Agathosma is a genus of about 140 species of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae, native to the southern part of Africa. Common names include Buchu, Boegoe, Bucco, Bookoo and Diosma. Buchu formally denotes two herbal species, prized for their fragrance and medicinal use. They are small shrubs and subshrubs, mostly with erect woody stems reaching 30cm to 100cm tall, but low-growing and prostrate in some species. Many of the species are highly aromatic, and the genus name means “good fragrance”. Some species of the genus, most notably Agathosma betulina are used as herbal remedies. The buchus grown commercially for their medicinal properties and essential oils are Agathosma crenulata and Agathosma betulina. Oil is extracted for use in manufacturing cosmetics, soaps and medicinally for the treatment of renal disorder and chest complaints. The medicinal properties of these plants were discovered by the Khoi who named the plants “buchu”.

Add a touch of vibrant colour and fragrance to your garden with Agathosma glabrata, commonly known as sand buchu. This charming South African shrub is known for its bright mauve to purple flowers, which make an eye-catching display in any garden. As part of the buchu family, Agathosma glabrata is easily identifiable by the small, round oil glands on its leaves and fruit, which release a sweet, lemony scent when crushed. The distinctive fragrance is often a telltale sign of this lovely plant, which can be smelled even when brushing against the bush in the veld.

This slow-growing shrub typically reaches a height of 0.5 to 1 meter and has a single-stemmed, round, and dense habit. The flowering season runs from late winter to midsummer (July to December), with the plant producing masses of colourful flowers in clusters of 12-20 individual blooms. The flowers can range from mauve and purple to white and pink, adding a cheerful splash of colour to your garden throughout the colder months. During this time, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for encouraging biodiversity in your garden.

Agathosma glabrata is endemic to South Africa, where it naturally grows in damp sandy plains and dune slacks from Darling to the Cape Peninsula. Sadly, it is assessed as endangered, with its population in decline due to crop cultivation, urban expansion, and the spread of invasive alien plants. This makes growing Agathosma glabrata a special way to contribute to the conservation of South Africa’s unique flora.

In the garden, Agathosma glabrata makes an ideal choice for small beds or containers. When planted in masses or in groups of 3, 5, or 9, it creates a colourful display that thrives in winter and spring. It is perfect for use as a border or filler plant in a mixed fynbos bed or as a pot plant to brighten up patios and small spaces.

By adding Agathosma glabrata to your collection, you not only enjoy its beautiful flowers and aromatic leaves but also help support the conservation of this endangered species. Perfect for fynbos enthusiasts and gardeners seeking a unique, low-maintenance, and fragrant addition to their outdoor spaces.