Bushman's Toilet Paper

Brachyglottis repanda

Physical Characteristics

Brachyglottis repanda is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

New Zealand.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; East Wall. By. South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum A gum is obtained from the plant and is used for chewing[173]. It should not be swallowed[173], however, and in light of the warning on toxicity at the top of the page, perhaps it should not even be chewed[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antihalitosis Miscellany A gum obtained from the plant is chewed to sweeten the breath[173].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant are poisonous[173].