Easy-to-Grow helpers: Embrace home gardening with indigenous herbs

These South African indigenous herbs are easy to grow and have multiple uses in your home and garden.

Bulbine

Bulbine herbs are hardy and drought-resistant plants that traditional healers in the region have used for various ailments for many years. They are among the easiest plants to grow and are very forgiving, making them ideal for a water-wise garden due to their fleshy leaves. Additionally, bulbine is particularly effective in treating skin issues like sunburn and eczema.

Spekboom

Native to semi-arid regions, this fleshy succulent has gained popularity due to its ability to absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Spekboom is easy to grow; simply cut or break off a piece from an existing bush. Place it in well-drained soil in full sun, water it lightly, and within a couple of weeks, it will begin to grow and establish itself. The leaves of Spekboom are rich in vitamin C and packed with nutrients.

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African wormwood

This tall, striking plant with grey-green leaves grows easily from seedlings and is unfussy about its growing soil. These herb plants love full sunlight and, once established, are bushy and drought-resistant. African wormwood plants will need occasional cutting back every few months. They are used as natural insecticides, with a few insects unable to withstand the plant’s strong-smelling leaves.

Aloe vera

Every gardener should consider growing aloe vera plants. This versatile plant is known for its ability to heal scratches, bites, and stings. Aloe vera thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. Older plants, specifically those over two years old, have stronger healing properties. The gel found inside the leaves serves as an excellent moisturiser and soothes sunburns. You can use the leaves directly or simply extract the gel from within.