Bulbine frutescens Medicus

A rare and unusual South African succulent with wide-spreading, dense clumps of fleshy, leaves. Bulbine frutescens 'Medicus' is a close relative and very similar to Aloe, producing intriguing, evergreen, long, thin succulent foliage. The bushy clumps create excellent weed-suppressing groundcover. Long-stalked spikes appear in late summer, each holding unique buds with a green stripe. In autumn the buds open to reveal orange and yellow starry flowers. Native to South Africa, Bulbine frutescens is often kept on a windowsill to enable quick access to the clear, jelly-like fluid that comes from a cut leaf. This is used as a salve, and is said to soothe burns, rashes, blisters and insect bites or stings, hence another common name is Burn Jelly Plant. A rhizomatous perennial, Bulbine frutescens will happily thrive in coastal areas, and prefers to be grown in well-drained soil in a sunny spot - although it can cope with partial shade. Plants are drought tolerant once established and reach a height of 50cm with a spread of up to 1.5m A half-hardy, evergreen perennial which needs some protection from frost so is ideal for a container which can be relocated during colder weather.