What makes the blackjack plant, known as ucucuza, unforgettable is its ability to easily catch onto socks or clothes if you brush past it. However, while some still consider it an annoying weed, others value it as a food source and a beneficial medicinal plant.
Ashley Anton from the Eastern Cape recalls how the blackjack plant has helped him when he was younger.
“Growing up, I was a sick person. My legs were riddled with blisters like wounds, so the blackjack plant helped me with that,” he recalls.
“The leaves were squashed and squished on wounds, and then applied to the affected area.”
Ashley Anton
While Anton has not used the blackjack plant recently due to good health, he is willing to consider including it as a vegetable in his diet again.
Using ucucuza since the pandemic, Yolanda Ngeju from Johannesburg says she takes advantage of its natural growth around her house, brewing tea with fresh leaves from it.
‘Weeds’ with health benefits
“Bronchitis is something I’ve had for years, and my daughter was starting to have chest problems, especially when she got the flu or ran a lot. The blackjack plant has cured our issues. In fact, it has assisted me in more ways than that,” Ngeju explains.
“Blackjack naturally grows at my house; therefore, I make the tea with fresh leaves. God has literally put everything we need on earth. What they call ‘weeds’ are truly beneficial. Plants have not only helped me but my family too.”
According to Johannesburg-based agronomist Muofhe Eullenda, various indigenous cultures have used blackjack for centuries in their traditional medicinal practices for its wide range of health benefits.
“The blackjack plant is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and is used to treat wounds, cuts, and infections,” says Eullenda.
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Used for more than medicine
“Infusions or teas made from the leaves are used to treat digestive issues such as stomachaches, ulcers, and diarrhoea. Some cultures also use it to boost the immune system and treat colds and flu.”
Eullenda notes that the young leaves and shoots of the blackjack plant are edible, often used in salads, soups, and stews, and are rich in vitamins and minerals.
“The plant is sometimes used as green manure to improve soil fertility. It helps fix nitrogen in the soil and add organic matter. Due to its rapid growth and extensive root system, blackjack can be used to stabilise soil and prevent erosion.”
Agronomist Muofhe Eullenda
“The flowers of the plant also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which is beneficial for maintaining biodiversity.”
While its unique appearance attracts pollinators and plays a key role in the ecosystem, horticulturist Mmapaseka Ledwaba from Centurion highlights that the blackjack’s appearance makes it unique (it plays a huge ecological role in attracting pollinators), but it is often overlooked.
She notes, “There is limited awareness and understanding of what the blackjack plant can be used for. Plus, it’s typically seen as a weed (invasive) that most people eradicate.”
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Leaves that heal
“It is normally used as an anti-inflammatory to treat asthma and other inflammatory diseases. The leaves are also commonly used to treat wounds, cuts, and sores. In some African regions, it’s used to treat malaria.”
According to her, some people might experience allergic reactions to the plant, especially those who are struggling with plant allergies, and some might also have skin irritations.
“There’s limited research on the safety of using the plant for medicinal purposes. Pregnant women or people with chronic conditions should be wary of using the plant unless advised by a healthcare professional.”
Ledwaba adds that the blackjack is an annual plant and doesn’t have a particular peak time.
“The blackjack plant grows within a single growing season. The plant thrives in warm, sunny climates in an environment that has well-drained soil.”
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