Page 11 - may2021

forager’s tips

edible plants - Citrullus lanatus

Citrullus lanatus, Makataan, tsamma melon
Citrullus lanatus is a prostrate or climbing annual vine,
flowering mostly from January to April it produces an edible fruit
from February to May. The rind of the fruit is pale or grey-green,
usually mottled with irregular longitudinal bands of dark green or
grey-green, and the flesh is firm, white, and green-white or
yellowish. It can easily be recognized by its large fruit which is
unique in the cucumber family of our region. The more familiar
watermelon is native to northern africa.

medicinal plants - Tulbaghia acutiloba
Tulbaghia acutiloba, wild garlic, is an indigenous bulbous
perennial with small white and orange flowers. It grows in rocky
areas around Botswana. Wild garlic is used in traditional medicine
to treat flu and bad breath, and is being studied for its possible
use for the treatment as well as prevention of hypertension and
oxidative stress related diseases. Traditionally it is also used as an
aphrodisiac, and in applications to do with magic. The garlic smell
of the leaves is believed to repel snakes, and it is widely used in
companion planting, much like garlic. The leaves are eaten as a culinary
herb.
poisonous plants - Drimia altissima
Drimia altissima, is a perennial bulbous plant with tall
beautiful flowers. Although used medicinally, the bulb is poisonous
in anything but small doses, and has been traditionally used for rat
control. Bulbs and leaves of Drimia species can cause itching and
skin inflammation because of their calcium oxalate content.
Poisoning symptoms include vomiting and seizure. Many cases of
livestock poisoning are linked to this plant, so add to your garden
with caution, making sure to keep it away from animals that might
be tempted to eat it.
invasive plants - Opuntia species

Opuntia species, Prickly pear, many species have become
naturalised and problematic globally, especially in arid areas like
Botswana. Invasive Opuntia species impact negatively on biodiversity.
They are difficult to remove manually due to their prickly spines,
which increases herbicide use in attempts to eradicate their spread,
further negatively impacting the environment. Although many species
provide benefits through their use as fencing, food, medicinal
products and fodder, overall, the species reduces the value of conservation
areas, and grazing land Text & Photos by S.C
.

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