Bushman's Poison

Edibility: 

Not edible. All parts of the plant are highly poisonous. Despite the fruit's resemblance to small plums, they are extremely toxic and should never be consumed.

Toxicity: 

Acokanthera oppositifolia is one of South Africa's most poisonous plants. All parts, especially the fruits (both ripe and unripe), bark, leaves, and roots, contain highly potent cardiac glycosides (such as ouabain or ouabain-like compounds). Ingestion can be fatal to humans and animals. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. Even smoke from burning the wood can be toxic.

Uses: 

Its primary traditional use by indigenous communities (like the San and Khoi) was as a source of extremely potent arrow poison, prepared from the bark, roots, or sap. The name "Bushman's Poison" reflects this historical use. Due to its extreme toxicity, it is rarely used internally in traditional medicine and only by highly experienced practitioners for very specific external applications. Today, it is primarily cultivated as an ornamental garden plant for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and a screening plant, but only with extreme caution and awareness of its toxicity. It is also used as a barrier plant in some contexts.

Ecology: 

The fragrant flowers of Acokanthera oppositifolia attract various insects, including bees, which act as pollinators. Birds (like bulbuls, turacos, and starlings) are attracted to and consume the ripe fruits, helping to disperse the toxic seeds. While the seeds are toxic, the birds appear to be unaffected by the compounds, or the digestive process ensures the seeds pass through unharmed. Its dense growth provides shelter for some small animals.

Distribution and habitat: 

Acokanthera oppositifolia is indigenous to South Africa and is widely distributed across the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, Free State, and North West provinces. It typically grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal dunes, forest margins, bushveld, thickets, rocky outcrops, and on hillsides, often in dry to moist conditions.

Derivation of name: 

• The genus name Acokanthera comes from Greek: "akokos" (sharp point or thorn) and "anthera" (anther), referring to the pointed anthers found in some species. 

• The species name oppositifolia is Latin for "opposite leaves," referring to the characteristic arrangement of its leaves in pairs along the stem. 

• Common names like "Poison Bush" and "Bushman's Poison" directly refer to its potent toxicity and historical use as an arrow poison. "Wintersweet" points to its fragrant winter flowers.

Historical aspects: 

Acokanthera oppositifolia holds significant historical importance due to its use as an arrow poison by the San (Bushmen) and other indigenous hunter-gatherer groups in Southern Africa. The preparation of this poison was a highly skilled and secretive art. This plant's extreme toxicity made it a powerful tool for hunting large game. Despite its danger, its ornamental qualities were also recognised, leading to its cultivation in gardens. Its use as a traditional medicine is very limited and requires profound knowledge due to the high risk of severe poisoning or death.

Interesting facts:

• Don't let its sweet smell fool you! This plant is like a beautiful trap. Its flowers smell amazing, but every single part of the plant, especially the shiny berries, is highly, dangerously poisonous.

• For centuries, some indigenous groups in Southern Africa used this plant's sap as a super-powerful arrow poison for hunting. Talk about a dangerous job!

• While its berries are deadly to humans and most animals, certain birds, like our local starlings and bulbuls, can actually eat them and help spread the seeds without getting sick. How's that for a superpower?

• This tree is an excellent example of nature's warning signs: the beauty of its flowers and fruit contrasts sharply with its extreme toxicity, reminding us to appreciate from a distance.

Growing tips:

• Propagation: Best from fresh seeds, which should be cleaned thoroughly to remove the fleshy outer layer (which is toxic) before planting. Cuttings can also be rooted, though this can be slower.

• Planting: Prefers a sunny or partially shaded position. Plant in well-drained soil.

• Watering: Water regularly when young to establish. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

• Frost Protection: Protect young plants from severe frost. Mature plants can tolerate light frost.

• Pruning: Responds well to pruning to maintain shape and density, especially if grown as a hedge. Always wear gloves when handling, due to the toxic sap.

• Caution: Due to its extreme toxicity, plant Acokanthera oppositifolia with extreme caution, especially if you have children or pets that might be tempted by the attractive berries. Consider planting it in areas inaccessible to curious hands or mouths.