Moretlwa: A natural resource to be treasured by all

According to Van Wyk B., Van Wyk P., Van Wyk B., (2008), it is a multi-stemmed shrub or a small tree up to 4metres tall usually with leafy branches from ground level.The plant has grey to greyish-green leaves, yellow flowers and reddish brown fruits when ripe. It occurs in bushveld and wooded grassland, often in dry areas and on sandy soils. The heavier the soil, the more shrub-like the brandybushes (Venter and Venter, 1996).

In Botswana, its occurrence covers almost all districts of the country except the far North (Setshogo & Venter, 2003). This plant has contributed immensely to Tswana traditional lives. All parts of the plant were and are still very useful to Batswana, demonstrating their rich indigenous knowledge that formed their most valuable cultural believes. According to Venter & Venter (1996), the ripe fruits are eaten by domestic stock, game and birds. In semi-arid areas like the Kgalagadi and Ghanzi Districts, it is considered an important fodder plant when other food is scarce, with preference given to young leaves over mature ones.