geelkatstert, wildekopieva
ibhucu
intelezi
Bulbine abyssinica is a perennial, succulent herb that forms small clusters or tufts with soft, fleshy, grass-like leaves in a basal rosette. The leaves are linear, dark green, and erect or arching, usually up to 35 cm long. The plant produces star-shaped, bright yellow flowers with bearded stamens on long, slender stalks, mainly in spring and summer, but may flower throughout the year in cultivation. The inflorescence is a dense, many-flowered spike that can reach up to 80 cm tall. Fruits are small, black capsules containing fine seeds.
The bright yellow flowers attract a wide range of pollinating insects, especially bees, supporting local pollinator populations. The plant provides ground cover and microhabitat for small invertebrates, and its dense mats help with soil stabilization and erosion control in rocky grassland habitats. It is not scorched by cool grass fires and is important in grassland ecology.
Star-shaped yellow flowers with bearded stamens, pollinated by insects; fruits are small black capsules containing fine seeds, dispersed by wind and water.
Indirectly supports insectivorous birds by attracting pollinators and other insects; dense foliage offers shelter for small species.
Sow seeds in spring or early summer in well-drained soil; seeds germinate rapidly, usually within 1–2 weeks. Seedlings grow fast and can flower within the first year.
Can be divided by separating clumps; vegetative propagation is easy and best done in early spring.
Used in traditional medicine for treating wounds, burns, dysentery, cracked lips, and other skin conditions; leaves and sap applied topically.
Not a primary fodder species but not known to be toxic; sometimes grazed by livestock in disturbed areas.
Not known to be toxic.
Valuable for grassland restoration, erosion control, and supporting pollinator diversity; helps stabilize soils and increase plant and insect diversity in restoration projects.
