Nindi

This genus includes 35 species of annuals, perennials, and small shrubs, native to tropical and warm parts of Africa, most of which have thick, aromatic leaves and an explosive pollination mechanism. Several species have rose-scented flowers and lemon-scented leaves. These are generally known as nindi, and include A. gamwelliae, A. heliotropioides, A. lamborayi, A. myrianthus, and A. pubescens. Oil of nindi is used in soaps and perfumes; it is produced mainly in E Africa and in Assam.

Subshrub, with branched, downy stems, and ovate-lanceolate, gland-dotted leaves to 9cm (3½in) long, with wavy margins and downy undersurfaces. Strongly scented mauve flowers, 2cm (¾in) long, with woolly calyces appear in much-branched inflorescences.

Common Name:	Nindi
Other Names:	Ninde
Botanical Name:	Aeollanthus gamwelliae
Genus:	Aeolanthus
Family:	Lamiaceae
Native Location:	E African mountains
Cultivation:	Well-drained to dry, sandy soil in sun.
Propagation:	By seed sown in sandy soil mix in spring
Harvest:	Whole plant, or leaves and flowers separately, are distilled for oil.
Height:	1.5m (5ft)
Width:	1m (3ft)
Hardiness:	Min. 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Parts Used:	Whole palan, leaves, flowers, oil.
Properties:	An aromatic herb, rich in essential oils, including geraniol (as in Pelargonium 'Graveolens', see rose geranium).
Culinary Uses:	Leaves are used to flavor soups and salads.
Economic Uses:	Oil from leaves and flowers is used in soaps and perfumes, often as a substitute for palmarosa oil (from Cymbopogon martinii, see palmarosa).
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limites. Pg 104