Confetti Bush Diosma ericoides L.

Names

• Family

  Rutaceae

• Synonyms

  Cape May, Golden Diosma, Breath Of Heaven

• Common names

  Coleonema album, Coleonema calendulaceum, Coleonema ericoides, Diosma ericoides var. brevifolia, Diosma ericoides var. odorata, Diosma oppositifolia, Diosma pulchra, Hartogia ericoides, Hartogia pulchra.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant Diosma ericoides L., commonly known as Buchu, has a history of traditional medicinal use, particularly in South Africa, where it originates. As of my knowledge cutoff date in 2023, there have been no widely reported cases of toxicity to humans from Buchu. However, it is important to note that any plant may cause a negative reaction if ingested improperly or in large quantities. If there are any undiscovered or unreported toxicities in Buchu to humans, they could potentially range from mild gastrointestinal disturbances to more serious effects, depending on the amount consumed and the individual's sensitivity. Always consult with a healthcare professional before ingesting plants for medicinal purposes.

• To pets

  The common Buchu plant, Diosma ericoides L., does not have widely reported cases of toxicity in pets. However, the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, and individual animals may have unique sensitivities or allergic reactions to plants that are generally considered non-toxic. If a pet ingests part of a Buchu plant and exhibits symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or abnormal behavior, it is advisable for pet owners to seek veterinary attention. It is always a good practice to keep an eye on pets around plants and to prevent them from ingesting unknown foliage.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  3 feet (0.9 meters)

• Spread

  3 feet (0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  South Africa

General Benefits

• Ornamental value: Diosma ericoides, commonly known as Breath of Heaven, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its delicate pink or white flowers and fine, needle-like foliage.
• Drought tolerance: Once established, it's quite drought-resistant, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
• Scented foliage: The plant has fragrant foliage, which releases a pleasant scent when brushed against or crushed, contributing to the sensory garden experience.
• Attracts pollinators: The flowers of Breath of Heaven attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
• Low maintenance: Diosma ericoides is generally low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in a suitable location.
• Soil adaptability: It adapts well to various soil types, although it prefers well-drained conditions, making it versatile for different garden settings.
• Wind resistance: The plant can withstand windy conditions, making it suitable for coastal gardens or exposed sites.
• Privacy and screening: When planted in groups or as a hedge, Diosma ericoides can provide privacy and screen unsightly views with its dense growth habit.
• Erosion control: The plant's root system can help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
• Fast-growing: Breath of Heaven is relatively fast-growing, which allows for quick establishment in the garden.
• Compact size: With its moderate size, it fits well in smaller gardens without overwhelming the space.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Diosma ericoides may possess properties that help reduce inflammation.
• Antimicrobial: The plant could have the ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria or fungi.
• Diuretic: It is suggested to have diuretic effects, promoting the production of urine.
• Antioxidant: Diosma ericoides might contain compounds that can neutralize free radicals, potentially preventing cellular damage.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Diosma ericoides, commonly known as Buchu, can be used in the garden as a decorative, low-maintenance hedge due to its fine, heather-like foliage and small, starry flowers.
• The plant can serve as a companion plant in agricultural settings, repelling pests with its strong scent, thus protecting neighboring crops without the use of chemical insecticides.
• Buchu essential oil, derived from the leaves of the plant, is used in the fragrance industry for its unique, minty aroma to create perfumes and scented products.
• The leaves of Buchu can be used to impart a flavor to preserves and pickles, lending a unique taste to culinary creations.
• It can be used in potpourri mixes because of its strong, pleasant scent, which helps freshen and deodorize living spaces.
• Buchu’s aromatic leaves can be infused in hot water to create a flavorful and aromatic foot soak or bath additive.
• The dried leaves of the plant are sometimes used as an insect repellent for clothes and linens, warding off moths and other insects.
• This plant can be utilized in the craft of making botanical dyes, where its leaves produce dyes for fabrics or natural fibers.
• In floral arrangements and wreath-making, Buchu branches may add a delicate, fine-textured element to the composition.
• Gardeners may use the plant as a natural border marker, due to its consistent growth habit and the ease of trimming it into formal shapes.

Feng Shui

The Diosma is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Diosma is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Purification: Diosma ericoides, commonly known as "Breath of Heaven," is often associated with purification due to its clean, refreshing scent that is released when its leaves are brushed or crushed.
• Protection: The plant has been traditionally used in gardens and homes as a symbol of protection, perhaps stemming from the belief that its strong aroma could ward off evil spirits or negative energies.
• Inspiration: With its name "Breath of Heaven," this plant is also sometimes linked to inspiration, creativity, or divine guidance, suggesting a connection to celestial or spiritual realms.
• Beauty: The delicate appearance of its flowers and fine foliage often symbolizes beauty and the appreciation of subtle elegance in the natural world.