Brachyglottis repanda - Bushman's Friend

Brachyglottis repanda, also known as "Rangiora" or "Bushman's Friend", belongs to the family of Asteraceae and is located in New Zealand. This evergreen plant is a characteristic shrub or small tree that occurs in the forests of the North Island and the northern areas of the South Island of New Zealand. Brachyglottis repanda is primarily known for its large, leathery leaves, which play an important role in traditional New Zealand culture and medicine.

Morphology and appearance

Brachyglottis repanda is a medium -sized, evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 3 to 5 meters. The growth is usually branched and the plant forms a wide crown. The large, up to 25 cm long and 20 cm wide leaves are particularly striking on this plant. These are oval to heart -shaped, with a characteristically jagged leaf edge structure.

The top of the leaves is dark green and shiny, while the underside is covered with dense, white to cream -colored hair. This hair gives the leaves a velvety texture. Due to this soft underside of the leaf, the plant got its nickname "Bushman's Friend" because the leaves in the wilderness were used as natural toilet paper or as bandages.

In spring and early summer, Brachyglottis repanda produces striking inflorescences in the form of loose, panicle -like umbels. The flowers are small, cream -colored to yellowish and have a diameter of about 1 cm. They stand together in numerous groups and form a dense flower mass. The flowering period extends from September to January, with the flowers of polluting insects like bees. After flowering, small, hairy seeds that are spread by the wind are created.

Ecology and distribution

In their natural habitat, Brachyglottis repanda mainly colonizes moist, shady forests and forest edges. It thrives on well -permeable soils, but prefers nutrient -rich, humus locations. The plant occurs up to 600 meters at altitudes and is well adjusted in the moderate rainforests of New Zealand.

The large leaves of the plant play a role in the forest ecosystem because their dense shadows influence the growth of smaller plant species. At the same time, the plant offers living space and protection for many small animals and insects that are in the dense leaves.

In New Zealand Flora, Brachyglottis repanda is an important part of local vegetation. However, in some regions it is threatened in its natural habitat due to deforestation and agricultural use. Nevertheless, in many gardens and parks of New Zealand, it is cultivated as an ornamental plant, which contributes to its preservation.

Traditional use

Brachyglottis repanda plays an important role in traditional medicine in Māori. The leaves were used to treat various skin diseases, wounds and inflammation. A brew from the leaves was also used to relieve pain and to promote wound healing. The antiseptic properties of the plant made them a valuable means of disinfection and healing wounds.

In addition, the leaves were used as envelopes for rheumatic symptoms or swelling. Despite the traditional application, there have so far been only a few scientific studies that show the effectiveness of this medicinal plant, which is why their medical importance is limited in modern western medicine.

Location claims and care

Brachyglottis repanda is an easy -care plant that is well adapted to the moderate climate of New Zealand. In cultivation, it prefers partially shaded to shady locations, but also thrives in sunnier locations, provided the soil is sufficiently moist. The plant is sensitive to frost and should therefore be protected from frost in areas with cooler winters.

The plant needs well -permeable, nutrient -rich soils and is sensitive to waterlogging. Although it can survive dry periods well, additional irrigation should take place in long dry phases. In gardens, Brachyglottis repanda is often used as an ornamental shrub, as it sets decorative accents with its large, striking leaves and their robust growth shape.

A pruning is rarely necessary with this plant, but can be carried out to control the growth shape and to promote denser branching. The plant is relatively resistant to diseases and pests, whereby it can occasionally be affected by aphids or fungal infections.

Meaning in garden culture

In New Zealand and beyond, Brachyglottis repanda is often cultivated in botanical gardens, parks and private gardens. Due to its striking leaves and its ability to green shady areas, the plant is very popular. In particular in natural gardens or as under plantation in forest gardens, their aesthetic effect comes into its own.