Barley Sugar Bush (Pollichia campestris)

Family Caryophyllaceae

A small, sprawling bush maybe 20cm in height with a jelly-like flower which the Francolin love to eat. Sometimes the little bush consists of only a few branches.

Also know as: Wild Sugar Bush, Waxberry plant; Teesuikerkaroo

 The waxy parts of the fruit have a sweet taste and was apparently used by the boers

during the Great Trek as a sweetener (crushing and crystallizing these flower parts)
hence the name Teesuikerkaroo.

 The steam of an infusion made from this plant is believed to open blocked nasal passages and to treat bronchitis. A popular medicinal use of this plant includes placing warmed leaves externally to help soothe aching muscles and joints, and bruises.

 Information from:

http://www.renu-karoo.co.za/medicinaldocs/Karoo%20MEDICINAL%20PLANTS_eng.pdf

Identification from: http://www.ispot.org.za/