Common Name:

General Information

Otholobium virgatum is a low-growing shrub with decumbent, slender stems that trail over the ground to form a mat of growth.
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and drink. It is grown as an ornamental in gardens, where it can be used to form a ground cover.
The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Southern Africa - southern S. Africa

Habitat

Dry hilly or mountain places[]. Found in a wide range of habitats, but growing particularly well in disturbed areas.

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Shrub
Height	0.15 m
Pollinators	Bees, Butterflies
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Otholobium virgatum is adapted to a sub-tropical, Mediterranean climate with most of the rain falling in the cool season. It is found in mainly frost-free areas.
Grows best in a sunny position, but tolerant of some shade. Prefers a sandy to medium-textured soil[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

An aromatic tea is made from the leaves[].

Medicinal

The leaves are made into a salve or brewed into a tea that is used to treat sores and various ailmants[].

Agroforestry Uses:

The plant can be used as a ground cover[].
The flowers are a good source of nectar for bees[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and sow in early to mid spring in a greenhouse[]. as soon as they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in the cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of actively growing stems usually root quickly and easily if kept moist[]. Plants usually root within 2 - 4 weeks[].