One of our lovely (and useful) native plants

The Cat`s Whiskers (Orthosiphon aristatus) are flowering at the moment. Apart from having beautiful flowers, these plants are also considered a medicinal herb and a fabulous bee and butterfly attractor.

Orthosiphon aristatus, AKA Cats Whiskers

The They are endemic to tropical North Queensland and are also found in China, the Indian Subcontinent and South East Asia.

Orthosiphon aristatus, AKA Cat`s Whiskers

In South East Asia the leaves are used to make Java Tea which is said to help clear kidney stones, reduce blood pressure and diabetes. It is also said to have anti inflammatory and anti bacterial properties.