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Burn Jelly Plant

Bulbine frutescens

$9.50

A member of the Asphodelaceae family and also known as Stalked Bulbine and Snake Flower, this healing evergreen plant originates from South Africa. It grows in clumps of strappy, fleshy, thornless leaves, sending up attractive yellow flower spikes in late spring and flowering through summer into autumn. Height to 50 cm, spread to 1.5 m. Frost hardy to -5 degrees.

9cm pot

Photos: Kahikatea Farm

Cultivation

Burn Jelly plants require a sheltered situation in full sun (preferably) or partial shade, with a well-drained, and preferably loamy soil, and very little water. They are perfect for xeriscaping, rock and gravel gardens and part of a fire-wise landscape. They also thrive in containers, and  as houseplants in moderate to good light on an indoor windowsill. Clumps can be divided to maintain size required, and flowers deadheaded to encourage further production.

Uses

The flowers are a good food source for both butterflies and bees.

Both leaves and flowers are said to be edible, and if related species are anything to go by, the root most probably is too, though I cannot find confirmation of this. The plant is also said to be very effective for treating wounds, sores and rashes on animals.

The roots help stabilize soil, preventing erosion in their native habitats.

Medicinal Uses

The leaves can be used like the better-known Aloe vera – they contain a similar jelly-like substance which is said to help heal when applied to wounds, skin infections, eczema, burns, rashes, blisters, insect bites, cracked lips and skin, acne, cold sores, mouth ulcers and ringworm.  An infusion of fresh leaves can also be made to help relieve coughs, colds and arthritis though care should be taken when using internally. An excellent and easy first aid plant to be grown, harvested and used by kids.

History / Folklore / Further Info

Jo Says

I enjoyed seeing these growing in the Mediterranean Biome at the Eden Project in the UK on my visit in 2024.

Shipping Advice

N.B. Shipping costs are added AFTER you have placed your order, you will then be emailed an invoice with bank details. 

Smallest box rate:
This can fit up to 9 plants in 9cm pots.

Shipping a single tree can be expensive. We may be able to fit more in the box for the same price! See our shipping rates for single and multi tree boxes.

Combining sizes?
No problem, we will work out the best rate for you once you’ve placed your order.

Medical disclaimer

Jo has a passion for growing herbs but is not a qualified herbalist and has no medical background.

We are lucky to have Patricia Beagle working here at times, who is qualified, and some of her advice does appear on these pages, but herbs act differently for different people and can interact with other medicines. We therefore always recommend that you consult with your own qualified health-care practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications.

Kahikatea Farm cannot take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants or a plant not having the effect it is reputed to have. 

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