Spekbome

The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only. This site merely recounts the traditional uses of specific plants as recorded through history. Always seek advice from a medical practitioner. Apple Tree Initiatives and its representatives will not be held responsible for the improper use of any plants or documentation provided.

This wonder plant needs little introduction in the world of garden and environmental enthusiasts. Part sprawling shrub, part small tree, and packs punch in fun size as bonsai. The Elephant Bush or ‘bacon tree’ (as translated from Afrikaans), also known as the porkbush, hails from its native landscape of the semi-deserts, bushveld, and rocky plains in the Eastern Cape. Requiring fairly low maintenance, you can bring the plant inside your home as a succulent dish or hanging plant, while also adding it to your autumn garden as hedging or a natural screen.

Can offset more than 4 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, per hectare planted

This low-maintenance plant can survive on as little as 250 – 350mm of water per year! It has a photosynthetic mechanism which allows it to adapt to all weather conditions so it can survive extreme conditions – from drought to frost

The Spekboom has a long list of benefits:

Hydrates: Just suck a leaf to alleviate thirst and dehydration, reduce exhaustion and symptoms of heatstroke.
Relieves: Crush a leaf and apply to blisters to alleviate pain.
Treats: Chew leaves for sore throats and mouth infections.
Heals: Juice the leaves and use as an antiseptic on wounds.
Soothes: When the pulp gets applied to the skin, it can also calm sore pimples, sensitive rashes, nasty stings, and painful sunburns.
Nutrition: The edible leaves of the Elephantbush are rich in manganese, cobalt, and magnesium, as well as Vitamin C, iodine and selenium. The flavour interestingly changes throughout the day. During the daytime, it tastes very acidic and lemon-like. As evening approaches, the hint of acidity lessens.
Stimulate: It is a fabulous natural resource to eat during famine and also assists breastfeeding mothers in stimulating milk production.
Food: For meal ideas, add the leaves to freshen a salad or toss in a sprig to flavour a stew. Or try your hand at spekboom chutney.