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buchu
Scientific Name: Agathosma crenulata
Family: Rutaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Buchu (Agathosma spp.)
Buchu refers to several species within the genus Agathosma, a group of about 140 flowering plants native to southern Africa. The most commonly referenced species are Agathosma betulina and Agathosma crenulata.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Agathosma
- Family: Rutaceae (Citrus family)
- Scientific Names:
- Agathosma betulina (syn. Barosma betulina) - Short Buchu, Round-leaf Buchu
- Agathosma crenulata (syn. Barosma crenulata) - Ovate Buchu
- Barosma serratifolia - Long Buchu
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the southern part of Africa, specifically the Cape region of South Africa.
- Endemic to the mountains of the Western Cape Province, South Africa, ranging from Clanwilliam in the north to Worcester/Somerset West in the south.
- Grows in the wild in the Western Cape.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Buchu is described as a small, green, woody, evergreen shrub.
- The leaves are rounded and aromatic, leading to the name "round-leaf buchu" or "short buchu" for some species.
Traditional Uses
- Historically, buchu has been used in South Africa as a folk remedy (boereraat) for centuries.
- Indigenous cultures of South Africa have used Agathosma betulina for generations.
- Traditionally harvested in the wild but is now also cultivated sustainably.
- The dried leaves are harvested during the flowering season.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant produces aromatic leaves containing volatile oils.
Quirky Facts
- The genus name 'Agathosma' translates to 'aromatic,' reflecting the lovely fragrances that these plants generally possess.
- In South Africa, Buchu leaves were historically infused in brandy.