The unique health benefits of snowbush plant –
The snow bush is a tropical plant native to Vanuatu and New Caledonia, and has been cultivated in Hawaii since the 1890s. Growing to a height of 5–8 feet, it features variegated leaves in white, green, and red. Its crisscrossing stems add a splash of color with shades from red to pink.
The flowers are generally inconspicuous, and the fruits are small, round, and red. The slender stems can be trained to trail over walls, and its variegated foliage makes it ideal for hedges or as an accent in gardens or patios. It also does well in containers.
The snow bush goes by several other English names, including calico plant, dwarf snowbush, dwarf snowflake bonsai, old man’s beard, snowbush breynia, snow-on-the-mountain, summer snow, and sweet pea bush.
There are approximately 35 recognized species within the Breynia genus, named after the Polish botanist Jacob Breyne (1637–1697). This genus is part of the larger group of Angiosperms, or flowering plants.
The snow bush is considered an invasive shrub or tree due to its ability to spread quickly from roots in damp soil. It can also be found in areas without previous cultivation, suggesting that seeds can be dispersed by birds.
Removal Challenges
The snow bush is difficult to eradicate. Complete removal involves digging out the plant with its roots intact. Resilience and adaptability are hallmarks of the Brenia Snowbush, making it a dependable companion in your garden or home.
This plant isn’t just about looks; it’s about sturdiness. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, the Brenia Snowbush stands by you, unaffected by occasional neglect. It symbolizes tranquility and positive vibes and offers several benefits:
Ethnomedicinal
The snow bush leaf extract has been used to treat migraines, headaches, toothaches, body pains, and tooth infections. It contains alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, starch, and tannins, which may have therapeutic potential for treating chronic diseases.
For Headaches and Migraine
Wash some fresh leaves, chew about a hand full of about 5 fresh leaves and take a glass of water after about 5 to 10 mins and the symptoms of the migraine will go off
Tooth ache
Chew the stem with the tooth you feel ache. Allow to juice to be soaked in the affected tooth, dip the stem again in salt and leave for a while on the affected tooth and you will feel relief on the affected tooth.
Medicine
The snow bush plant leaves are excellent for making tea to treat colds and fevers. A South African tea company backs this claim, also promoting snowbush tea leaves. They describe the flavor as earthy and reminiscent of wild rosemary.
Air Purifier
The snow bush absorbs common indoor pollutants and releases oxygen, improving overall air quality.
Ornamental
The snow bush is popular for hedges, borders, or as an accent plant in gardens and patios. It can be grown in containers outdoors in warm regions or indoors in cooler areas.
Toxin-Free Atmosphere
The Brenia Snowbush contributes to a toxin-free atmosphere by absorbing common indoor pollutants and enhancing air quality through oxygen release. This process makes the snow bush a functional addition to any room.
Care Instructions
The snow bush thrives in various soil types but prefers consistent moisture. Whether starting from seeds, cuttings, or root suckers, it should be watered every one to three days to prevent the soil from drying out. Being a tropical plant, it doesn’t tolerate temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If the leaves turn brown in colder climates, wait until warmer weather to prune the damaged leaves.
For dense growth, the snow bush requires full sunlight. Regular pruning helps shape and thicken the hedge. While the plant generally resists diseases, caterpillars and spider mites can be problematic. Handpick the caterpillars and use horticultural soap for other pests.
