Across South Africa a growing and often hidden threat is quietly stripping our landscapes of unique and irreplaceable plants. Driven by demand for rare succulents and locally sought-after ornamental species, the illegal harvesting of protected plants (often referred to as plant poaching) is pushing some species toward extinction and undermining efforts to conserve our natural heritage.
The Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region (K2C) continues to work closely with communities living adjacent to protected areas to conserve natural resources and promote sustainable livelihoods. Through various initiatives, including the Human-Wildlife Conflict and Illegal Wildlife Trade project, K2C supports communities in finding long-term solutions that balance environmental protection, socio-economic development and tourism potential.
In Finale Village, community members have shown commendable dedication to reducing illegal activities and promoting sustainable practices. However, recent incidents have raised concern about the continued illegal harvesting and trade of protected plant species, particularly the Impala and Kudu lilies.
Earlier this year, rangers from a neighbouring reserve arrested eight individuals from Acornhoek who were found poaching Impala lilies, allegedly for sale in Hoedspruit. In another case, the local Community Policing Forum intercepted a truck reportedly sent by a buyer from Hoedspruit to collect these plants from the rangelands of Finale. Most recently, authorities detained a vehicle transporting a large quantity of Kudu and Impala lilies, again destined for Hoedspruit. Sellers claimed they were supplying regular buyers in the area.
These incidents highlight a concerning trend of supplying the local demand, by harvesting indigenous plants from the natural bush in the area.
Rare lilies under threat
The summer Impala lily (Adenium swazicum) is listed as critically endangered in South Africa. Its decline is driven by habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, particularly sugar cane plantations, and illegal harvesting for medicinal and horticultural purposes.
The related Impala lily (Adenium multiflorum), while not listed as threatened in South Africa, is considered threatened in neighbouring countries such as Eswatini, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This species occurs from the Kruger National Park and Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the north, extending into Komatipoort and Eswatini along the Lebombo Mountains and into south-western Mozambique. Experts estimate that populations have declined by at least 20% since 1990, largely due to habitat loss and over-collection.
These species are an important part of the Lowveld’s natural beauty and ecological balance. Their loss threatens biodiversity and undermines the tourism and conservation value of the region. Protecting them helps preserve the intricate web of life that supports both ecosystems and communities.
Why some plants are protected
To understand why these local cases are so concerning, it is important to know that certain plants are legally listed as Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) under South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA). These listings exist because many indigenous plants are slow growing, have small populations, or occur in highly localised habitats, meaning that even limited removal can cause lasting damage.
The TOPS regulations make it illegal to pick, collect, transport, sell or buy protected plant species without the required permits. Penalties on conviction can be severe, including large fines and imprisonment. Understanding these laws helps ensure that well-meaning buyers and sellers do not inadvertently contribute to biodiversity loss.
Community commitment to conservation
It is vital for community members to understand that harvesting, transporting, selling or purchasing protected plants without valid permits is a serious criminal offence under environmental law. While the Finale community, together with conservation partners, remains committed to protecting its natural heritage and ensuring that future generations can benefit from the area’s rich biodiversity, they are only one link in the chain. It is equally important for communities further along the supply chain, including those purchasing or trading these plants, to be aware of the impacts and actively engage in preventing illegal harvesting.
How you can help
Everyone has a role to play in curbing the illegal plant trade. The first and simplest step is to only buy from reputable, registered nurseries – and to insist on proper documentation. Legitimate growers and retailers will always be transparent about the origin of their plants. Never purchase wild-collected specimens, and if you notice suspicious activity – such as large quantities of wild plants for sale, a vehicle transporting unusual loads, or a nursery unwilling to provide paperwork – report it. Supporting legal, certified alternatives helps protect South Africa’s natural heritage, and spreading the word is just as important.
Share this information with fellow gardeners, friends and local groups so that more people understand the issue and choose to buy responsibly. Reducing demand for illegally harvested plants begins with awareness.
And, as communities like Finale have shown through awareness, responsible choices and collective action, we can ensure that conservation and community development go hand in hand, protecting both our natural heritage and the livelihoods that depend on it. Through buying responsibly and speaking up, every one of us can help safeguard our country’s unique flora for generations to come.
Vusi Tshabalala is the Kruger to canyons Biosphere’s Community Engagement and Learning Programme Manager, and Lauren Booth is the Kruger to canyons Biosphere’s Communications Implementation Officer.
