Knowltonia vesicatoria Seeds - Indigenous Perennial Fynbos - Medicinal Herb

Knowltonia vesicatoria Seeds

Blisterleaf; Brandblaar, Katjiedrieblaar, Tandpynblaar, Peperwortel

Knowltonia vesicatoria is one of the few and best fynbos plants for the shady garden. Tough and water-wise, a mature clump of this plant with its attractive foliage makes a striking feature under trees. Knowltonia vesicatoria is a perennial herb with a tuft of leathery, dark green leaves up to 1.2 m tall. The leaves are divided into three leaflets and attached with leaf stalks to a short horizontal rootstock that is firmly anchored by fleshy roots. The pretty, small white or yellowish green flowers are borne in clusters just above the foliage, mainly in spring. The flowers are followed by attractive fleshy fruits that turn black as they ripen. Many species of the Ranunculaceae family contain toxic irritant oil which has prompted people to experiment with the medicinal uses of the plants. The early settlers at the Cape recognized Knowltonia as similar to European herbs such as Helleborus and it quickly became a popular herb with numerous medicinal uses. One was to use the leaves as a plaster over aching backs and joints. The burning sensation, often causing blisters, was considered beneficial for treating arthritis and rheumatism. Colds and flu were treated with a tea made from the roots mixed with Pelargonium roots. Toothache was alleviated by placing a piece of root into the cavity of a decaying tooth.