code: 815
This rare buddleia relative from alpine South Africa
Family: Buddlejaceae
Common name: Besembossie, Otterbush, River Star
Plant Classification: Hardy shrub
Minimum Height: 90 cm
Maximum Height: 1.2 meters
Stiff stems with grey leaves carry bunches of starry white, fragrant flowers excellent for cutting. This rare buddleia relative from alpine South Africa (the ‘River Star’), is traditionally used to restore strength. We grow a lot here!
Sowing advice:
These seeds have already been thoroughly cleaned and cold-stored for several months. They should be sown into a well-drained, sandy compost at any time of the year, and covered thinly with sand or grit and kept moist. Keep at between 15 and 20 degrees C. Germination usually occurs within 4 to 6 weeks although some seeds may take much longer.
Distribution and habitat
The river star occurs along rivers and watercourses throughout South Africa, including Zimbabwe. It is one of those plants that will grow with their roots at the edge of a stream.
Uses
Gomphostigma virgatum is used traditionally to restore strength to a very tired person. Serviceable brooms are made from the longer twigs, which are cut before the flowers appear. It is also browsed down by stock.
