Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Bergaartappel, Norretjie, Mountain potato, !norra

Family: Geraniaceae (Geranium)

Distribution: Eastern, Northern, Western Cape

Habitat: Stony flats and slopes

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

National red list: Least Concern

Life form: Geophyte (bulb, corm or tuber - seasonally dormant)

Comments: The flowers are most peculiar and fascinating. They resemble miniature pea-flowers in having the upper two petals bent back and the three lower ones held close together, entirely enclosing the anthers. This is a useful plant which can be used for medicinal and other purposes. The tubers are edible and was used as a food source by the Khoi and early settlers, who roasted it in hot ashes. The roots or the whole plant has also been used to treat diarrhea, sore throat and eczema, among others. The dried leaves can be used to make a tea.