Description
About sutherlandia
Sutherlandia frutescens is a shrub of the pea family native to the dry regions of southern Africa. It is easy to recognise by its bright red flowers and its inflated, papery seed pods, which give it the name balloon pea.
How it is used
The dried leaves and stems are traditionally prepared as a bitter herbal tea in South Africa.
Common questions
What does the plant look like?
Sutherlandia is a shrub about a metre tall with grey-green leaves, bright red flowers and inflated, papery seed pods.
Where does it grow?
It is native to the drier parts of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana.
How is it traditionally prepared?
The dried leaves and stems are steeped to make a notably bitter herbal tea.
Craft projects with sutherlandia
Sutherlandia is sold as dried, cut herb and can be used in two simple craft projects.
- Soap: about 1 teaspoon of finely ground herb per pound of oils or soap base, for a light speckle.
- Natural dye: 100 to 200 g of dried herb for every 100 g of mordanted fibre. Results with leafy herbs are hard to predict, so dye a small sample first.
The project planner sets out the quantities and steps.
Storage
Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Please note
This is a dried botanical product. We make no health claims about it, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing or taking medication, speak to a qualified professional before using any herb.
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