Merwilla plumbea, commonly known as Blue Scilla of Africa or Blue Hyacinth, is a striking perennial bulb with tall, blue-purple flower plumes. Known as Kherere in Sotho. The Afrikaans name “blouberglelie” refers to its blue mountain lily appearance, while “blouslangkop” or blue snake’s head highlights how the emerging flower resembles a snake. Its flowers provide a vibrant contrast to its rocky, dry habitat.
Though visually beautiful, the bulb is toxic to mammals, particularly livestock, if consumed raw. Despite its toxicity, the plant plays a vital role in traditional South African medicine, known as muthi. Medicinally, the bulb is used to treat various ailments like wounds, sprains, fractures, and even infertility. It is especially popular in KwaZulu-Natal, where decoctions and powders made from the plant are applied externally or taken as enemas to address conditions such as chest pain or digestive issues. Its toxic nature, however, requires that it be handled with care, as ingesting the plant raw can be fatal. Even its sap can irritate the skin.
The plant holds magical significance in Tswana culture, with the powdered bulb being rubbed on the body to ward off witchcraft. Its medicinal properties have been supported by research, showing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. While it has shown potential toxicity in sheep, its effects on other animals, like goats, are less harmful. Interestingly, the plant has also been used in soap-making due to the soap-like quality of its bulb.