Common names: snake flower, cat's tail, burn jelly plant. It is a fast growing, branched, succulent perennial with fleshy, linear green leaves in opposite rows and clasping the stems at the base. It forms spreading clumps with greyish stems often bearing adventitious roots. The small 6-petaled star shaped flowers are carried on an upright, spreading raceme during spring (or occasionally at other times). The petals are either yellow or sometimes orange, which combines attractively with the fluffy yellow stamens to give a bi-coloured look. The fruit is a small, rounded capsule and contains black seeds which are dispersed by wind.
Therapeutic Uses: Bulbine frutescens is one of nature’s finest medicinal plants. It’s a remarkable first aid medicine chest all in one. Externally the freshly squeezed juice, frequently applied, is amazingly effective to take care of a wide range of skin conditions and wounds. The list is almost endless: acne, burns, blisters, cold sores and more.
Applications
An infusion of fresh leaves can also be made to help relieve coughs, colds and arthritis though care should be taken when using internally. Leaves and flowers are said to be edible.