About Tarchonanthus camphoratus L.
Tarchonanthus camphoratus, commonly called the camphor bush, can grow up to 6 meters tall. Its twigs, younger stems, and the undersides of its leaves are covered in white felt. The upper surface of its leaves is dark olive-green, and bruised leaves give off a strong camphor scent. This species is dioecious. In South Africa, flowers typically appear from December to May, growing as cream-colored panicles arranged in discoid heads. Male flowering heads hold multiple flowers, while female flowering heads hold only a small number of flowers. The fruit produced is a dense, woolly achene. The wood of Tarchonanthus camphoratus is fragrant, close-grained, attractive, durable, and rich in aromatic oils. It is used for firewood, to produce charcoal, as a traditional building material, in horticulture, and for tribal papermaking. Also known as leleshwa, this plant is a source of aromatic oils that are used as fragrances. The Maasai people use its leaves to scent their homes and their bodies. Tarchonanthus camphoratus is used as a traditional remedy for respiratory illnesses, and it has a wide range of other local uses, including for dental hygiene.
