Agathosma betulina, commonly known as round leaf buchu, is an evergreen shrub native to the mountainous regions of the Western Cape in South Africa, specifically within fynbos habitats. It typically grows to a height of up to 7 feet and features small, rounded, fragrant leaves that are glossy and full of essential oils. The plant produces clusters of white or pale pink star-shaped flowers that are particularly showy during the blooming season, which occurs in the southern hemisphere’s spring and early summer months.

Round leaf buchu is valued for its aromatic leaves and the essential oils derived from them, which are used to flavor teas, candies, and buchu brandy. In the garden, it is often used as a border plant or for aromatic and ornamental purposes. Buchu prefers well-drained, sandy soils and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It thrives in full sun to part shade conditions. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. In traditional medicine, buchu has been used to treat urinary tract infections and other ailments. Cultivation outside its native range should be done with care, as it may not tolerate extreme cold or heat.CC BY-SA 4.0