Plants and Seeds

50 seed $3
1" seedling 6-7 years old $10
1.5" + plant 8-9 years old $14

50 seed $3
3/4"-1" plant 6-7 years old $10

Astrophytum myriostigma v. quadricostatum "Bishop's Cap"
Chunky globular cactus to 6" in diameter and height. This rare and much sought after variety has only 4 ribs completely covered in minute white-gray scales. Felty areoles with no spines. Large yellow flowers bloom all summer. Found growing in areas of central Mexico.          

Blossfeldia liliputana
The smallest known cactus. Forms little clusters of multiple flattened disc-shaped stems that rarely exceed 3/4" in diameter. The tiny gray-green bodies have no ribs or tubercles, just spiraling areoles bearing tufts of wool and no spines. Yellow flowers and tuberous roots. Native to northern Argentina and southern Bolivia where the plants are found growing on rocky slopes and often between cracks in the sides of vertical stone cliffs. Except for certain parasites and aquatics, this species possesses the lowest density of stomata of any terrestrial flowering plant. This remarkable miniature has been found to lose up to 80% of its moisture in one year and then survive drought for an additional year, making it very similar to mosses and lichens in being adapted to withstand near complete loss of moisture! The miniscule seeds should be sown on the surface of a very finely sifted soil mix. These plants are very slow growing and should be watered by carefully misting with a hand held spray bottle until they are large enough to be watered normally. Some shade is preferred and a very well draining potting mix. We have even heard of people successfully growing this plant on a porous rock. Because of their slow growth rate, Blossfeldias are often grafted, which causes them to grow very fast and offset heavily but lose their characteristic disc-like shape, becoming quite globular and bloated. Any way this miniature is grown, it is a true wonder of the vegetal kingdom.        

Echinocereus triglochidiatus v. mojavensis  San Bernardino Co.
Gray-green stems to 8" tall. The 2"-3" spines, initially bright red or yellow but soon turning gray, curve and twist around the plant. 2.5" carmine red flowers erupt from the sides of the stems in spring. In the wild, plants form large mounds which have been found to consist of over 200 heads! Tasty edible fruits. In our opinion this is the most striking variety of E. triglochidiatus. The Tarahumara consider closely related E. triglochidiatus v. neomexicanus to be sacred and utilize it for magical and medicinal purposes. Our seeds were collected in San Bernardino County, CA. Quite cold hardy to at least 10° F.         

Echinocereus triglochidiatus v. mojavensis f. inermis
Gray-green stems to 6" tall, almost completely spineless. Red flowers in spring. Forms large clusters with age. This rare spineless form is found growing on the mesas and mountains of southwest Colorado and southeast Utah. Cold hardy to at least 10° F.      

Epithelantha micromeris "Hikuli Mulato"
A small button cactus with minute dense white spines. Tiny pink flowers arise from the wooly crown, followed by club-shaped bright pink fruit. Revered by the Tarahumara of the eastern range of the Sierra Madre Occidental, it is utilized by shamans to heighten perception and clear the senses. The whole plant, including fruit, is used as a stimulant and protective charm by runners. Also known to prolong life. Prefers a soil with excellent drainage.        

Harrisia pomanensis "Pitaya"
Semi epiphytic cactus with long thin stems having 4-7 ribs and small spines. Large funnel form white flowers, nocturnal and sweet. Prolific 2" red fruit with sweet white flesh. Native to Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. Easy to grow plant that shows promise as a fruit crop. Trellis and keep above 40° F.     

Hylocereus undatus "Pitahaya" "Dragon Fruit"
A vining forest cactus with 3 ribbed jointed stems up to 15' long. Huge funnel shaped flowers, up to 1' long and 8" wide, yellow sepals and white petals, blossoming at night, sweetly scented. Produces an abundance of unusual egg-shaped red fruits, 3"-5" long and 2"-3.5" in diameter, with delicious white pulp. Long cultivated for its edible fruit, its exact origin is uncertain, most likely Central America. In the last few decades it has become an important fruit crop in Southeast Asia and Israel. Easily grown, trellis and keep above 45° F. Our seed is from plants that produced fruit 12 ounces or more in weight.       

Opuntia phaeacantha "Desert Prickly Pear"
Sprawling clumps to 3' tall and up to 8' wide made up of numerous flat rounded stem segments or "pads", blue green in color, taking on a purplish tint in full sun. Minuscule glochids and several 1"-3" long spines per areole. Big bright yellow flowers that turn shades of pinkish orange as they age. Large red purple fruits relished by humans and wildlife. Widespread and variable throughout the southwestern USA & Mexico. This cactus was important to several Native American tribes as a food stuff. In addition to the fruits, the seeds were ground into a flour and the pads were cleaned of their spines and eaten raw or cooked. The Pima also made a poultice of heated stems and applied them to breasts to encourage milk flow. Hardy to  0° F.    

Pachycereus pecten-aborginum "Cardon" "Chawe"
Tree like columnar cactus up to 30' tall. Stems reach 1' or more in diameter and have 10-12 ribs with spines up to 1" long. Small white and purple flowers followed by spiny yellow fruit. Native to northern and central Mexico. The fruits were utilized as combs by natives. A sacred plant of the Tarahumara, the mucilage and sap of the trunk and young branches is used as medicine. A tea is made to treat aches, pains, as a purgative and laxative. Added to corn beers to increase the strength. Easily grown. Protect from frost.        

Pachycereus pringlei "Cardon" "Sahueso"
Gigantic columnar cactus that forms huge candelabra like stands to 60' tall. Individual stems can grow as wide as 1 meter and have 10-16 gray-green ribs covered in 1"+ stout white spines. Oddly, the upper growth of tall stems is often completely spineless. 3"-4" white nocturnal flowers that are pollinated by bats. Golf ball size spiny yellow fruits. A Mexican species that grows throughout Baja and from Sonora to Nayarit near the coast. Natives consider this cactus a sacred living spirit and utilize it for many purposes. Fruits and seeds were once an important food source. Fruit pulp was eaten fresh, cooked or made into preserves and the nutritious seeds were toasted and made into a pinole called "haixa" by the Seri. The now extinct Baja Indians and to a lesser extent the Seri of Sonora practiced extensive recycling of the seeds known as "second harvest." After eating great quantities of Cardon fruit the Indians would defecate on large flat rocks and let the matter completely dry out in the hot summer sun. They would then retrieve the seeds and thoroughly clean, cook and eat them. The inner wood of the Cardon was also used extensively for constructing homes, fences, spears, canes and other tools. The Seri were known to bury the placenta of a newborn at the base of these giants. Fruit preserves were used for dysentery and slabs of Cardon flesh for treating aches and wounds. Study of cave paintings in Baja suggest the plant was used shamanically by extinct tribes. Easily grown. Germinate like other cacti, but press the large seeds directly into the soil mix. Bright strong light and regular succulent culture is needed. Protect from frost when young. We have found plants over a foot tall to be cold hardy down to at least 28° F.        

Selenicereus grandiflorus "Queen of the Night"
Thin, cylindrical, climbing stems with 5-8 ribs and small bristly spines. The genus derives its name from the Greek selene (moon) which is in reference the enormous (12"!) white funnelform flowers with yellow-brown sepals and an incredible vanilla like perfume. The nocturnal flowers only last a single night. The specific origin of this epiphytic tropical cactus is unknown, but it occurs wild in eastern  Mexico and throughout the Caribbean. The flowers and young stems are widely used in herbal medicine as an effective heart tonic. It's also known to help with urinary infections and is used topically for rheumatism. Mrs. Grieve's herbal reports that large doses produce delirium and hallucination. Cultivated commercially in Mexico for the herbal industry. Likes a rich soil and lots of water and food to bloom successfully. Give it a trellis or bush to climb on and protect from direct frost.     

Seed packet $2.50

Stenocereus stellatus “Xoconochtli” “Tuchikishi” “Pitayo”
Shrubby multi-branched cactus to 12'. Dark green stems up to 4" diameter with 8–12 tuberculate ribs and spines 1"–2" long. Relatively small tubular pale rose colored flowers open at night. 1"–2" edible fruit with a juicy pulp that is ether sweet or sour depending upon the clone and variable in color, either purple, red, pink, orange, yellow, or white. Native to south central Mexico where the fruits are in great demand both fresh and dried, made into jams and fermented drinks. Cultivated for millennia, archaeological studies show that the plant has been eaten since at least 5,000 B.C. Nahua, Mixtec, and Popoloca people tend wild populations, often selecting desirable clones and cultivatiing them as living fences around their agricultural fields. This cactus responds very well to cultivation, producing much more abundant and larger fruits than wild plants. In addition to the fruits, the stems, flowers and seeds are also consumed. Cleaned seeds are rich in protein and essential fats, ground into a paste and made into a sauce, they are eaten with tortillas. The wood from the central tissue of the cactus is used in construction. This amazing cactus also holds great potential as a food crop outside of Mexico. The plant is easy to grow in a sunny frost free environment.

Strombocactus disciformis
Gray-green spherical cactus, up to 5" in diameter. 12-18 spirally arranged ribs divided into unusual rhomboid tubercles, each bearing 1-5 delicate white spines up to 2/3" in length. The spines usually fall off with age. Creamy white flowers appear in summer. Fine dust like seeds. In habitat these plants often grow flattened or disc like but lose this characteristic in cultivation. Native to the Mexican states of Hidalgo and Queretaro where the plants are only found growing on steep calcerous cliffs along canyon walls or stream beds. Closely related to Obregonia and Turbinicarpus. Highly valued by collectors and extremely slow growing. Treat like Turbinicarpus in cultivation.    

Trichocereus bridgesii f. monstrosus clone B
One of 2 disitinct mutant clones of this beautiful blue-green Bolivian cactus. 2-5 ribs initially bearing 3" yellow spines then becoming smooth and spineless. The stems reach 4"-6" in length then stop growing and begin to offset. Eventually forms dense stands to 6' tall made up of hundreds of small multi-branched stems.       

Trichocereus glaucus
Bushy cactus that grows to 4'-6' tall then tends to go prostrate. Blue-gray stems with 7-9 ribs and spines as long as 1.5". The spines are at first amber red then turn black and eventually gray. White night-blooming flowers. A desireable and seldom seen species native to southern Peru. Hardy to at least 25° F.    

Trichocereus pasacana (=Helianthocereus pasacana) "Cardon Santos"
Massive tree like species up to 30' tall. The stems grow up to 1.5' thick and branch from near the base. 15-35 ribs covered in numerous dense white or yellow spines up to several inches long. In some specimens the spines are flexible and bristly, resembling coarse hair. 5" white day blooming flowers, followed by edible fruits known as "Pasacana." Wide spread throughout the desolate high deserts of northern Argentina and southern Bolivia. Considered a "holy" cactus. Ashes of the fruits, seeds and flowers are known to be used in special "llipta" mixtures, lime preparations that are chewed with coca (Erythroxylum species) leaves to help activate their remarkable stimulating properties. Natural hybrids with T. terscheckii occur and the two plants are sometimes confused. Easy and hardy to 15° F.     

Trichocereus terscheckii "Cardon Grande"
Gigantic tree like cactus to 40' tall and 2' in diameter. 8-14 ribs with widely spaced areoles bearing 8-15 yellow spines as long as 2"-4". White nocturnal flowers. Becoming a popular landscape plant in the U.S. because it resembles the Saguaro (Carnegeia gigantea) but can be successfully grown in areas of higher rainfall and colder temperature. Found throughout the high deserts of northern Argentina. Cold hardy to 15° F.     

Trichocereus sp. Torres & Torres
Dark green upright stems to 12'+ in height and 6"+ in diameter. Small, stout, amber colored spines. Somewhat similar to Trichocereus pachanoi. From material collected by archaeologist Manuel Torres & his wife Donna in the northern part of central Chile. Cold hardy to 25° F.     

Trichocereus huascha v. macranthus X Trichocereus "Daemonomania"
A beautiful yellow flowered variety of T. huascha mated with another amazing plant, T. 'Daemonomania'- a hybrid between T. bruchii and another unknown Trichocereus, most likely T. huascha. Named after John Crowley's wondrously potent novel, which in some ways evokes this impressive cactus. Clustering 6" diameter dark green stems to 3'+ tall covered in long tortuos yellow spines to 2.5". Brilliant orange flowers and large orange skinned delicious fruit. Hardy to 15° F.     

Trichocereus pachanoi X Trichocereus sp. "Juul's Giant"
A nice hybrid of these two short spined, nocturnal flowering plants.    

Trichocereus sp. SS02X Trichocereus pachanoi
Trichocereus SS02 is a dinstinct T. bridgesii clone crossed here with T. pachanoi.

Turbinicarpus alonsoi
Small, flattened gray-green stem to 3" in diameter. The ribs are divided into many triangular tubercles tipped with gray fuzz and 3-5 papery spines. Remarkable rose-magenta colored flowers. Discovered in 1994 growing on shale canyon walls in a remote area of north eastern Guanajuato. The most highly prized and slowest growing Turbinicarpus. Looks remarkably like an Ariocarpus or Obregonia. Interestingly, young juvenile plants are hard to distinguish from Strombocactus seedlings. This Turbinicarpus is still extremely rare in cultivation and every effort should be made to propagate since plants are highly threatened by illegal collecting in their natural habitat.

Turbinicarpus jauernigii
A peyote look alike. Flattened red-purple stems to 2" in diameter. The nearly non-existent tubercles bear 1-3 short, stubby white spines with black tips. Unusual brown-white flowers and a large tap-root. Grows near Palomas, San Luis Potosi. An extremely rare little gem that is seldom seen in cultivation.     

Turbinicarpus lausseri (=Turbinicarpus pseudomacrochele v. lausseri)
Little stems up to 2" in diameter. Spiralled rows of small conical tubercles tipped with bristle like black and gray spines that curl around the top of the plant. Purple-red flowers. First discovered in 1986 growing on the steep rocky slopes of the Sierra el Doctor, Queretaro. This plant is very similar to Turbinicarpus krainzianus. Rare in cultivation.     

Turbinicarpus pseudopectinatus (=Pelecyphora pseudopectinatus)
A rare small globular cactus with many small spirally-arranged tubercles tipped with numerous tiny white spines in a comb like formation. White to magenta colored flowers bloom in spring. Native to Tamaulipas.    

Turbinicarpus valdezianus (=Pelecyphora valdezianus)
Miniature globose-cylindrical plant to 1.5" diameter. Spirally arranged tubercles tipped with white, feathery radial spines that obscure the body of the plant. Magenta to white flowers bloom in spring. A unique cactus that is found in isolated areas of Coahuila and San Luis Potosi.       

Other Succulents and Xerophytes

Adansonia digitata "Baobab"
Bombacaceae. African tree to 60' with the thickest trunk in the world; up to 30' in diameter! Large white heavily scented flowers, followed by foot long fruits filled with citrus flavored pulp. Edible seeds and leaves are used as immunostimulants against dysentery and malaria. Bark used to treat fevers. Known to live for thousands of years, these massive beings are held sacred and worshipped as fertility trees by many Africans. Easy from seed; just nick and soak until swollen, then sow 0.5" deep. Should germinate in 1-4 weeks. Seedlings like good drainage and lots of root room. Does well in the greenhouse or a sunny window. Makes an interesting bonsai subject.      

Adansonia madagascariensis "Baobab"
Huge cone-shaped swollen trunk to 100' or more tall. Bright red flowers. This sacred baobab is rare but widespread throughout the western coastal forests of Madagascar.

Adansonia rubrostipa (=Adansonia fony) "Baobab"
One of the smaller species of baobab. Up to 40' tall with an often obese ellipsoid trunk. Large yellow and red flowers. Native to Madagascar's west coast and southwest at an elevation of up to 1000'. Endangered.

Adansonia saurezensis "Baobab"
A very rare and majestic Madagascar baobab tree to 100' tall. Straight trunk and large red flowers. Extinction may be imminent...  

Adansonia za "Baobab"

A single cylindrical trunk, often with irregular swellings. A variable species from 15' to 100' tall. Yellow flowers. Widespread from extreme southern to northwestern Madagascarn.    

Agave parryi "Mescal" "Maguey"
Agavaceae. Rosettes of gray-green leaves with hooked spines along the margins and tipped with a sharp black spine. Forms clusters to several feet in diameter. Flowering stalk arises from the center of the rosette and can reach nearly 20' in height. Bears numerous orange-yellow flowers. Takes 15-20 years to bloom, then the rosette dies. A variable species native to Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. Natives have long used the plant as an important source for fiber, food, soap and medicine. A potent wine was made by fermenting the heart of the plant. Dried flower stalks have become a popular source for making didgeridoos. Easy from seed, regular succulent care. Cold hardy.      

Aloe ferox "Umhlaba"
Large, single stemmed plant 6'-10' tall with the old dried leaves covering the lower portion of the stem. Broad, thick and spiny red-green leaves up to 1 meter long. Huge, dense, multi-branched spikes of red, orange and occasionally yellow flowers. The most common source of Cape aloes, commercial plantations have been started in Albertinia, South Africa. This plant is portrayed in bushman rock paintings and the flower nectar is said to have narcotic properties. Hardy to 25° F.   

Aloe marlothii "Mokgopha"
Forms a small tree up to 20' tall. Rosettes of green leaves with impressive red thorns and horizontal racemes of showy amber yellow flowers. In addition to this Aloe being a source of Cape aloes and a common medicine for stomach troubles, the dried and powdered leaves are popular among natives as an admixture to snuffs. Tolerant of moderate frost.          

Aspalathus linearis "Rooibos"
Fabaceae. Shrub 3'-6' tall with bright green needle like leaves and yellow pea flowers. Somewhat resembles a leafless common broom. Endemic to South Africa. The leaves and twigs are a traditional beverage of the Khoi people, lightly fermented and brewed as a tea. Rooibos tea has become increasingly popular in the last few years, it has a wonderful flavor and is one of our personal favorites. The nutritious tea is considered adaptogenic and has powerful antioxidant action, useful for a wide variety of ailments and for promoting longevity. The plants prefer a sunny, well drained sandy soil. Drought tolerant. Hardy to below 20° F once established. Scarifying the seed and soaking for 48 hours prior to sowing should help germination. The plant is unknown in cultivation outside South Africa and we only have a small supply of seed to offer.     

Avonia ustulata (=Anacampseros ustulata) "Moerplantjie"
Similar to A. papyracea but more unusual, developing a mass of miniature branching stems. Thought to be the Khoi peoples original source for yeast. Several Avonia are reported to be psychoactive.     

Commiphora africana “Gum Bdellium” “Mothapo”
Burseraceae. Deciduous shrub to small tree with gray flaking bark, trifoliate leaves, and small red flowers. An African species, similar to Myrrh, the aromatic resin is used to treat fevers, cramps, snake bite, and as an insecticide. Edible roots. Diamphidia beetle larva live at tthe roots of the plant and are used by the San to prepare a powerful arrow poison. Grow like Bursera. Protect from frost.
5 seed $4 (limited)

Commiphora mollis “Mugumbati”
Burseraceae. Tree to 25'. Grey to dark green bark and deciduous velvety compound leaves. Small reddish flowers. A southern African species found in hot, dry areas. The roots are eaten by people, elephants and warthogs. Poles from the tree are used in ceremonies and the wood is carved for ornaments and utensils. Grow like Bursera. Protect from cold.
5 seed $4

Commiphora mukul  "Guggul"

Burseraceae. Attractive small tree with spinescent branches, thickened trunks and gray peeling bark. Grows wild in the semi-arid states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka in India. The sweet smelling aromatic sap, similar to Myrrh, has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years as a treatment for arthritic conditions and heart disease. Modern clinical studies show it to be anti-inflammatory, lower cholesterol and burn excess body fat. Rare in cultivation. Easy to grow, deciduous, protect from frost.     

Crinum buphanoides
Amaryllidaceae. A large bulb with long strap like leaves. Flowering stalks bearing stunning pink flowers with beautiful narrow petals. Native to southern Africa. Has analogous traditional uses to C. macowanii. Summer grower, Winter dormant. Likes well draining soil and somewhat dry conditions. Tolerant of some frost. A rare and gorgeous plant.    

Crinum macowanii "Umduze"
Forms large bulbs up to 6" in diameter. Strap shaped leaves to 4' long. During summer stalks arise from the center of the plant bearing numerous large trumpet shaped flowers, nearly white inside with pink bands on the outside. Flowers are lightly scented and bees are attracted to them. Found in southern Africa in Namibia, Zambia, Swaziland, and Botswana as well as in South Africa provinces of Mpumalanga, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and Eastern Cape, often growing near streams or swampy areas. Contains a number of highly toxic alkaloids some of which have antitumor activity. A Zulu remedy for rheumatic fever, glandular swellings, kidney disease and various skin problems. This species is summer growing and loses its leaves in winter. Likes a rich soil, lots of water and regular feedings during the growing season. Hardy to at least 25° F and below if well mulched.          

Cyclopia galioides "Honeybush Tea"

Fabaceae. Small stout shrub to 3', bright yellow pea flowers. Endemic to the Cape fynbos region of South Africa. The leaves, twigs and blossoms are lightly fermented and made into a tea that is a traditional drink of the Khoi and San people. The tea is now highly esteemed outside its native range due to its delectable taste and health generating effects. This drought tolerant plant is virtually unknown in cultivation outside South Africa. Sow 1/4" deep to germinate in 2-6 weeks, prefers cool weather to germinate. Hardy to at least 20° F.     

Delosperma bosseranum H2902
Small narrow leaves, white flowers and tuberous roots. Native to Madagascar. Good in small pots.      

Delosperma echinatum
Shrubby groundcover with small fat succulent leaves that resemble miniature pickles. Small yellow flowers bloom most of the year. An attractive South African native. Super easy, tolerant of light frost.     

Delosperma lehmanni
Attractive stubby blue-green leaves, yellow flowers. A wonderful groundcover. Cold hardy.

Delosperma uncinatum
Erect spreading shrublet with thickened 3 sided leaves. White flowers with purple tips. Cold hardy to at least 20° F. Easily cared for.   

Dioscorea elephantipes (=Testudinaria elephantipes) "Elephant's Foot" "Turtleback"
Forms a large globose caudex, covered in a corky bark that separates with age into superbly sculptured, prominent, polygonal tubercles. Twining annual vines arise from the top of the caudex bearing glossy green heart shaped leaves and tassels of small yellow flowers. Native to South Africa where the caudex can become massive with age, up to 2 meters in diameter and height and weighing up to 700 pounds! The inner flesh of the caudex is reportedly edible and eaten by bushmen. Plants were once nearly eradicated in the wild during the search for commercially valuable sources of steroidal saponins like diosgenin; used to synthesize cortisone and birth control pills. Fortunately, removal of plants from their habitat proved difficult and as cheaper and more viable sources of these steroids became available, collection efforts ceased. This plant responds well to cultivation and makes an easy and wonderfully unusual houseplant. General succulent care. Sow seeds 1/4" deep and keep warm. Sprouts best in indirect light. The caudex is initially formed underground, and though you'll want to expose it, we recommend you leave it covered for the first 2-3 years because growth is most rapid this way. This plant is a must have for collectors of the bizarre!            

Dudleya abramsii ssp. murina
Crassulaceae. Rosettes of slender glaucous leaves from a small branching caudex to about 4". Flower stalks to 6" with small purplish flowers. Endemic to the serpentine outcrops in the hills around San Luis Obispo, California. Sow seed like cacti. Plants need bright light and a dry Summer rest, when the leaves will shrivel until Autumn rains revive. Hardy to at least 25° F.
Seed packet $3

Dudleya caespitosa
Upright branching stems to 2" thick and 12" tall, topped with rosettes of silvery lanceolate leaves. Large flowers stalks to 16" with dozens of yellow flowers. Loved by hummingbirds. A coastal species, found in sandy soils from Los Osos north through Monterey, California. Seeds from Los Osos populations. Keep relatively dry in Summer. Hardy to at least 25° F.
Seed packet $2.50
 
Dudleya pulverulenta
One of the largest of the genus, forms a rosette up to 30", usually unbranched. The leaves can be up to 18" long and 3" wide, covered in a fine white powder that gives the plant an spectacular appearance. Large multi-branched flower stalk to 4' with dozens of bright red flowers. Native to isolated areas, from San Luis Obispo County, south to Baja. A hummingbird magnet when blooming. This seed is from the northernmost populations, growing on steep south east facing sandstone outcrops in the hills near Avila, California. Needs soil with excellent drainage and a dry summer rest. Hardy to at least 25° F.
Seed packet $3

Genus Ephedra
Ephedraceae. Bizarre primitive gymnosperms with nearly leafless photosynthetic jointed stems. Small flowers and fleshy berries. A link between flowering plants and conifers. Most species are native to arid regions across the Americas, Asia, southern Europe, and northern Africa. These interesting plants have been highly valued by many cultures for their medicinal and stimulant properties. Most species contain ephedrine alkaloids, powerful antihistamines and psychoactive CNS stimulants. Sow seed just below the surface of a sandy soil mix and keep warm to sprout. Easy to grow, they prefer full sun and are very drought tolerant.

Ephedra equisetina “Mu Zei Ma Huang”
Jointed stems to 3'+. Small red edible fruit. Native to the mountains of  Asia and Russia, up to about 10,000'. Used in Chinese medicine as a bronchodialator, antiviral, and diaphoretic. Contains some of the highest amounts of ephedrine alkaloids of the Asian Ephedra. Hardy to below –10° F.
Seed packet $3

Ephedra intermedia “Zhong Ma Huang”  “Tse”
Erect glaucous stems to 2''+. Red edible fruit. Native to Eurasia, from dry low elevation grasslands to mountains up to 14,000'. Used in Chinese medicine similar to E. sinica, but contains higher amounts of the antihistamine pseudoephedrine and the antiinflammatory ephedraxone. It also has traditional use as an aphrodisiac is considered a substitute for Haoma. Hardy to –10° F.
Seed packet $3

Ephedra nevadensis “Tu Tut” “Desert Jointfir ”
Seed packet $2.50

Ephedra sinica “Ma Huang”
Small shrub with stems to 1.5' tall. Red fleshy edible fruit. Native to dry, rocky mountain slopes of China and Mongolia, up to 5,000'. Also known as “Cao Ma Huang”, widely used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years to treat fever, nasal congestion and asthma. Contains significant amounts of ephedrine alkaloids. Because of misuse of purified ephedrine in diet and stimulant/aphrodisiac products, the FDA has severely restricted products containing ephedrine. This has unfortunately lead to scarcity of the whole herb, which, unlike using the isolated ephedrine, rarely gives rise to side-effects. Fortunately it is still acceptable to grow the plant and benefit from its medicinal properties from the safety of your garden. Hardy to below –10° F.
Seed packet $3

Ephedra viridis “Mormon Tea”
Stems 1'–3' tall. Yellow edible fruit. Native to the southwestern USA, up to 7,500'. Used by numerous tribes as a tea for kidney and blood cleansing, colds, headache, and an esteemed general tonic. Popular among Mormon settlers. Contains ephedrine alkaloids. The seeds were roasted and ground into a meal. Grow like other dryland species. Hardy to –20° F.
Euclea natalensis “Inkunzane”
An attractive tree to 40'. Small scented whitish flowers. Native to South Africa. The Zulu utilize the plant for a variety of medicines and for divination. Hard white wood with brown markings. Drought and cold hardy to 25° F.
5 seed $3

Grewia bicolor  “Ngogo”
Tiliaceae. Shrub to 7'+. Lanceolate leaves with serrated margins. Yellow flowers folllowed by edible berries. Native to southern Africa. The flexible straight branches were made into bows and arrows, and used in ceremonies to ward off earthquakes. The roots were used for swellings and chest conditons. Leaves are used by healers when exorcizing spirits. The fruits are made into an alcoholic brew and it is reported that when soaked in water for a few hours they produce an inebriating infusion. Drought tolerant. Hardy to at least 30° F.
5 seed $3

Grewia flava
Shrub to 12'. Elliptical serrated hairy leaves, bright yellow flowers. Small edible berries. Widespread throughout the dry central parts of southern Africa. One of the most important plants of the Kalahari people. The fruits are relished, eaten fresh, dried, or made into beer. Stems are used for bows and arrows, the bark for rope. The leaves and roots have a wide variety of medicinal applications. Prefers sun and well draining soil. Hardy to 15° F. 

Hoodia gordonii "Bobbejaanghap" "Bitterghap"
Alscepiadaceae. Leafless gray succulent stems up to several feet tall that branch from the base of the plant in candelabra like fashion. The stems are covered in conical tubercles tipped with stiff, sharp thorns. Large dish like purple-brown flowers bloom along the sides of the stem. The flowers have a stench like carrion to attract the plants' main pollinators- flies. This unusual milkweed, that superficially resembles a cactus, is native to arid regions of south west Africa. The bitter stems are eaten fresh as a food, as a unique appetite suppressant (scores of Hoodia "diet" products are now being marketed) and to treat ulcers and other stomach problems. The plant is said to have an interesting licorice like aftertaste which apparently gives tobacco smoke a pleasant flavor. Seed sprouts in 2-3 weeks. Needs a soil mix of at least 60% pumice and strong, bright light. Wild populations are now threatened due to overharvesting for the herbal market.                  

Ipomoea albivenea
Convolvulaceae. Attractive South African morning glory that develops a fat gray pachycaul trunk. Thick gray vines arise from the top of the trunk bearing felty silver green heart shaped leaves and 3"-4" white, night blooming flowers with pale pink or yellow throats. Native to Kwazulu-Natal and the old Transvaal provinces. Easy to sprout, just nick and soak the seed. Needs a large deep container for the thick tuberous roots and the soil mix should have excellent drainage. The vines can be trellised and tend to be perennial if kept above 50° F. The trunk is very cold sensitive and needs some protection.     
5 seed $2.50

Lycium fremontii "Desert Wolfberry" "Desert Goji"

Thorny shrub to 9'. Succulent leaves, small tubular, lavender colored flowers and reddish-orange berries. Highly valued by southwest Native Americans as an important food and medicine. Berries are delicious eaten fresh or dried and the leaves taste similar to spinach. The Desert Wolfberry will likely reveal many of the same highly nutritive and medicinal attributes as Lycium barbarum once investigated further. Seeds from southern Arizona. Frost and drought tolerant.  

Montia parvifolia
Portulacaceae. 1"-3" rosettes of small paddle-shaped succulent leaves. Straight flowering stems to 12" bearing 1/2" white-pink flowers. Small plantlets grow along the flowering stems and eventually drop off and root wherever they land. The plant turns red in bright light. Native to the Pacific Northwest, USA, where it often grows on rock faces. The edible leaves have an interesting taste and were once used as a relish. Quite showy, easy to grow, shade to part sun. Self propagates readily and is very drought tolerant and cold hardy to at least 10° F. Our plants are from seed originally collected on the north side of mossy rocks along the north fork of the Trinity River, Trinity Co. CA.    

Moringa drouhardii

Moringaceae. Large baobab-like tree with a swollen white trunk to 6' or more in diameter and up to 40' tall. Graceful tripinnate leaves and clusters of yellow flowers. Endemic to deciduous coastal forests of southern Madagascar. The pungent bark and wood is used medicinally for colds and flus. Grow like Adansonia.   

Nylandtia spinosa "Skilpadbessie"
Polygalaceae. Spiny shrub to 3' tall. Small oval leaves and pink to purple flowers. Very showy. Bears an abundance of round red edible berries. Said to be a favorite of wild tortoises and birds. A must for exotic fruit connoisseurs. Native to the coastal dunes of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The leaves and stems are made into tea to aid digestion, treat colds and as a generel tonic. Easy to grow, likes a soil with good drainage. Cold hardy to 10° F and below. Seeds can take several season to germinate, so be patient. Smoke treatment may help.

Oxalis sp. "Sourgrass"

Oxalidaceae. Enlarged twisted tuberous roots, succulent stems and clover like sparkling leaves to 1' tall. Pretty yellow flowers. An attractive South American species we've had in our collection for years. Shannon loves to eat the sour leaves and stems. Easy to grow, drought hardy and self sows readily. The roots can take some frost if mulched well.     

Rabiea albinota (=Nananthus albinotus) "S'Keng Keng"
Aizoaceae. Small clump forming succulent with white spotted sickle shaped leaves, thick fleshy roots and yellow flowers. Native to South Africa. The Griquas tribesmen were known to dry and pulverize the whole plant to use as an additive to make tobacco "stronger". Contemporary reports describe the effects to be similar to Sceletium. Growth period is early Spring to late Summer. Cold hardy if kept dry during Winter. 

Genus Rhodiola
Crassulaceae. Some 60+ species of fascinating caudex forming perennial succulents with leafy annual flowering stems. Native to the high mountains and near-polar arctic regions across the northern hemisphere. The roots and caudex of many species have a rose-like scent when cut. These plants have been venerated for their psychoactive medicinal properties for thousands of years, they are said to prolong life and enhance spiritual wisdom. Scientific research has focused almost exclusively on R. rosea, which has been shown to have cognitive enhancing, adaptogenic, antioxidant, and a host of other beneficial actions. Other species merit attention, but are extremely rare in cultivation due to their remote habitats. Sow the tiny seeds like cacti. They need a rich, well drained gritty soil, and a bright spot. They prefer regular watering while in active growth. Many species resent heat and can actually be killed if kept too warm. We find it easiest to grow them in pots and move them to cooler locations during the Summer heat. All species are extremely cold tolerant, some well below –30° F.

Rhodiola atropurpurea “Rose Root”
Thick caudex with stems to 12". Purple-red flowers. Native northern Russia/Siberia. Has magical psychostimulant and medicinal properties similar to R. rosea. Leaves  sometimes eaten as a vegetable. Seed from wild populations, Magadan, Russia. Hardy to –30° F. 
Rhodiola rosea "Rose Root"
Crassulaceae. Rosettes of semi-succulent leaves on 1'-2' stems. Yellow flower heads, and thick caudex that smells of roses when cut. This rare Sedum like plant is native to the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia. The roots have been revered for their cognitive enhancing and medicinal properties for at least 2,000 years. Gaining interest here in the west for its powerful psychostimulant, antioxidant and adaptogenic action. Clinical research is showing Rhodiola to be useful for nearly every ailment. Sprout like cacti. Likes bright light but cooler temperatures, hot spots in summer can kill the plants. Very cold hardy.     

Salvia apiana "White Sage"
Labiatae. Shrub up to 10' tall with white resinous leaves. Large flower stalks up to 4' long with white to pale-lavender colored flowers. The sacred sage of the arid mountains and deserts of southern California. Important medicinal to many native tribes, bundles of the aromatic leaves are burned as a physical and spiritual antiseptic. Loved by bees. An excellent companion plant to many of the columnar cacti. Seed germinates in 1-4 weeks. Drought and cold hardy to 20° F.    

Sceletium subvelutinum
Low growing succulent shrub with flattened and elongated gray-green leaves. Thick tuberous caudex forming roots and large flowers, yellow to pale orange in color. A rare and unusual species and likely some history of traditional use similar to the more widespread S. tortuosum.   

Sceletium tortuosum "Kougoed" "Kanna"
Small sprawling shrub with flat, pale green leaves. Shiny white flowers. The San and Khoi people of South Africa have a long history of using the plant as a hunger and thirst suppressant, analgesic, treatment for colic, and most importantly as a highly esteemed inebrient. The traditional manner of preparation is as follows: The whole plant is crushed between rocks, then placed in a bag and put in the sun to sweat. After a week of "fermenting" the "Kougoed" is removed from the bag and spread out to dry completely. Sceletium is known to contain potentially harmful amounts of oxalic acids which the preparation process is thought to reduce. The prepared dried material is chewed, smoked or occasionally taken as a tea or snuff. The effects are reported as quite pleasant and relaxing, decreasing anxiety, stress and tension. Apparently there is no impairment of motor functions; one South African farmer is quoted as expressing that the only way he can tell that his laborers are inebriated is "a sort of far away look in their eyes." No severe adverse effects have been reported, even from chronic use of the plant. In fact, indigenous healers are known to use "Kougoed" to successfully treat alcoholism. Recent pharmacological research has shown Sceletium to be highly complex chemically, with as many as 9 alkaloids that are found to fluctuate seasonally. Modern science is looking at the anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of Sceletium alkaloids as well as their potential anti-cancer activity. Sceletium is now being marketed as a highly effective and safe natural supplement to elevate and regulate mood. Plant gatherers have observed that wild populations of Sceletium tortuosum are becoming increasingly scarce, likely due to over collection. Protection through cultivation is encouraged. Tolerant of mild frost. 

Sceletium sp. nova
A new species similar to Sceletium tortuosum but with smaller lime green leaves, more sprawling habit and more vigorous growth. Small white-yellow flowers. Shown to have the same medicinal activity as S. tortuosum.    

Sceletium sp. SB 661

Silene undulata (=Silene capensis)
Caryophyllaceae. A low growing perennial with succulent roots and unusual white tubular flowers. Native to South Africa. The downy leaves are smoked as a tobacco and the Xhosa have made use of the plant to induce "dreaming." A nice addition to the rock garden or borders. Surface sow the seed. Easy to grow, drought tolerant. Cold hardy below 20° F.     

Triteleia laxa (=Brodiaea laxa) "Grass Nut" "Wally Basket"

Alliaceae or Liliaceae. Several narrow grass-like leaves up to 15" from small geophytic bulbs. Slender stems to 2'+ tall bearing wide loose umbels of 6-18+ lavender colored funnel form 1" flowers arise as the leaves wither in early Summer. Native to grasslands and open woodlands of California and southern Oregon. The flowers and bulbs are edible, the bulbs once being an important staple food of many native tribes who carefully tended wild populations of the plant. The bulbs offset with age and have a delicious sweet nutty flavor eaten raw or cooked. Our seed is originally from populations growing in western Sonoma Co., CA in what appears to be relic Pomo "gardens" that include high densities of other important root crops-Brodiaea, Dichelostemma, and Perideridea. Easy to grow in most soils, they prefer wet Winters and hot dry Summers. The seed needs 30-60 days cold treatment to sprout. Plants usually flower in 3-4 years from seed. An excellent addition to the garden, we've also found them to grow well in association with cacti. The plants are dormant late Summer through Winter and should take temperatures well below 15°  F.        

Tylosema fassoglense

Fabaceae. Forms a huge underground tuber, up to several feet. Trailing tendrilled vines with large rounded leaves and racemes of yellow pea flowers. Elongated pods with large brown seeds. Native to southern Africa where the tasty seeds and tuber are an important food source for bushmen. Has unexplored potential as a food crop for arid regions. Prefers a well draining sandy soil. Tolerant of some frost if well mulched.

Xerophyta retinervis "Isiphemba" "Bobbejaanstert"
Velloziaceae. Thick upright stems to 6' tall tipped with elongated strap shaped leaves. Long thin stalks of sweetly scented mauve or pale blue flowers. Plants are found growing on rock outcrops and cliffs in the grasslands of eastern South Africa. The roots are smoked to relieve asthma and smoke from the whole plant is used to stop nosebleeds. Stem bark preparations are reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Only a little is known of the plant's chemistry. Bioflavonoids have been reported from the genus, including amentoflavone also found in Ginkgo biloba extracts. Diterpenoids have been isolated from the closely related new world genus Vellozia. This peculiar plant, that somewhat resembles a miniature yucca or palm tree, is virtually unknown in cultivation. Sprout the seeds as you would for cacti. General succulent culture is needed. Survives annual wildfires in habitat and is very cold hardy to at least 10° F. 

   
Yucca baccata "Datil" "Amole"
Forms stemless rosettes of many stiff, spine tipped leaves up to 3' long and 2" wide. A flower stalk up to 5' tall arises from the center of the plant. Clusters of large creamy white flowers followed by fleshy, banana like fruits that grow to 5" long. Grows throughout the south west United States and northern Mexico. Has been utilized since prehistoric times by Native Americans. The leaves and leaf fiber were used for making baskets, ropes and a multitude of other weavings. Boiling the roots makes an excellent soap that is still popular today. The edible flowers and fruits were also an important food source. Easy from seed, plant 0.5" deep. Cold hardy.    

Yucca brevifolia "Joshua Tree"
Forms an unusual and beautiful tree up to 30' tall. Corky gray bark and curved branches ending in rosettes of sharp narrow 14" long leaves. The numerous fleshy greenish white flowers are borne on foot long panicles that arise from the center of the rosettes, followed by egg shaped green fruits. Native to the Mojave desert of southern California, Arizona and Utah. A slow growing plant that is known to live for several hundred years. The name Joshua tree comes from Mormon pioneers who associated its grotesque shape with the biblical Joshua raising his arms in prayer. The flowers and seeds were once an important food of the indians living in the Mojave and fiber from the roots was used in basket making. Regular succulent care. Frost tolerant if kept dry.

Other Plants of Interest...

Asclepias curassavica
Asclepiadaceae. Herbaceous perennial to 3'. Lanceolate leaves and clusters of striking red and orange flowers attract butterflies. Native to Central and South America. A relaxing diaphoretic, said to be preferable to Asclepias tuberosa. Prefers sun and moisture. Hardy to 15° F and grows back from the roots each Spring. Seed may need 30 days cold treatment.
Buddleja globosa "Orange Ball Butterfly Tree" "Matico"
Buddlejaceae. Semi evergreen shrub to 10'+ tall. Green leaves with downy white undersides. Spherical clusters of orange yellow fragrant flowers. A rare and gorgeous form of butterfly bush endemic to Chile and Argentina. The the flavonoid rich leaves are traditionally used for healing wounds and the stem bark contains novel terpenes with antifungal activity. Should be hardy to below 20° F. Surface sow seeds.     

Codonopsis sp. BBG China “Tang Shen”
Campanulaceae. Carrot like perennial root from which graceful twining deciduous vines arise. Soft leaves and 1" yellow green bell shaped flowers. We got our mother plant from the UC Berkeley Gardens years ago but lost the original tag with info on where in China the plant is from. Overall the plant is larger than the more common C. pilosula. The root is sweet and edible, several Codonopsis species are used as general tonics similar to ginseng in Chinese medicine. Needs a well draining moist soil and something to climb on. Self seeds. The root should be plenty cold tolerant if mulched. Surface sow seed.
Seed packet $3

Crataegus pinnatifida “Shan Zha” “Chinese Haw”
Rosaceae. Small deciduous tree to 15'+. Abundant white flowers followed by 1"–1.5" red hawthorn fruit. The leaves turn a brilliant crimson in Autumn.  The fruits of this Asian species are eaten fresh, dried, as a tea and made into candies. Widely used in Oriental medicine. Full sun. Hardy to –10° F. Give seed 30–90 days cold.                         10 seed $2.50

Delphinium cardinale “Cardinal Larkspur”
Ranunculaceae. Ornamental perennial 3'–6' tall, with divided leaves and large clusters of scarlet flowers with long spurs. A gorgeous plant native to central and southern California. Prefers full sun and rich soil. Hardy well below 20° F. 30–60 days cold may aid germination.
Seed packet $2.50

Gentiana affinis v. ovata “Gentian”
Gentianaceae. Small perennial caudex from which 4"–12" stems grow. Small ovate leaves and intensely dark blue bell shaped flowers, often with flecking of lighter blue. This rare gentian is native to open meadows and hillsides from northern California to Washington. This seed is originally from populations growing in the hills near the coast in western Sonoma County, CA. Gentian are used the wold over as bitter digestive tonics. This plant is a real gem and easily grown once established. Give seed 60– 90 days cold and surface sow.
Hippophae rhamnoides “Sea Buckthorn”
Elaeagnaceae. A striking Willow-leafed shrub 10'–20'. In Autumn the branches are covered in small edible orange berries. Native to Central Asia. This fruit is very nutritious, rich in vitamin C, A and E as well as EFA’s and the leaves are a source of antioxidant flavonoids. This plant is now an important medicinal fruit crop in western Europe, Asia and Russia, but is only now gaining popularity in the United States as a nutriceutical and cosmetics ingredient. A highly versatile plant, fixes nitrogen in the soil and is cold hardy to –40° F. Seed germinates best with 30+ days cold treatment.
Seed packet $3

Ilex vomitoria "Yaupon"
Aquifoliaceae. Evergreen shrub or small tree to 20'+. Divaricate stems, whitish flowers and ornamental red-orange berries. Native to the south-eastern United States. Another underappreciated stimulating holly. Related to yerba mate and guayusa, the leaves are a rich source of caffeine and other xanthine alkaloids. It was once a primary sacred plant of the Cherokee, Creek, Seminole and other tribes. Easy to grow, cold hardy, tolerant of alkaline and salty soils, sun to partial shade. Seed is slow to germinate, sow in Fall or 30-60+ days cold treatment. May take 1-2 years to sprout, so be patient.      

Lycium barbarum "Wolfberry""Gou Qi Zi" "Goji Berry"
Solanaceae. A deciduous shrub with arching branches, usually 3'-5' tall and up to 10' long. Small linear leaves, pale purple flowers followed by scarlet berries. Native to the foothills of the Himalayas in central Asia. The berries are one of the most nutritious foods known to man (the highest carotenoid content of any known edible!). A traditional Chinese longevity enhancer and sexual tonic. Easy to grow, drought tolerant and cold hardy.      

Nicotiana paniculata 'Moray' "Tobacco" "Qhamasayri"
Solanaceae. An unusual annual tobacco species we collected in 2000 at the amazing Incan agricultural center Moray, at 12,000'. Medium size leaves and stems to 3'. Variegated flowers-green, yellow and white. A rare and wonderful plant. Surface sow seeds.    

Nicotiana rustica 'Kessu' "Tobacco"

Small tobacco to 2'-3' with round leaves and yellow green tubular flowers. N. rustica is the most potent tobacco, having the highest nicotine content, making an excellent insecticide and shamanic smoke. This specific strain, Kessu, is the most northernly strain ever recorded, growing in central Finland just 400 miles from the Arctic Circle! Surface sow seeds.    
Seed packet $4

Phlomis tuberosa
Labiatae. Deciduous downy leafed shrub, 3–6'. Whorls of violet flowers with white bearded throats. Unusual tuberous roots. Found in eastern Europe through Asia. The roots are edible, cooked by the Kalmyks in Russia. The flowers are rich in sweet nectar and attract children and hummingbirds. A spectacular garden plant, needs a bright spot with well draining soil. Drought tolerant once established. Hardy to at least –10° F.
Seed packet $3 (limited)

Taxus Baccata  "Sacred Yew"
Taxaceae. A slow growing evergreen tree to 50' + tall. Dark green needles and fleshy red berries. A European species, sacred to pagans and christians alike. In Wales there is a specimen that has a circumference of nearly 50 feet and estimated to be 4000 years old! A tree to plant for future generations. Easily trimmed as a hedge or bonsaid. Source of the anticancer drug, Taxol. All parts of the plant are considered poisonous, except for the fruit which are quite tasty! The aromatic wood is burned as an incense and a tea made from the leaves is insecticidal. Sun to shade tolerant, prefers a moist well drained soil. Our plants are from Hungarian seed. Hardy to -20° F.    

Toona sinensis
Meliaceae. An attractive deciduous tree to 50'. Peeling bark and large compound leaves 1'-2' long! Pendulous clusters of deliciously fragrant white flowers, a magnet for bees. Native to China where it is cultivated for the nutritious young leaves and shoots which are a favorite vegetable with an onion like taste when cooked. Research suggests that the leaves have potent anticancer properties. The bark is used in Chinese medicine and the mahogany like hard wood is burned as an incense. A fast growing versatile tree. Prefers sun and is cold hardy to 10° F and below. Soak the seed for 24 hours before sowing.      

 

A CACTUS ODYSSEY: Journeys in the Wilds of Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina
by James Mauseth, Roberto Kiesling and Carlos Ostolaza
This book presents the lively stories of three avid field biologists who over the course of fifteen years frequently traveled together in search of cacti in Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina. Documents their field work studying, collecting, and researching those countries' intriguing cacti. They cover the natural history, ecology, and a little ethnobotany of many plants offered in our Sacred Succulents catalog. Includes nearly 200 color photographs. Recommended!

INVASION BIOLOGY: Critique of a Psuedoscience by David Theodoropoulos
The author has worked in the field of conservation biology for over 30 years and with extensive research brings to light the controversial yet compelling deduction that the invasive species "crisis" lacks scientific merit. With a fascinating overview of evolutionary biology, invasion is shown to be a completely natural phenomenon, essential to evolution. Through personal field work and a highly thorough, non-biased examination of the work of invasion biologists, the author demonstrates how scientific facts do not support the widespread belief that invasive species are damaging ecosystems. What the data does show is that they often increase biodiversity, may prevent extinctions, and aid in restoring disturbed and polluted environments. With a wealth of evidence, the whole concept of invasives appears to be a major scientific blunder based on misperceived notions arising from our loss of intimacy with the natural world. Most importantly, the author points to how the the natural dynamics behind invasion can be harnassed to aid species conservation. Even if you don't agree with all the author's analyses, the facts must be considered. Essential reading!! For more info see- www.dtheo.org     

Copal Oro
Dried pieces of sap wildcrafted from Bursera microphylla (Burseraceae) trees in Baja, Mexico. This "food of the gods" can be burned as a delightfully sweet, purifying incense. Powdered and dissolved in alcohol or vegetal oils for its antiseptic properties.  

         
Frankincense
Dried tears of sap from the bizarre Boswellia carteri (Burseraceae) trees of  Somalia. An ancient incense widely revered since the dawn of civilization, often in combination with myrrh. At one time worth more than its weight in gold! It has a powerfully rich fragrance that produces a calm meditative state, heightening mental perception. It has very strong anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties.   

Myrrh
Dried pieces of sap from Commiphora molmol (Burseraceae) trees of northeast Africa. Utilized for thousands of years as a precious medicine, sacred incense, perfume and ointment. A powerful antifungal, antibacterial and broad spectrum antiseptic for treating wounds. Powdered or dissolved in alcohol it can be made into a mouth wash. Taken internally as an expectorant, it can help treat colds, boost the immune system, aid digestion, and may even reduce cholesterol. Produces a heavenly aroma when burned, said to revitalize the spirit.

Natural Products Shipping & Handling
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