Lemon Bottlebrush

(Crimson bottlebrush) Showy shrub or small tree from Australia with very potent antibacterial properties. Compounds extracted from the leaves are at least as effective as the antibiotics ampicillin, gentamycin and tetracycline. With antibiotic resistance on a sharp rise worldwide finding new antibiotics that work in new ways is an urgent priority. The plant also has potent herbicidal properties, and new herbicides now on the market were inspired by compounds found in it. The leaves are wonderfully lemony and can be brewed into a delicious refreshing tea.