

Potted into 100% recycled plastic nursery pot or bag.

Out of stock

Description

Care Summary

Can be tricky to grow, likes partial shade – full sun. Plant in acidic (pH 5-6.5), well-drained and composted soil. Synergistic relationship with a common soil yeast, which allows it to grow in the low nutrient soil it is found. It has been suggested that this relationship plays a strong role in the medicinal constituent concentrations in the harvested plants. More research is needed.11 Soil – well-drained, well composted, sandy soil; acidic (pH 3.5 to 5.5); avoid disturbing soil around roots, mulch to keep roots cool, reduce evaporation. Light – full sun Water – Water well after planting. Water well in winter, moderately in summer. Do not allow it to dry out completely. Once established they will survive periods of drought. Pruning – to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Propagation Seeds – treated with Smoke Plus seed primer for better germination Cuttings – tricky to propagate from cuttings Plant out in groups of three to nine, 20-30 cm apart Best planted out during autumn, winter or spring (rainy season) Pests Phytopthera cinnamonnii – soil-borne fungus that attacks roots and causes plants to wither and die, especially when soil temperature is high. Citrus caterpillars will eat leaves – control by hand-picking. Harvest Don’t harvest in the first year, since pulegone content is high during that time to protect it from predators. Best time to harvest is February – March – lowest pulegone content at that time of year. Don’t harvest while flowering. Buchu leaves said to be of the highest quality medicinally while the plants are flowering or fruiting. (citation?)

Plant Summary

Agathosma betulina, also known as round-leaf buchu, is an aromatic shrub native to South Africa. Traditionally used medicinally by indigenous peoples, buchu has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Buchu leaves are rich in essential oils and make a fabulously refreshing tea with a minty-fruity, slightly bitter flavour. The leaves can be made into teas, tinctures, oils, and other preparations to treat digestive and urinary complaints. Buchu is also used as a natural flavoring agent. This hardy plant likes well-drained acidic soil and can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Pruning encourages new growth. Harvest leaves when flowering for optimal medicinal benefits.

Disclaimer

Our range of indigenous, organically-grown plants are intended as part of an integrated approach to wellbeing. Information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition, nor replace prescribed medication. If on medication, pregnant, lactating, or undergoing surgery please consult your healthcare professional before using plants as food or medicine.

Additional information

container size

12cm

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