Edible
Portulacaria afra (iNtelezi, Porkbush, Spekboom) is used for sore throat and mouth infections while the astringent juice is used for soothing skin ailments such as pimples, rashes and insect bites. It is a popular ornamental plant.
The immature seeds of Strelitzia nicolai (isigude, Natal wild banana, Natalse wildepiesang) are edible and tasty and used as a food. It is a popular eco-gardening plant.
Tribulus terrestris (Gewone Dubbeltjie, Puncture Vine) is a widely used and popular remedy for eczema, enlarged prostate, reproductive disorders, infertility, and many other ailments.
Agave americana (Blougaringboom, century plant, umhlaba) is a healing anti-inflammatory, diuretic herb with hormonal and insecticidal constituents. It acts mainly on the digestive system and lowers fever by increasing perspiration.
Cyclopia genistoides (Gewone Heuningbos, Honeybush) is a popular health and herbal tea which is near threatened due to overharvesting in the wild.
A condensed Tulbaghia violacea monograph, including its known uses in traditional medicine and its botanical information.
Encephalartos natalensis (Natalbroodboom, Natal Cycad) is a ‘living fossil’ that is used as an antidote to evil spirits.
Carpobrotus edulis (suurvy, sour fig, ikhambi-lamabulawo) is a popular traditional medicine with a wide variety of applications. It is also edible and is ideal for low-maintenance and water-wise gardens.