Volume 10 • April 2014

CREW –National Overview

Domitilla Raimondo & CREW co-ordination team REW, the Custodians of C Rare and Endangered 013 was an exciting year for for conservation in our coun- Wildflowers, is a programme 2the Custodians of Rare and try that aligns with 16 outcome- that involves volunteers from Endangered Wildflowers (CREW) oriented targets of the Global Strat- the public in the monitoring Programme, as you will read egy for Plant Conservation (GSPC) and conservation of South in the pages that follow. The of the Convention on Biological ’s threatened . programme has expanded both Diversity (see www.Plants2020. CREW aims to capacitate a into new parts of the country net). The majority of ’s network of volunteers from and also focused on develop- active botanists and conservation- a range of socio-economic ing a host of young plant con- ists gathered at this workshop spe- backgrounds to monitor servationists—an opportunity cifically to discuss the GSPC and and conserve South Africa’s that has been made available its implementation nationally. The threatened plant . through the Groen Sebenza Pro- workshop included stakeholders The programme links vol- gramme, a jobs fund initiative of from national and provincial con- unteers with their local the Department of Environmen- servation authorities, taxonomists, conservation agencies and NGOs (e.g. the Botanical Society tal Affairs. particularly with local land of South Africa), independent bota- stewardship initiatives to en- CREW has been operating for over nists, conservationists working on sure the conservation of key 10 years and our volunteers have business and biodiversity initia- sites for threatened plant built up significant knowledge of lo- tives, and conservation planners. species. cal plants that they are now able to The workshop resulted in national help us transfer to this new cohort level targets being developed for all of budding plant conservationists. 16 targets. In addition, milestones were identified for measuring pro- 2013 also saw the CREW co-or- gress with implementation, and dination team leading the process commitment from various organisa- to develop a National Strategy for tions and individuals to lead on the Plant Conservation with support different targets, were made. The from the Botanical Society of South CREW Programme plays a vital Africa (BotSoc) and the South Af- part in ensuring that South Africa rican National Biodiversity Institute achieves the following three tar- (SANBI). This process involved gets related to the conservation of developing priority actions required threatened plants:

1 • Target 2, a conservation as- effort with the majority of CREW members has been challenging sessment of all known plants. groups contributing accounts of but full of rewards, and Vatiswa re- • Target 5, the conservation of threatened species and we would counts the road travelled so far on important plant areas. like to thank all of you who put so page 6 . Also in the Eastern Cape, much time into producing this book. in the plant • Target 7, in situ conservation of A limited run of 500 copies were of Pondoland, another four para- threatened plant species. printed by BotSoc and are available ecologists are working and being South Africa’s national strategy will at SANBI’s Kirstenbosch and Pre- trained to collect herbarium speci- be published in 2014. toria bookshops. The book is also mens and monitor medicinal plant available in electronic format as an use by CREW volunteers based in After a decade of hard work, e-book. Port Edward. Spreading the knowl- CREW celebrated the success of edge of Pondoland’s unique flora the work of volunteers monitoring The CREW Programme did some and focusing efforts in the Eastern and conserving plants, by publish- major expanding during 2013. Up Cape section of this centre of en- ing the book Plants in Peril—100 north, the Limpopo CREW group demism is a very appropriate way of South Africa’s highly threatened got going, working hard to survey to continue the botanical legacy of plant species and the people threatened Euphorbia species Tony Abbott, one of South Africa’s protecting them. Written by the around Polokwane, and survey- finest botanical amateurs who network of volunteers involved in ing the Blouberg and Wolkberg passed away in 2013 and will be CREW, as well as several profes- mountains that are full of endemics. sorely missed by all involved with sional botanists and horticulturists, Limpopo Province has the poor- the CREW Programme. Our para- this publication profiles the excel- est biodiversity information of all of ecologist project is funded by the lent work being done to conserve South Africa’s provinces. It is very Groen Sebenza Programme, and South Africa’s most threatened under-surveyed and we have few will continue for another two years. plants. The book has four sec- records of threatened plant spe- We hope that in this time valuable tions, the first includes case stud- cies. Read more about this new specimens will be gathered from ies of highly threatened species, and essential work on page 14. this under-collected part of the the second is a section focusing CREW has now taken the bold step country and that the para-ecolo- on species threatened by use, and of moving our work into deep rural gists build skills that will allow them the third section looks at hotspots areas of the Eastern Cape. We to find employment in the biodiver- of plant diversity where our CREW have set up a base at the Selmar sity conservation sector after the volunteers are based that are under Schonland Herbarium in Gra- programme. threat. In the last section the book hamstown and under the capable features various CREW groups and leadership of Vatiswa Zikishe, six CREW is becoming famous all also focuses on how the network of para-ecologists (young community over the world; other mega-diverse people required to conserve these members who monitor plants) have countries, including Brazil and Co- species is being grown. Produc- been employed. Taking on capacity lumbia, are interested in repeating ing this book was a collaborative development of young community our model. The IUCN Species Sur-

The cover of Plants in Peril. vival Commission is also very inter- SANBI and BotSoc. As part of cele- strength to strength. With the now ested and we are repeatedly asked brating their centenary, BotSoc has long-term involvement of many vol- to write up case studies of our pro- developed a conservation strategy unteers in certain parts of the coun- gramme for international audienc- which requires involvement of their try, a deep knowledge of where es. During 2014, the CREW co-or- members in the CREW Programme special plants occur has been de- dination team will focus on produc- as the fundamental core of their veloped and maintained, allowing ing a lessons learnt scientific paper conservation work, see Catherine a very valuable contribution to con- so we can share the successes of Browne’s article on page 38. the CREW model with biodiversity servation to be made. We would conservationists around the world. In this newsletter you will read that like to thank all our CREW volun- Fundamental to the success of in its tenth year of operating, the teers for your ongoing dedication to CREW is the partnership between CREW Programme has gone from the conservation of our flora.

News from the CREW node

Ismail Ebrahim

nother amazing year of was a very successful event, show- gensis (Vulnerable), which was ACREW work passes by and casing the magnificence of the on display at the expo. I was very it still feels like the first day of Cape floral diversity. The expo was excited to see this species for the starting the CREW Programme. attended by a range of stakehold- first time. Gladiolus overbergensis We have so much to do and the ers, including cut flower producers, usually only appears after fire. The excitement and commitment with various displays of indigenous area we found them in was cleared from the volunteers have just in- plant products, conservation pro- for a new protea orchard and the creased over time. As we reflect jects and a huge labelled specimen plants were coming up between on ten years of CREW’s exist- exhibit. The event also gave our the newly planted seedlings. The ence, we can feel proud of our new Groen Sebenza intern an op- farmer confirmed that a few years achievements. We have made a portunity to see what the CREW ago there were many plants in the huge impact on the conserva- Programme is all about and meet natural veld just above the orchard tion community and won some some of the volunteers involved in and fortunately he doesn’t have any great battles for the protection the project. development plans for that area. of our rich and diverse flora. We also found a small population One of the highlights was the cen- After the event we went off to find of Aristea teretifolia (Endangered) tenary celebration of Kirstenbosch a population of Gladiolus overber- which was a nice surprise. National Botanical Garden and the Botanical Society of South Africa in 2013. There were many spectacu- lar events to celebrate this momen- tous milestone. The first was the Kirstenbosch Science Showcase, which saw SANBI pull out all the stops to put on a magnificent dis- play of past and present research programmes. We organised an iSpot Bioblitz in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden as part of the celebration. Our Bioblitz events have been a great way of exposing this wonderful tool and getting new people to join the iSpot family.

In August we were invited to re- peat our display at the Cape Floral Kingdom Expo in Bredasdorp. This Volunteers at the Bioblitz held at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. 3 Our C-team focus for 2013 was gramme. Our interns are Anri targeting some of the recently burnt Marais, Dewidine van der Colff, areas in the Cederberg and sup- Karin Herman and Marius Lombard porting the new CREW groups. Our (see their profiles for more informa- first mission to the Cederberg was tion). Our focus was on training to find Sparaxis roxburghii. This and capacitating interns to identify species is Red Listed as Critically plants, monitor rare and threatened Endangered and is currently known plants, engage communities and from one locality. Our search for conduct environmental educa- this species has not been success- tion activities. This took up a lot ful so we were very keen to verify of our time but it is very rewarding the existence of the population. Un- to share this knowledge with our fortunately, we searched for hours interns and they have been fan- but could not find the population. tastic in taking up the challenge Applications for agricultural expan- of becoming involved in conserv- sion in the area have been submit- ing threatened plants. We had ted, so we will be keeping a close numerous training courses, not eye on the area and this year we only for our interns, but also includ- will return to find this species. The ing Groen Sebenza interns from highlight of the trip was seeing the other areas. This has made a real The rare Pakhuis Pass endemic, most stunning Romulea viridibrac- impact and helped build partner- Romulea viridibracteata. teata (Rare), which is only known ships between CREW and other from Pakhuis Pass. conservation bodies. In addition, many interns joined us in the field We had very strange weather last to see new populations of Moraea for more practical training and field year. Many of the planned field vuvuzela (Endangered) and Spa- work experience. Building capacity trips were cancelled and when we raxis maculosa (Critically Endan- is hard work, but seeing the growth did manage to get out in the field, gered) found by Anso Le Roux from of an individual is very rewarding. It most of the days turned cold, wet Worcester. is incredibly inspiring and I wish all and miserable. Nevertheless, we our interns the best for the future. kept our spirits up and enjoyed the We were fortunate to get addi- They must keep up the great work veld despite the inclement weather. tional capacity in the team through as they continue on their journeys One of the most exciting trips was the SANBI Groen Sebenza Pro- of discovery and growth.

News from the CREW KwaZulu-Natal node

Suvarna Parbhoo

013 has been a busy yet find two new sites of Hyobanche footpath of this derelict reserve. A 2successful field season with fulleri (Critically Endangered) on collaborative trip to Utrecht with several exciting finds—over 70 the KwaZulu-Natal south coast the KwaZulu-Natal Herbarium and field trips took place and 105 dune vegetation. Khumbu’s insights Millenium Seedbank Programme sites were surveyed, with 77 with communities gave us an ad- colleagues in search of Polygala threatened plants recorded. vantage when visiting these areas. praticola (Data Deficient) yielded carpets of our target species. It is The KwaZulu-Natal Node is for- The CREW All Over group con- unbelievable to think that this en tunate in that we have a team of ducted eight field trips during the masse is Data Defi- three this field-season. National past season. The first field trip for cient—hopefully the has an Research Foundation (NRF) intern, the year was definitely an excel- interested specialist working on a Khumbu Zulu and Groen Sebenza lent start to the 2013 season. We revision. intern, Hlengiwe Mtshali have both visited a tiny reserve at Durban done exceptionally well in assisting harbour, the busiest port in South Volunteers from Dundee have with planning, meeting and fieldtrip Africa, in search of the orchid Zuex- joined the CREW network this year. preparations. Hlengiwe’s sharp ine africana (Critically Endangered) Although the enthusiastic group 4 eyes in the field have allowed us to and found several plants along the of five’s ‘playfield’ is a vast area of CREW A Team volunteer, Chris Wahl- Polygala praticola (Data Deficient). berg photographing Zeuxine africana. transformed lands, they conducted two field trips in search of orchids. Both trips yielded null-records of the target species but these deter- mined CREWites pushed on and will continue with their searches over the next few years. We are glad to report that the CREW Umvoti group has been resur- rected for this season, after group champion Sue Swan’s ill health the past few seasons kept her out of the field. We are fortunate in that Lynda Drögemöller has taken over championing this group. The group planned five fieldtrips—their Marinda Koekemoer presenting her identification course. successes were varied, from fail- ing to relocate woodii (Vulnerable), to finding an incred- ible ancient population of the sify soil types and rock substrates introduce non-scientists to the larg- natalensis (Near and he has agreed to join us at the est plant families in southern Africa Threatened). next workshop to share more in- in an attractive, easily understood formation on this fascinating topic. manner. Our annual summer-rainfall work- Seloba Chuene and Alvin Mapatha, shop, held at Eshowe, was once two students from the University of The CREW KwaZulu-Natal Univer- again well attended with a good mix Limpopo, have written about their sities project involving a Red List of CREW volunteers and students experience at the workshop (see lecture and field trip to a site with from the University of KwaZulu-Na- their contributions on page 40). threatened species continued its tal’s Westville campus, University success into its fourth year. Theo of Zululand and University of Lim- We held two identification courses Mostert, lecturer at the University popo. The BotSoc KwaZulu-Natal this year: the genus Kniphofia pre- of Zululand, recounts their practical inland branch had organised an en- sented by Syd Ramdhani, and iden- field experience on page 37. Uni- tertaining quiz on Saturday evening tifying plant families with a particu- versity of KwaZulu-Natal’s Pie- and we hope to establish this as a lar focus on Asteraceae presented termaritzburg campus students tradition for workshops in years to by Marinda Koekemoer. We were conducted their survey at Doreen come. For the first time, we had a introduced to the newly published Clark Nature Reserve. Data col- geologist, Prof Mike Watkeys, giv- Guide to plant families of southern lected for both field trips is useful ing us some insight on how to clas- Africa. The book is designed to to the KwaZulu-Natal provincial 5 conservation agency, Ezemvelo versity of Technology alumni are ence of managing a project, and in KZN Wildlife. We were delighted now working at SANBI— including particular one of this nature. Fur- when the Mangosuthu University our intern, Khumbu Zulu. thermore, Groen Sebenza itself is a of Technology’s Nature Conserva- pilot project. The initial phase of the We would like to congratulate the tion department, located at Umlazi, project was quite rough. I hadn’t re- CREW KwaZulu-Natal network for ceived some of the para-ecologists’ Durban, invited CREW to sit on the outstanding number of threat- their advisory board. This gives us contracts, they were panicking and ened plant records submitted over about to give up on the project, and the opportunity to ensure plant con- the past year. We would also like to I had to motivate them while per- servation is given priority. Further- thank the various plant specialists suading Groen Sebenza officials more, this partnership is important for their ongoing guidance and sup- to send the contracts. Eventually as a number of Mangosuthu Uni- port to the CREW Programme. the contracts arrived, and were subsequently signed and sealed, but I had no guidelines as to how to proceed. The only resources I had were my laptop, 3G card and my News from the Groen- brain. After giving it some thought, I devised a questionnaire for each CREW Eastern Cape village in order to find out what en- vironmental issues they were deal- ing with, whether they were aware node of the causes and consequences of the issues, and what they value Vathiswa Zikishe as a community. Responses to the first task led to a series of activities being planned for each village. The stablishing the CREW Pro- sa people live. They recognised responses revealed the unique- Egramme in the Eastern Cape, that overexploitation of natural ness of each village regarding particularly the Albany region, resources threatens not only biodi- how they interact with the natural has been in the pipeline since versity but also indigenous knowl- environment, their understanding 2012 but was hampered by a edge and ultimately South Africa’s of environmental issues and their lack of funds. Towards the end natural heritage. Their knowledge values. For example, Pirie Mission of 2012, the Development Bank and expertise make them valued is faced with poverty issues, which of Southern Africa presented partners for us at CREW. lead to crime and degraded natural a green jobs fund opportunity, resources as a result of hunting widely known as Groen Seben- To achieve the aims of the pro- and over-harvesting of medicinal za, to SANBI and this allowed ject, we chose the villages of Pirie plants to generate income for their the realisation of our dream of Mission and Ngqinisa within the households. Ngqinisa on the other piloting the CREW Programme Cacadu District Municipality and hand is very dependent on natural in the Eastern Cape. I call it employed six matriculants, four of resources to meet the needs of Groen-CREW, and it is indeed a whom are based in the villages and their livestock as well as their liveli- green CREW at this stage. two in Grahamstown. Pirie Mission hood. They experience problems is situated inland, a few kilometers such as bush encroachment, which The Groen-CREW Eastern Cape from King William’s Town and has is caused by overgrazing, and over- Node aims to collect biological a vast indigenous forest, which is exploitation of medicinal plants by data on all organisms (but focus- unfortunately being extensively people from other villages. The ing mostly on plants), to gather harvested for medicinal and other responses from these two villages indigenous knowledge, and to raise cultural uses. Ngqinisa lies be- may seem different but the bottom awareness about biodiversity con- tween Hamburg or Port Alfred and line is that both communities are servation through environmental East London and is a very special faced with environmental issues. education and community outreach area with a variety of ecosystems, One of the aims of the project is to programmes. To attain this, we ranging from forest to marine. It is raise awareness of these issues have collaborated with Rhodes Uni- also very rich in natural resources. and workshop some of them with versity’s Inkcubeko Nendalo (mean- Both villages have potential for bio- the communities to find solutions or ing ‘Culture and Nature’ in isiXho- cultural research. to improve the situation. sa), led by Tony Dold and his wife Michelle Cocks. Tony and Michelle June 2013 marked the beginning of The core aim of CREW in the East- have been conducting research for the project. There was no existing ern Cape is to collect and docu- more than 10 years, focusing on CREW Programme in this part of ment plant diversity. In July we had 6 the former Ciskei areas where Xho- the world and it was my first experi- our first workshop on how to collect Tony explaining one of the plant identifi- cation processes; comparing a herbari- um specimen with fresh material.

descriptions. Subsequently, Tony presented training in basic termi- nology and the use of keys to iden- tify specimens. We were amazed to find that within the period of two days, they were able to identify some of the specimens with con- siderable accuracy.

The following comments were The CREW Groen Sebenza Eastern Cape team. Front row from left: Khululwa made by the para-ecologists after Gxekwa (Grahamstown-based Conservation Officer), Landiso Mila (para-ecologist introducing them to the project and based at Pirie Mission) and Siphosethu Moshanin (para-ecologist based at Ng- qinisa). Standing from left: Mzukisi Beja (para-ecologist at Ngqinisa), Someleze training them in collecting speci- Mgcuwa (para-ecologist based at Pirie Mission), Tony Dold (Selmar Schonland mens: Herbarium Curator and co-mentor of the Groen Sebenza project), Michelle Cocks (Senior Researcher based at Rhodes University’s Anthropology Department) and “There’s so much more to a flower Vathiswa Zikishe (CREW and Groen Sebenza Co-ordinator). than just its beauty; I now look at plants differently! I used to hunt , and harvest sea food and specimens. The para-ecologists areas where network coverage is medicinal plants with the idea that learned about the history of the very poor. From assessing their they belong to us, so we can har- herbarium, why it exists and what specimens, we realised that the vest as much of them as we like, it can be used for, and they were lack of basic botany terminology but that mindset has now changed. trained to do the same things as detracted from the quality of their I’m now aware about the impor- the early botanists and explorers that visited this area. These are crucial skills for accurately docu- menting and monitoring our flora, as specimens are useful for con- servation science and they have various other purposes in other related fields of study. Plant collec- tion is not as simple as it seems, particularly when you did not do natural science or biology at school and lack basic knowledge of the terminology used in botany. After the training, the para-ecologists went back to their villages and started collecting. Tony and I set off for the villages two weeks later and we were both amazed by the re- sults. Some of the para-ecologists had even gone to the lengths of researching the plant names on the internet, despite living in deep rural Mzukisi Beja and Landiso Mila busy with their drawing task. 7 tance of our natural resources, and about and that helps with my teach- that we need to protect them for the ing at schools”, said Mluleki Nkosi. future generations”, said Mzukisi Beja. The choice of working with ma- triculants was a good one but there “I’m fascinated by plant morphol- were challenges presented by ogy, especially the internal struc- literacy levels and understanding tures”, said Khululwa Gxekwa. the language of science, botany in “This opportunity has inspired me particular. However, the para-ecol- to dream again”, said Landiso Mila. ogists’ enthusiasm, courage and eagerness motivates and inspires “This is an interesting field of study me in so many ways. It is true that and I’m falling in love with it”, said you can have all the resources at Siphosethu Moshani. your disposal but if you don’t have “This project has changed my the right people to carry the vision mindset; I used to have a problem forward, the project is doomed. So with DAFF rangers arresting our far, we have managed to change people in the forest when collecting their mindsets and won their hearts medicinal plants. I now understand to conservation as caretakers of the reason why: it is to stop our in- the environment. The huge task digenous plants from going extinct”, ahead of us is to keep them moti- said Someleze Mgcuwa. vated, something you’ll hopefully “I now have a better understanding read about in the next issue of the of what Nature conservation is all CREW newsletter! Landiso Mila pressing his specimens.

The Botanical Society Biodiversity Stewardship Project in KwaZulu-Natal

Isabel Johnson

Since the main purpose of steward- diversity of a number of steward- his has been another busy ship is to conserve biodiversity, we ship sites and to examine the rela- Tyear for the Biodiversity have initiated a long-term monitor- tion between veld condition and Stewardship Programme in Kwa- ing programme to ascertain the plant diversity. Many hours have Zulu-Natal, with approximately effects of grazing on the plant been spent on hands and knees in 22 000 hectares of private and communally owned land secured for conservation. Rewarding progress for the BotSoc-CEPF (Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund) funded project was the eventual signing of the procla- mation papers for Red Desert Nature Reserve in Pondoland by the MEC. This has been an extremely long and frustrating process but we are all delighted that it has finally happened. We have also secured Bosch Berg Nature Reserve near Boston, an extension to the existing Boston View Biodiversity Steward- ship Agreement area, and most other sites are progressing well, if 8 slowly. Surveying Boston View plots. Regional suspects of the Invasive Species Programme: Help us Brachystelma sandersonii. find them!

Asclepias praemorsa. survey is. The Pondoland CREW Reshnee Lalla, with contributions group helped me out with assess- from Bongani Mashele, Dan’sile ing the damage caused by illegal Cindi, Ernita van Wyk, Haylee various collecting ‘eco- bulldozing at the Fairview site on Kaplan, Kanyisa Jama & Peter 2 scraps’ from 100 m plots as a prel- the south coast followed by a quick Shisani ude to yet more hours of mystery walk in the where we solving in the herbarium. We have again found Brachystelma sander- also done several veld condition sonii (Vulnerable). The Mkham- he Invasive Species Pro- assessments with the Department bathini CREW group and BotSoc Tgramme: Early Detection and of Agriculture and we are becoming members visited Virginia (part Rapid Response (ISP: EDRR) quite proficient at identifying grass of the Ingwehumbe Nature Re- based within SANBI and work- species when not in flower, as well serve) in late November with Geoff ing across all nine provinces, as doing soil classification. I have Nicholls to track down his previous targets invasive species with also been lucky to get to some sighting of the Critically Endan- limited known distributions and fascinating places while assisting gered Brachystelma natalensis, a aims to prevent further spread. with site assessments for the stew- KwaZulu-Natal sandstone sourveld The co-ordination of a national ardship programme at Babanango, endemic. Sadly the area hadn’t programme of this nature is a Phinda, Upper Pongola, Swartberg, been burnt for a while and we didn’t complex task and has to con- Ozabeni and Ncandu. find any but we now know exactly sider a multiplicity of issues, where to look when it is burnt. We including the different dynamics In addition, there have been some did find many Asclepias praemorsa in the provinces, environment, rewarding CREW-Stewardship out- (another sandstone sourveld en- climate, strategies, priorities, ings, including our annual new year demic) in flower. A visit to Lake stakeholders and leadership. visit to Happy Valley at Impendle Lyndhurst with the Midlands CREW (now a recognised surveyed flower group on a breathtakingly beautiful In order to work effectively at a lo- reserve as part of the Upper Um- day in spring revealed thousands of cal level, regional units of the ISP geni Stewardship area) where we Moraea graminicola subsp. grami- have been set up to allow for local- added several new records to the nicola (Near Threatened) in flower. ised operations, species prioritisa- growing list of over 200 species. It tion, and closer interaction and col- is amazing how every visit at the The good news is that we have laboration with local stakeholders, same time in January still yields secured CEPF funding for another while delivering on national goals surprises and it makes one realise year so I am looking forward to and targets. just how inadequate a once-off more exciting stewardship work! Over the years the CREW Pro- gramme has become one of our key partners. The ISP wishes to acknowledge the support and con- tributions of CREW staff and vol- unteers, especially their support in surveillance of ISP target species. The contribution of CREW ‘eyes and ears’ is invaluable to our detec- tion work.

This article highlights one target species from each of the ISP re- gional units. We hope this will serve to harness and expand the exist- The weather can be challenging! ing partnership between ISP and 9 CREW and engender increased communication between stakehold- ers across the country.

If you see any of the plant species described here, please contact the ISP. Contact details of regional units are provided at the end. KwaZulu-Natal: Rubus ellipticus (yellow Himalayan raspberry)

Native to Asia, this robust shrub was recently detected for the first Red hairy bristles on the stems and branches of young plants of Rubus ellipticus. time in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal. In contrast to its notorious cousin, the American bramble (Rubus cuneifolius), R. ellipticus can pro- Eastern Cape: duce arching branches and attain Carduus nutans heights of up to 7 m. Reproduction can occur via seed and root suck- (nodding thistle) ers. are dark green and trifoliolate, with roundish leaflets. Carduus nutans is a member of Stems and branches of young the Asteraceae, native to Eurasia. plants are covered in dense red It is a herb with sharp spines that hairy bristles, which could turn densely cover the stems and brown with age. Flowers are white, margin, which gives the plant its and the raspberry-like fruit turns spiny texture. Growing at the top of yellow when mature. the stem are large pink or purple flower heads, which usually bend over and ‘nod’ at a 90-degree an- gle. In South Africa, the species is Nodding heads of Carduus nutans widespread in Grahamstown, Cra- (photograph: Lesley Henderson). dock, Kenton-on-Sea, Port Alfred, Paterson and Addo. It is a prolific seed producer—each flower can species and has the ability to re- produce up to 1 200 straw-coloured duce productivity of pasture and seeds (Smith & Kok 1984). Car- rangeland by chemically inhibiting duus nutans is an aggressive in- growth of other plant species (al- vader that out-competes native lelopathy).

10 Trifoliolate leaves of Rubus ellipticus. A stand of Carduus nutans (photograph: Lesley Henderson). Western Cape: and released after fire. The species is therefore well suited to becoming Melaleuca hypericifolia established and spreading in coast- (hillock bush) al zones where the area is naturally fire-prone, and where the habitat is This attractive shrub is native to moist enough (Brophy et al. 2013). New South Wales, . In Plants can grow up to 6 m high South Africa, it has invaded moist and the branches have a weeping areas of Table Mountain and can habit. The leaf arrangement is very be found cultivated in residential distinctive (opposite, 10–40 mm gardens in coastal towns of the long and 4–10 mm wide) and they Western Cape. It is adapted to smell like camphor when crushed. coastal conditions. Seeds are held The flowers are attractive red bot- in the canopy in woody capsules tlebrushes.

Red flowers of Melaleuca hypericifolia.

Weeping branches of Melaleuca hypericifolia.

Northern Cape: on its stems. Plants usually grow in clumps up to 0.5 m tall. The stem articulatus segments fall off easily and will usually root wherever they land. (pine cone ) This species also produces small winged seeds that spread easily in Small clusters of bristles on stems of This popular ornamental plant has the wind. Tephrocactus articulatus. a high invasive potential. Similar to other cactus weeds, this species invades by forming large, dense clumps that spread vegetatively and are often difficult to remove. Look out for a small greyish green cactus with segmented cylindrical stems that resemble pine cones (hence the common name). The plants are often spineless but can sometimes have long, white pa- pery spines (Walters et al. 2011). Pine cone cactus plants can easily be confused with native Hoodia species but the former has small clusters of dark bristles (glochids) A clump of Tephrocactus articulatus. 11 Mpumalanga: Cryptostegia grandiflora (rubber vine)

Cryptostegia grandiflora is native to Madagascar and is known to occur in natural environments in Mpumalanga and Limpopo. This species invades areas, riverbanks and dongas, smother- ing indigenous species, including large trees, and severely threatens riverine environments by displacing plants and animals. It is poisonous and the sap is an irritant to skin and eyes. It is a scrambling shrub 2–3 m tall or a climber 10 m or more. Branches are smooth with numerous small lenticels. Leaves are dark green, shiny, smooth, egg- or wedge-shaped to tapering at the base, 60–90 × 30–50 mm. Flowers are pale pink to purplish pink. Fruits are in the form of sacs, often more than 100 mm long, splitting in half Cryptostegia grandiflora in the field. to release seeds with tufts of hairs 30–40 mm long (Marohasy & For- ster 1991). Limpopo and stems to climb up trees to heights of 6–9 m (Oakley & Kiesling 2013). North-West Flowers are tubular, pale yellow to white, producing bright red scaly Province: fruits. Harrisia balansae (climbing harrisia)

A small infestation of this cactus was discovered on a farm called Skruinsdrift about 10 km north of Groot Marico. The invader, which is of Argentinian origin, spread from an abandoned farmhouse and has covered an area of less than 20 ha on both sides of the Straatsdrif Road. It has the potential to devel- op into a serious invader, hence the decision to attempt eradication. An- other population has been detected near Modimolle, Limpopo Province where it is invading Mkleuw Farm Lodge and 26 Sussenvale Farm along the R101 Road. It is a succu- lent cactus with long 3- or 4-angled spiny or cylindrical unbranched stems. Spines are arranged in clusters, usually with one long spine (30 mm long) and several shorter spines (10–20 mm long). Its Pale pink to purplish pink flowers of clambering growth habit allows the 12 Cryptostegia grandiflora. Spiny stems of Harrisia balansae. Tubular flowers of Harrisia balansae.

Gauteng and Free green, erect, flattened with a raised midrib, to 1 m long, with about 10 State: per ramet (individual member of Iris pseudacorus clone). Rhizomes are pink in colour. Large showy flowers (with a typi- (yellow flag iris) cal iris structure) are yellow with brownish mottled markings on up- Native to North Africa, Europe and per surfaces and are produced in Green to blue-green, sword-shaped Asia, this species has become nat- spring or early summer. The fruit is leaves of Iris pseudacorus. uralised in Australia, South Ameri- a dry capsule 40–70 mm long, with ca, North America and South Africa numerous pale brown seeds. This and is invasive in many temperate plant may be confused with the in- parts of the world. In South Africa digenous albeit uncommon Moraea it is invading wetlands and is a pro- huttonii that grows in similar habi- posed category 1a species in NEM- tats. Collaboration with stakehold- BA. According to the South African Plant Invaders Atlas database, Iris ers such as the Moreletaspruit pseudacorus was previously re- Invader Task team, Tshwane Mu- corded from four localities in South nicipality, University of Pretoria and Africa. In Gauteng the first record local residents has resulted in new was in 2004 at the Vaal River populations being reported. Clear- between Vereeniging and Vander- ing attempts to assess feasibility bijlpark. In Limpopo Province it was of management were conducted recorded at Klein Kariba Pleasure on isolated populations in Serene Resort near Bela-Bela in a wetland Valley during November 2013, re- adjacent to the camping site and it sulting in the removal of seven I. has recently (2010 to 2013) been peudacorus plants. recorded in Equestria, Pretoria and Howick, KwaZulu-Natal. It is a her- The ISP is based within the South baceous perennial plant, 1.0–1.5 m African National Biodiversity Insti- (or a rare 2.0 m) tall. Leaves are tute and is funded by the Depart- sword-shaped, green to blue- ment of Environmental Affairs. Flower of Iris pseudacorus. 13 Contact Details for ISP Regional Units

Regional unit Contact Person Email Tel

KwaZulu-Natal Reshnee Lalla [email protected] 031 207 6480/2

Eastern Cape Kanyisa Jama [email protected] 043 726 7450

Western Cape Ernita van Wyk [email protected] 021 799 8678

Northern Cape Travor Xivuri [email protected] 021 799 8406

Mpumalanga Bongani Mashele [email protected] 013 752 6504

Limpopo and North-West Province Peter Shisani [email protected] 012 843 5013

Gauteng and Free State Dan’sile Cindi [email protected] 012 843 5152

References Brophy J.J., Craven, L.A. & Doran, J.C. 2013. Melaleucas: their botany, essential oils and uses. ACIAR Mono- graph No. 156. Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Canberra.

Marohasy, J. & Forster, P.I. 1991. A taxonomic revision of Cryptostegia R.Br.(Asclepiadaceae: Periplocoideae). Australian Systematic Botany 4: 571–577.

Oakley, L. & Kiesling, R. 2013. Harrisia balansae. In: IUCN 2013. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2013.2

Walters, M., Figueiredo, E., Crouch, N.R., Winter, P.J.D., Smith, G.F., Zimmermann, H.G. & Mashope, B.K. 2011. Naturalised and invasive succulents of southern Africa. Abc Taxa 11: i–x.

Smith L.M. & Kok, L.T. 1984. Dispersal of musk thistle (Carduus nutans) seeds. Weed Science 32: 120–125.

News from the Limpopo CREW group

Bronwyn Egan & Sylvie Köhne

he CREW group in Limpopo clivicola and the much more com- In March 2013 we were joined by Tis a new initiative and mem- mon E. schinzii so we await expert Domitilla Raimondo and Lize von bers often feel overwhelmed by taxonomic input. A follow-up visit Staden. This provided the incentive not knowing where to start. This confirmed the presence of this con- to access the Serala Peak in the decision was taken out of our fusing species on hills opposite the Wolkberg in order to gain experi- hands by the construction along quarry and an extensive search in ence working with the datasheets the R71 between Polokwane and the uninhabited area beyond these and to look out for specials in this Tzaneen. hills is envisaged. beautiful area. An important aspect of this outing was that students We were aware of the possible Chlorophytum radula is a Criti- from the University of Limpopo presence of Euphorbia clivicola, a were able to join us and gain ex- nondescript but Critically Endan- cally Endangered species found in perience in CREW techniques, gered endemic succulent, along grassland remnants such as fire- as well as an appreciation for the the road verge in certain places breaks on some of Komatiland For- ests’ land. Our two visits to these beauty and conservation value of but we had not surveyed in this the Wolkberg. area. In February 2013 we were areas revealed that the populations asked to identify some Euphor- are in good condition and that they Aster nubimontis (Endangered) and bia species, possibly E. clivicola, are not in immediate danger, as Inezia speciosa (Endangered) were near the widened road. This was long as pine seedlings are cleared the targets of our trip to the Stylkop a good place to start but it opened regularly, bush-encroachment is area of the Wolkberg in early No- a can of worms in that the plants kept under control, and the areas vember. This trip was a good learn- 14 seem to be somewhere between E. are monitored. ing opportunity for Alvin Mapatha News from the Mpumalanga Plant Specialist Group

Barbara Turpin

‘club’ that exists in Mpuma- A langa for anyone who has an interest in learning about the local flora, the Plant Specialist Group (PSG), runs two ‘lecture’ weekends a year along with a number of plant-spotting out- ings. The purpose of the expedi- tions is either to draw up spe- cies lists for particular farms, or to look for populations of Data Deficient and threatened plants as identified by Domitilla Raimondo and Lize von Staden. The Limpopo CREW group enjoying the field. This year, the outings had a very definite Barberton theme! and Seloba Chuene who had fun in the area. By the end of the meet- In February 2013 PSG visited a twisting their tongues around the ing and site visit, the tribal authority ridge above Vertroosting Nature scientific names of all the flowers had assured us that they would we came across. Both species work to prevent development in the were found with I. speciosa in par- area and would show us popula- ticularly pleasing numbers. tions of the plants that had not yet been mapped. We hope that during Then in mid-November, the 2014 we can collaborate with this Mothiba tribe, together with the community on further monitoring Department of Economic Affairs, and protecting these populations. Environment and Tourism (LEDET), the Polokwane Municipality and CREW Limpopo had an exciting a local botanist, invited CREW to end to our activities with a three- view the remaining populations of day walk on the Blouberg Mountain Euphorbia groenewaldii (Critically near Senwabarwana. Although Endangered) growing in a small the rest of the province had had area between Polokwane and Hae- some rain, Blouberg was still ex- nertsburg. Some objectives were tremely dry. We collected Rapanea to introduce the community to the melanophloeos (Declining) and importance of the plant, to view the Warburgia salutaris (Endangered), existing populations, and to discuss both specials on our list. Rare, possible unknown populations with endemic plants found included Ty- experts in the local community. It lophora coddii (Rare), Mystacidium was of overriding importance to braybonae (Near Threatened) and gain the support of the local leader- Berkheya radyeri (Rare). We plan Habenaria cf. mossii at Vertroosting ship (tribal authority) in protecting to repeat the trip in February 2014 Nature Reserve (photograph: J.E. Bur- the plants from illegal development after the rains have fallen. rows). 15 ing a colony growing among rocks, even though they had finished flow- ering. This species was previously only known from the Magnesite Mine area near Malelane. Some of the other exciting finds included the beautiful little Ledebouria cremno- phylla (hitherto known only from the Honeybird Creek area near Barber- ton), Ozoroa barbertonensis and Gymnosporia sp. nov. (a serpentine endemic with scabrid leaves).

Our last outing of the year, at the beginning of December 2013, was to Heemstede, near Barberton. Among the interesting finds here was one of Sandie Burrows’ new Asparagus species that she is describing, namely A. barbertoni- cus—a Barberton endemic. The target species was the rare orchid Surveying Senegalia lotteri with its namesake at Mundts concession, Barberton (photograph: Lize von Staden). Nervilia kotschyi var. purpurata. A few populations were discovered near a stream in wet soil, but, un- fortunately, they were not flower- Reserve near Sabie and enumer- We made use of the wonderfully ated 153 species. One of the spe- shaded bush camp next to a bur- ing. While hunting for the orchid, cials that we found was a colony of bling stream at the bottom of the we came across the Vulnerable the slow-growing Aloe alooides, a valley. Among the notable finds Brachystelma longifolium and Oxa- dolomite endemic. Its habitat is not were Senecio triodontiphyllus (Vul- lis davyana. There were quite a few threatened since the plant favours nerable) and a new geoxylic suf- different Hypoxis species growing outcrops and cliff faces, which are frutex species of Ochna that will be in the grassland and with Dr Yashi- unsuitable for pine plantations. We described at Kew. ca Singh’s help, we hope to identify also found a Habenaria that may be them soon. an undescribed species. October 2013 saw us exploring the serpentines around Barberton We are looking forward to this In April 2013, Barberton Moun- looking for, in particular, Macledium year’s PSG/CREW outings search- tainlands invited PSG to help with zeyheri subsp. thyrsiflorum(Threat - ing for rare and endangered plants the floral aspect of their ‘bioblitz’. ened). We cheered heartily on find- in Mpumalanga.

Zululand CREW reports on the field trip to Ozabeni

Francois du Randt

he Ozabeni Wilderness Area the area. The group constituted special attention, that is, the Ma- Tin Zululand is a host to rare Dr Theo Mostert (University of putaland wooded grassland or vegetation in its woody grass- Zululand), Francois and Ron- palmveld, and the sand forest in land, swamp forest and sand elle du Randt (Dendrological its totality. The Ozabeni wooded forest. On 20 October 2013, Society), and Suvarna Parbhoo, grassland falls in the Maputaland members of CREW and the Zulu- Joycelyn Sutherland and Jill Palmveld ecological habitat. It is land branch of the Dendrological Sheldon (KwaZulu-Natal CREW not really a wooded grassland, but Society visited the area with the Node). it is in fact an underground for- aim of exploring, identifying and There are two main ecological est, because so many plants have 16 monitoring trees and plants in habitats in Maputaland that need underground rootstocks and are classified as geoxylic suffrutices. Examples include Parinari capen- sis var. incohata, Salacia kraussii and Elephantorrhiza elephantina. Having an underground rootstock provides protection from veld fires. These geoxylic suffrutex plants are of considerable conservation importance. From a distance, the real wooded grassland can be distinguished easily from ordinary grassland as it is darker green. The lighter green coloured grasses are found in wetter, probably season- ally waterlogged regions. We drove up to the Mbazwane Drainage Line and saw numerous flowers but unfortunately, we did not have any time to access the swamp forest.

The original intention was to cover both the Maputaland Palmveld and grassland, as well the Mbazwane Drainage Line swamp forest but this was not possible because of time constraints and poor weather Theo Mostert at Ozabeni. conditions. Some roads and man- agement tracks were explored be- tween Sodwana Bay access gate tance of the wooded grassland do more exploration on both sides and the northern part of the Mba- because of its rare and interesting of the Mbazwane Drainage Line. zwane Drainage Line. The group geoxylic suffrutex plants. The Den- We suggest educating the general stayed east of the drainage line and drological Society and CREW will could not find easy access towards compile a complete database of public about this fascinating, wood- the western side. The group quickly recorded species. It is very impor- ed grassland and the importance of realised the conservation impor- tant to follow up on this trip, and to conserving it for future generations.

News from the Midlands CREW group

Nikki Brighton

idlands CREW has many en- visiting the Edgeware grassland in most of us. Amongst the dolerite Mthusiastic amateurs with a Boston to search for a specimen of rocks in Impendle Nature Reserve sprinkling of experts, but every- an interesting Morea photographed we found Boweia volubilis (Vulner- one keeps learning all the time. last season but so far unidentified. able) and (we think) Senecio drege- Excursions range from explor- We were unable to locate it and anus (Vulnerable), both of which ing old favourites (plants and also missed out on the Schizoglos- caused some excitement. places), to compiling impressive sum bidens subsp. hirtum (Data plant lists with a regular visit to Deficient—Insufficient Information) We are fortunate that there are Happy Valley in January for the that we were looking for, but we many regular walks in natural past 10 years that has produced saw Cycnium racemosum for the places in the Midlands. We are able a list of 222 plants with 32 new first time on this site, as well as to join these for informal botanis- plants recorded this year, to many Asclepiads and dainty Pelar- ing without much effort in different finding new treasures in unex- gonium alchemilloides. seasons. We frustrate the hikers pected places, and assisting on though as we huddle around a tiny, sites for the Biodiversity Stew- On an excursion to the Highland pale splotch in the grass while they ardship Programme. Sourveld grassland of Lake Lynd- want to head up the hill! On one Eight field trips were planned for hurst, we discovered Vernonia of these walks, a small colony of the 2013/2014 season, including re- thodei near the wetland, a first for Asclepias woodii (Vulnerable) was 17 spotted on Beacon Hill—a special the plants in our grasslands so patch of mistbelt grassland right in share our experiences widely and News suburban Howick. Often our birding encourage young people to get friends join us too, which means involved. Enjoy all the pictures and everyone learns a lot about our read about Midlands CREW activi- plant and biodiversity. from the ties and Midlands wildflowers here: We believe that it is important to www.midlandsconservanciesforum. inspire others to get excited about wordpress.com Underberg CREW group

Sharron Berutti

any of the Red Listed plants Moccurring in the area cov- ered by the small Underberg CREW team are found in the Wil- derness Area of Maloti Drakens- berg Transfrontier Park. Unlike many other areas, it is likely that many of these species are sim- ply under-recorded rather than threatened by habitat changes. However, as access is by foot for Looking up the plant at Impendle Nature Reserve. the vast majority of the park, it is challenging to locate such spe- cies, particularly those occur- ring at higher altitudes. The year has been very successful and records are fully documented with specimens collected. As we build expertise and knowl- edge of species, we hope we can find sufficient new populations to bring about the down-listing of sev- eral Red Listed species.

New sites were found for the follow- ing five orchids in the Maloti Dra- kensberg Park: • Satyrium microrrhyncum (Rare—found at three localities varying in altitude by 600 m). • Schizochilus bulbinella (Rare— two populations, one numbering about 6 000 plants) • Disa sankeyi (Rare—one site) • Disa sanguinae (Rare—one site) A record of Disa oreophila subsp. erecta (Rare) awaits confirmation.

At the top of Edgeware—Peter Warren, Christina Potgieter sporting her BotSoc- Asclepias oreophila (Rare) was 18 CREW collecting bag, and Barbara Clulow observing a plant behind her. found at two sites. The one known Making ourselves at home in Gxalingenwa Cave. Aster confertifolius (Rare). site for Disa tysonii (Rare) was their description. Senecio kalingen- CREW outing to the Garden Castle monitored and a new site recorded. wae was reported from just one Section of the Maloti The population of Macowania site. We found both species—A. Park. hamata (Rare) on or near the road- confertifolius at six sites (number- side in Sani Pass has survived ing thousands) and S. kalingenwae Without the support of Ezemvelo road-widening operations. Popu- in three small pockets of highly KZN Wildlife, most of this work lations of one Sample Red List specialised micro-habitat in close would not be possible. In particu- Index species listed for monitoring, proximity and numbering just over lar, we thank Sonja Krueger for Anemone fannini (Near Threat- 100 individuals in total. Aspidonep- her support of the programme and ened), were mapped and counted. sis cognata (Rare—40 plants) was Charl Brummer for organising logis- A new population of Protea subves- also located on this trip and this tical support for the Gxalingenwa tita (Vulnerable) was located. species was located on another expedition. On farmlands outside of the Maloti Drakensberg Park, two populations of Disa scullyi (Endangered) were found and a large new population of Nerine pancratioides (Vulner- able) numbering perhaps 3 000 News from the plants was located. A highlight of the year was a Mkhambathini CREW four-day three-night expedition to Gxalingenwa Valley (Cobham Ezemvelo Wildlife Reserve) just group south of Sani Pass, overnighting at Gxalingenwa Cave. The team hiked 12.5 km to the cave and Ezemvelo Alison Young KZN Wildlife kindly provided pack- horses and staff to transport our gear. This was one of the locations uring the previous field sea- to a field with a different aspect, visited by Olive Hilliard and Brian Dson, we went on 14 outings we came across a population of (Bill) Burtt, legendary botanists who to nine localities, many of these obliquus (Declining) collected in the southern Dra- being follow-up visits for flower- probably saved from the resident kensberg and named many spe- ing material to confirm identifi- herd by the fence to stop cies. Their detailed collecting work cations. them getting into the sugarcane. It at 30 sites remains the definitive is quite special to see this plant in In September 2012 we went to the botanical analysis of this region to KwaZulu-Natal. this day. In the 1980s, they named Masonite Estate in Eston where we two species, Aster confertifolius confirmed a sighting of Hermannia In October there was a visit to a (Rare) and Senecio kalingenwae sandersonii (Vulnerable), which farm in Baynesfield next to the (Critically Rare), known only from is quite a way south of its previ- Estate that we visited two years this valley and unrecorded after ously collected range. Moving on before. Plants that should be in the 19 arifolia (Near Threatened) in the rocky sandstone outcrops on the edge of the Gwahumbe Valley. We also found another site record for Desmodium gangeticum (Least Concern) far south of its normal range.

In August 2013 we went for a drive between the N3 and the Umgeni River to the area around Nagle Dam. It had been the site of nu- merous very old collections but the area is now quite populous and overgrazed by goats and cat- tle. The uninhabited areas contain dense Acacia and Lantana thickets.

In November 2013 we teamed up with the inland branch of the Botanical Society to look for Brachystelma natalense (Critically Endangered), which had been seen Beautiful yellow-flowered Hermannia sandersonii. about 20 years previously. It was an unsuccessful outing from that point of view but we found a new area are Gerbera aurantiaca and are very vague about exact locali- locality for Argyrolobium longifo- Anemone fanninii (Near Threat- ties. In November, we went to a site lium (Vulnerable) which made the ened), neither of which we saw but 5 km east of Pietermaritzburg in trip worthwhile. The grasslands are the grasslands were in excellent the Upper Mpushini Conservancy well cared for in these parts and condition. in Ashburton. Unfortunately, histori- those patches that were not burned cally, this area has been under cat- this time will be burned next year, The Pietermaritzburg Indus- tle ranching until at least 50 years so we will return. trial Area is being built on the only ago and there is not too much bio- known locality for Brachystelma diversity left in the remnants of the There were several trips in De- franksiae subsp. franksiae (Vulner- grasslands we saw. able). The land around these popu- cember after quite a bit of late rain. One was to a site in Cato Ridge lations is also coming under heavy The highest point between Pie- where we found a single plant of pressure for housing developments termaritzburg and Durban is a hill the Vulnerable Dierama pallidum. and peri-urban activities. Euphor- called Ingomankulu, which has We squeezed in a visit to a lo- bia franksiae (Vulnerable) also oc- been surrounded by farmers who cal conservancy at World’s View curs here in large numbers. Both farm sugarcane and vegetables where there was Merwilla plumbea species had been reported in the rather than cattle. The plant life (Near Threatened), Drimia robusta Camperdown area but old records shows unique similarity to the (Data Deficient—Taxonomically Natal Group Sandstone remnants Problematic) and Boophone disti- that are more common closer to Durban. In December, we stum- cha (Declining). Boophone disticha bled upon new records of Senecio is one of the species we have to exuberans (Endangered), Schizo- monitor and we generally find it at glossum peglerae (Endangered) most sites but in very low numbers. and Zaluzianskya pilosa (Data Defi- However, the population at World’s cient—Taxonomically Problematic). View north of Pietermaritzburg has The population of Eriosema popu- the oldest and biggest plant bulbs lifolium subsp. populifolium (En- by far compared to the others we dangered) found here was different have seen, possibly because of the from the clone at Priscillavale found site’s inaccessibility to collectors. the year before—the leaves were On a return visit to a population of grey and all were unifoliolate and Kniphofia in the Umkomaas Val- the open flowers were a paler or- ley, which was flowering at a com- ange than Eriosema distinctum. pletely different time of the year, we confirmed that it was not Kniphofia January 2013 saw us trekking out albescens as we originally thought, 20 Woodia verrucosa. to find yellow flowering Aloe line- but a new locality for Kniphofia brevifolia. Then a large rocky fire- but they are abundant on disturbed ary to our searches—the species break on a farm in the Ingomankulu sites. They are also abundant in the we do actually see on the outings area revealed a huge population of Cato Ridge grasslands. are far more interesting. His- Argyrolobium longifolium (Vulner- torically, our area has been under- Having a rather large area to cover able). Several new localities were and such a short flowering season collected so we often find range found for Woodia verrucosa (Vul- means we are still trying to get to extensions for species. Almost all nerable) in Eston, Merrivale and as many sites as possible to find the good condition grasslands that Pietermaritzburg. Hypoxis hemero- the plants on our initial list from four we visit are so different from each callidea (Declining) is seen at all years ago. Many of the target spe- other, even when they are only sites in our region in small numbers cies have become rather second- short distances apart.

News from the Durban CREW group

Jocelyn Sutherland

ue to the late summer rains, Kloof were visited. The Klooflands/ found at the correct GPS co-ordi- Dgrassland inspections Msinsi Road site, which is moni- nate of the previous observation. were delayed and not as many tored by Kloof High School and However they were not yet in flower sites as we had hoped for were the Kloof Conservancy, was very and needed to be revisited in 2–4 visited. On 7 October we visited promising. There were numerous weeks’ time for confirmation. A very the grassland at Giba Gorge, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, Pelargo- pleasing find was a large (in excess an eThekwini priority area, as nium luridum in shades from cream of 100 plants) flourishing colony of guests of the eThekweni en- to deep pink, and the spectacular Brachystelma pulchellum on the vironmental officers. A lovely Eulophia cucullata. We next vis- rocky edge of the krantz. variety of grassland species ited Monument Park, where they are trying to re-establish a natural Rose Dix and I did a preliminary were noted, but no specialities visit to Springside Nature Reserve were recorded during this visit. grassland. This will take some time as there is still a lot of lawn on 8 January. This is quite a spe- However, monthly visits would cial area having both grassland be desirable if time permits. grass that needs to be removed. However, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, and forest. Boophone disticha and On 18 November we revisited the undulatum and Orni- Stangeria eriopus are present in Monteseel grassland near the thogalum tenuiflium were establish- the grassland. A lovely observation water tower, where Brachystelma ing nicely. was Eulophia parvilabris which has pulchellum (Near Threatened) was not previously been recorded in this recorded in November 2012. It was A return visit to the view site at area. I found a single plant there in pleasing to note that the colony re- Krantzkloof Nature Reserve was January 2013. This year seven or mains intact and increasing. made on 11 December to monitor eight plants were found, all flour- Brachystelma natalense (Critically ishing and flowering well. More in On the 20th November some of the Endangered). Plants thought to depth studies need to be done in eThekweni priority grasslands in be Brachystelma natalense were this reserve.

News from the Pondoland Centre of Endemism CREW group

Graham Grieve

adly, the leader of the Pon- sorely felt, the PCE group is of healthy populations of Brachy- Sdoland Centre of Endemism committed to continuing with stelma molaventi (Vulnerable) and (PCE) CREW group, Tony Ab- CREW activities. Struthiola anomala (Vulnerable ). bott, passed away in October In February we made a trip to the They were both found at known lo- after complications from heart Ngele area, staying at Forest Side. cations as well as some new sites. surgery. While his loss has been Here we confirmed the presence Also in February we discovered a 21 Pachycarpus at Smedmore in the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve and after discussions with Melissa Glen (Ph.D. student working on the ge- nus Pachycarpus), it turned out to be P. mackenii (Data Deficient—In- sufficient Information) and appar- ently only the fourth record of this plant. We intend to revisit the area at the appropriate time to collect specimen material.

At different times of the year we walked the newly opened Mzimkulu trail at Port Shepstone, from the golf course to Royston Hall. There is an interesting variety of plants and we now have a list of 268 spe- cies (trees comprise one third), in- cluding some rare and endangered Brachystelma tenellum from the Oribi Flats. species. In April we came across a population of the endangered Be- gonia homonyma. Later in the year we found Rhynchosia hirta flower- ing along this trail—a new distribu- tion of this plant as it has previously only been recorded from Mpuma- langa and Limpopo provinces.

In May we went to the Mnyameni Falls in Pondoland to record a new locality for the orchid, Ypsilopus erectus. This species is uncommon in the PCE area.

A winter trip to Ngele is not always welcome but in August we set off for the mountains to look for a Greyia sp., which Auriol Batten il- lustrated in her Flowers of Southern Africa and had questioned whether this might be a new species. We Xysmalobium rhodanthum found at Ngele. were lucky with the timing and col- lected suitable flowering material for SANBI scientists to examine. Peckover search for Brachystelma tenellum (Vulnerable). The type lo- We visited Ngele again in Novem- cality has been destroyed, possibly ber and December with Ph.D. stu- by porcupines, but we were able to dents Melissa Glen (University of take him to another nearby locality KwaZulu-Natal) and Pieter Bester where we found a small but healthy (SANBI, Pretoria), to hunt for some population of this obscure Brachys- target species. We telma. Later that same day we were were extremely fortunate to find unsuccessful in finding Brachys- several Xysmalobium rhodanthum telma kerzneri (Vulnerable) in the plants in flower. The collected grounds of the Wild Coast Sun, its material will be used for the type type locality. description, soon to be published. Subsequently we came across We continue to survey and moni- two other species thought to be tor the condition and botanical undescribed, one Asclepias and richness of grasslands in the PCE a Xysmalobium. On another Apo- area, both in reserves and on pri- The PCE CREW group that visited For- 22 cynaceae hunt we helped Ralph vate land. est Side. News from the CREW A-Team

Graham Grieve

n early March last year, Kate IGrieve and I made our first visit to Ntsikeni. Although there were still many flowers, we realised that we had missed the peak flowering season by some weeks. So we were delighted when Suvarna Parbhoo decided to organise a combined Pondo- land and A-Team outing to the reserve in January. We spent two nights at Ntsikeni Lodge and this gave us plenty of time to explore different areas of the reserve. It was clear shortly after we had entered the reserve that there were many more flowering plants than during our last visit, and orchids were particularly obvious. The first big colony we came across was just after the stream crossing— CREW A-Team and Pondoland groups at Ntsikeni Nature Reserve. about two thirds of the way to the lodge—where we saw a big group and a solitary Disperis wealei. We of robust Disa cooperi, with D. slowly made our way back as the stachyoides and D. versicolor punc- sun started dipping and the beers tuating the gaps between them. started shouting from the lodge, Once I had managed to tear my all- findingMiraglossum pulchellum female group of companions away and Miraglossum ‘super bum’ (local from this display, we reached the pronunciation) hiding in the grass lodge to find one of the cottages we on the way. were to occupy being fumigated to get rid of a swarm of bees. The following morning we tackled a different part of the same slope, We decided to walk up into the and besides the species seen on Ntsikeni foothills while the fumigant the previous day, came across dissipated. Just outside the lodge some Disperis cardiophora and we came across a small group of Holothrix thodei. In the water- Disa scullyi (Endangered), and a courses we found several Eucomis little further D. rhodantha together comosa subsp. striata with long with some very yellow D. chryso- inflorescences.Kniphofia laxiflora stachya. Once we started climbing was prominent but there were also the gentle slopes at the bottom a few K. ischopensis in the water- Disa cornuta at Ntsikeni. of the mountain, we encountered courses. many Satyrium longicauda, rang- ing in colour from deep pink to It was interesting clambering over posure to X. rhodanthum at Ngele pure white. Soon we started finding the apparently barren rock slides to recently together with Pieter Bester Habenaria laevigata, well camou- hear the gurgle of water below. The and Melissa Glen, and confirmed flaged in the grass, and then Disa fringes of these slides are a habitat by its eponymous very bad smell. cornuta and Pterygodium magnum for small trees and these provide became the dominant orchids. shelter for many other small plants. This turned out to be a memorable There were Disperis tysonii as Not far from one of these we found trip with many interesting finds. A well. Once we reached the sand- our first (recently described) Xys- reserve well worth visiting despite stone outcrops, we found several malobium pedifoetidum—only rec- the poor condition of the internal Disa oreophylla var. oreophylla ognised as such through our ex- roads. 23 News from the Darling CREW group

Helene Preston

his year was one of the wet- Ttest in recent years for the west coast lowland . Unfortunately my husband and I missed most of it as we were on a three month tour of East Africa and returned at the end of August, well into one of the best flower seasons ever for the area. Within the first week of our return, we did a walk in the Renosterveld Reserve in Darling to find the veld carpeted with Ixia scillaris, Gladi- olus, Romulea, Pterygodium, Babi- ana and all the other early species. The attendance at our walks with flower enthusiasts in Yzerfontein and Darling increased each week as news spread about the wonder- ful variety of flowers to be seen. Babiana rubrocyanea. We also attracted day visitors from Cape Town. green belts and we saw stronger We were successful in finding many plants than usual, probably due to of the target species, such as Le- the extra rain. beckia plukenetiana (Endangered) After a call from Ismail to find a at Tienie Versfeld and in the West target species for November, our Coast Park on our cycle route, and biggest find for the year was As- Babiana rubrocyanea (Vulnerable) palathus glabrata (Critically Endan- in profusion during September in gered). This has been in our sights all the Darling reserves, public and for a few years. A week later we private. There was a wonderful found more plants at another site display of Agathosma thymifolia within the Groenkloof Reserve at (Vulnerable) within the West Coast Darling, about 2 km from the first National Park and on the public site. These are all waiting for Prof. open spaces within Yzerfontein, Charlie Stirton’s on-site confirma- where they were growing together tion. There are also plants growing with A. lanceolata and A. imbricata. within the West Coast Park on the Our special find: Aspalathus glabrata. The wet conditions extending into road shoulder in gravel that had October prevented further explora- been brought in from Darling when tion. We did log additional sites for the road was built 25 years ago! of the best ever, the attendance Muraltia macropetala (Vulnerable) These I can now easily monitor for was lower due to the heavy rains within the Darling reserves and on seed pods. the entire weekend. Under the the known sites along the Darling leadership of Pixie Littlewort, the renosterveld hills. Some of our group members have team at the specimen table collect- also been involved with helping the ed plants with great care to display The explosion of building activi- Biosphere teams compile site plant some of the rare and very special ties within Yzerfontein has dealt a lists for development proposals and plants of the Darling area. These blow to the plants within the village change of land-use in the greater always receive plenty of attention. as many have not been relocated. area. Thank you to Jacques van Luckily there are a few green cor- der Merwe for incorporating our We thank all at the CREW Cape ridors where it is hoped many will team in these outings. Floristic Region node for the help be able to establish themselves. and support throughout the year Gladiolus griseus (Critically Endan- Although the floral display at the and for keeping us looking for the 24 gered) flowered within one of these Darling Wildflower Show was one next rare and endangered plant! News from the Hottentots Holland CREW group

Cecilia Wolmarans

t was such a wonderful year Iof floral discoveries that it is difficult to highlight one specific trip. It seems that despite all its difficulties, nature still manages to wow us on every field trip. In March we held an informal work- shop, where we discussed our goals for the year. We are blessed with the abundance of places we can visit in our area. During the afternoon we covered some theory (petals, sepals and tepals) and worked with the microscopes. It is always very gratifying to see members discovering the anatomy of plants when they start to dissect them.

We started our field trips in June, Hottentots Holland CREW group in the field at Suikerbossie. with a visit to the Helderberg Na- ture Reserve. We tried desperately to find Geissorhiza setacea but we We explored a hill with granite out- could have been a little too early. crops and found Serruria kraussii The dam wall had recently been (Vulnerable). It was still early in the cleared of alien vegetation and we season for the bulbs, so we spent found this area to be a treasure some time on the Proteaceae and trove of bulbs. We found the lovely Restionaceae families. This is a Gladiolus recurvus (Vulnerable) as huge farm and will need further ex- well as Protea burchelli. ploration at a later date.

In July we were informed that a site In August 2013 we splashed in Somerset West, where several through pools of water on Harmony endangered species had occurred, Flats, with the Biodiversity Co- was bulldozed. The owner removed ordinator, Hayley-May Wittridge. a tree at the back of the plot but in This site remains a joy for any the process destroyed all the sur- plant lover—the more you look, Aristea cantharophila finally found after rounding vegetation. After spending the more you see. We managed to numerous searches. hours on the phone trying to get find Disa tenella subsp. tenella (En- hold of the owner, permission was dangered), a tiny little orchid with finally obtained to do a search and spiralled leaves. We endeavoured abundance and a variety of Lache- rescue. A plot in Sir Lowry’s Pass to visit Harmony Flats throughout nalia species popped up every- Village was secured as a destina- the year, as no records exist for the where. We were so glad that Ismail tion for the plants and we managed off-season. joined us for the day, as he spotted to replant a number of Babiana an- Xipotheca lanceolata (Endan- gustifolia (Near Threatened), Gladi- In September we visited the site gered). This hairy little plant, which olus recurvus (Vulnerable) and G. in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, which was not in flower at the time, would gracilis, to mention a few. we used for replanting the species have kept us guessing for days. recovered from Somerset West. The previous week Sarah Fergus- In July we also visited a farm called This turned out to be quite a feast son from the farm Suikerbossie Da Capo on the slopes of the for the eye. Species like Monsonia informed me that she found Aristea mountain close to Sir Lowry’s Pass. speciosa (Endangered) were in cantharophila (Vulnerable) but the 25 monkey beetles had a feast and again. It was a most successful a beautiful, diverse area is a bless- destroyed most of the flowers. As day, nevertheless. A warm thank ing. We have no doubt that we will Suikerbossie was so close, we de- you to Ismail, Zikhona and Anri for continue to find those specials in cided to cross the N2 to see if we making it a great day of discovery. the surrounding mountains or may- could find it. Sarah made a quick be even on our doorsteps! So much search and there they were. Two The diversity of plant life in our to do—so little time! open flowers, not yet destroyed by area is astounding. Living in such those pesky monkey beetles, were sitting there waiting to be admired! This was indeed one of the high- lights of the year. We continued spending more time at Suikerbos- sie, but as the next cold front ap- News from the proached, it got colder and colder and we decided to call it a day. Outramps CREW We also visited the Vergelegen farm in September. Since the farm started clearing alien vegetation ten group years ago, the transformation has been remarkable. This farm is not Di Turner only beautiful to visit but it keeps on delivering the specials and on this occasion we found Xipotheca t is almost unbelievable that Koos and Bob from CapeNature lanceolata (Endangered). Helen Iwe’ve reached the end of yet at Ruitersbos were waiting for us Pickering, who has been study- another field season. What a with their new-looking Landcruiser ing the genus Restio, is quite sure year it has been—evident in 260 bakkie. The first treat was seeing that she found Restio sabulosus site sheets, 40 specials moni- Gladiolus roseovenosus (Criti- (Endangered) in the marshy area tored that were new to the group cally Endangered) in flower. Our above the top dam. As this family in 2013, two new species found, next port of call was on the back is notoriously difficult to identify, we winning the WESSA regional slopes of Paardeberg, where Koos would like to confirm that sighting at awards, winning of a National showed us Xiphotheca phylicoides a later date. Kudu award from SANParks, (Critically Endangered). It was only Biodiversity Educational week- about 150 mm high. Threats to its On compiling our species list for end with Glenwood House, HAT existence are invasive alien plants Vergelegen, I found that there (High Altitude Team) created, and expanding plantations. were no GPS co-ordinates for the and 12 825 observations posted endangered species, so we made on iSpot. We then drove along the Haelkraal a special trip, just to get the co- Road heading west and turned And the cherry on the top is some ordinates and keep our records off on to the Bonniedale Road. As wonderful news from Prof. Charles up to date. On this trip we had to the going got tougher, we dumped Stirton that a new Aspalathus found re-locate Leucospermum guenzii. the Buchu Bus and then did a bit in Matjiesvlei by Brian (the boy), is Although I could remember the of mountain/rock-climbing in the being called Aspalathus outrampsii. exact spot, we were surrounded Landcruiser. Koos finally stopped, by Proteas growing waist-high. We Here follows some of the field trip having assured me that they nor- thought that it was going to be a highlights. mally drove to the top, “Maar julle hopeless task but right on the prec- is te bang.” We piled out of the ipice of a south-facing mountain 4 April: Phoenix rising out of back and slogged to the edge of slope they stood in all their glory— the ashes the burn. Unbelievably, the black yellow, orange and red flowers— and scorched land was covered right down to the valley below. ‘Phoenix rising out of the ashes’ with the exquisite pink flowers of was an apt description of the sight Cyrtanthus elatus. It was simply too In September Ismail presented an that met our eyes as we reached beautiful for words. What a sight introductory Botany course at the the burn on Thursday, 4 April. Ear- and what a day for the aunties and Helderberg Nature Reserve. This lier in the week, an e-mail from Dr one young man! was well attended by the Groen Anne Lise Vlok alerted us to the Sebenza interns from the Harold fact that Cyrtanthus debilis (Rare) 11 November: Mission accom- Porter National Botanical Garden, was flowering. It only flowers imme- plished as well as some members of the diately after a burn. This was likely Kogelberg CREW branch. We man- to be the last chance to see it in Prof. Charles Stirton asked us to aged a short walk in the reserve my lifetime and it was one chance I look for an Otholobium species that 26 before the rain came pouring down was not going to miss. was first seen by Jan Vlok in the The very rare and beautiful Langerberg The Outramps CREW group and rangers at Goukamma. special, Erica dysantha.

Fouriesberg area in the northern More than halfway up the slope, The searing heat was radiating off Outeniqua Mountains. His request we saw Leucadendron teretifolium the mountain as we made our way was prompted by Nick Helme, who (Near Threatened), which is never slowly to the Rooiwaterspruit Huts. said, “the Outramps love a chal- common. At the foot of this attrac- The place was spotless. All the lenge”. Well, we do, but this was tive strawberry conebush, was a rubbish had been removed and the quite a tall order. dark green mat about 150 mm high. huts were painted. The toilet is a Close examination yielded trifoliol- very welcome addition. We had a Most of the Outramps are on the ate leaves, pustules, but no flow- great evening but an early night, in geriatric and decrepit side but we ers. We took some photographs preparation for the big hike the next do indeed love a challenge. At an day. obscenely early hour, the aunties and collected a specimen and the plant’s identity was confirmed by and one boy set off for Fouriesberg Brian, Ann, Megan and I started off in the Paardebont area west of Prof. Stirton. With our mission ac- complished, the excitement was at 05:00 the next morning, leaving Safraanrivier. The farmer, Cornel Cheryl and Greg to come a bit later. Fourie, gave us his usual warm intense leaving us with a wonderful feeling. Near the beginning, light rain began welcome. We parked the Buchu to fall and by the time we reached Bus and set off on foot on the track the Nek at the start of Oom Boet that criss-cross the river about five 25 November: Where was the se Pad, the rain was torrential and times. At the start, we were very champagne? was being driven by a freezing gale careful and tried to keep our feet Our annual trip to the Langerberg force wind. By this time, Cheryl and dry. By the time we got to the last was a great success this year. The Greg had passed us, as we tried to crossing, it seemed easier to simply Outramps ‘HAT’ (High Altitude do site sheets in appalling condi- walk through the river, boots and Team) was gloriously successful tions. They dumped their packs at all. Jan had given us a map and and this promises wonderful things Charles had sent a description that the base of Sleeping Beauty and talked about a prostrate plant with for the future. We left George early headed for the top. We reluctantly pustules and no petals. Armed with in the morning for Riversdale and decided that discretion was the this, we picked a likely south-facing Garcia Pass. A short walk up the better part of valour and started slope to explore. It was rough going jeep track east of Rooiwaterspruit the long descent down to Ou Tol, and very steep. There were plenty took us to the starting point for bypassing the summit ridge. Near of pricklies like Metalasia acuta, the slog to check Erica ixanthera the bottom, Greg and Cheryl Aspalathus hirta and Aspalathus (Vulnerable). Greg, Cheryl, Brian caught up with us again. They com- sceptrum-aureum. Asparagus and Megan set off through the thick mented, “the conditions up there striatus lay in wait for the unwary. It bush, up a steep slope armed with were very difficult and dangerous wasn’t long before we were bleed- maps and co-ordinates supplied by and we didn’t see Erica dysantha,” ing freely from numerous scratches Bill. About an hour later, they came which was very disappointing. and cuts. back, flushed with success. That evening, after supper, Greg 27 remembered a small specimen that of the glorious dark pink Gladiolus While Brian did his homework, we he wanted to identify. I looked at it crispulatus (Rare). cracked the eastern summit and in disbelief, “but this is Erica dys- enjoyed splendid views. The Erica antha!” The jubilation and celebra- Next morning at the crack of dawn, will most probably also occur fur- tions were huge. HAT (Greg, Cheryl and Brian) took ther westwards where the ridge off to Kampscheberg on Kareekop. rises again to the western summit.” Exciting plants on this long day This is only the second known were the stunning Protea grandi- location of Erica dysantha (Endan- Now, as we move into 2014, we ceps (Near Threatened), speci- gered) and it was found there in have lots to ponder. It is unlikely that we can sustain the intensity mens of the very rarely recorded 2010 by Nick Helme. Greg had this of 2013 without straining the group Hippia hutchinsonia (Rare) and H. to say, “the walk up Kampsche- to breaking point. For a start, we integrifolia (Rare) for Dr Anthony berg should perhaps be upgraded will have to reduce the amount of Magee at Compton Herbarium. from ‘doddle’ to ‘bit of a slog’. We administration that is incurred on Leucospermum mundii (Rare) is popped out on the ridge a short field trips. On the positive side, we alive and well on the eastern side. way from the target area and found hope to develop the HAT further The stunning Erica blenna var. E. dysantha growing abundantly and once again explore some new grandiflora (Data Deficient) was but only in a narrow altitudinal band and exciting places in our search going over and we saw a number of about 1 300 to 1 325 metres. for rare and threatened plants.

News from the Kogelberg CREW group

Amida Johns & Ismail Ebrahim

he field season for the Ko- regular CREW C-team volunteers. Tgelberg CREWites started The species is in serious danger of slowly in 2013. Our first trip was becoming extinct as it only exists to the Botrivier area to assist as small scattered subpopulations with the CapeNature Steward- overrun by alien plants in remnant ship Programme and to sample patches excluded from fire. After the farms of keen landowners recording the location of the plants, in the area. The weather didn’t we continued to the next site with completely play along but we Mark and Amida. This trip included managed to get to the farm a seriously hectic and thrilling Porcupine Hills. This farm was 4×4 drive along the lower north- one of the first contract Nature ern slopes of the Kogelberg and Reserves proclaimed through southern border area of the Elgin the Stewardship Programme and basin to check on Erica caber- due to a change of landowner, netea (Critically Endangered), also we thought that it would be the known as the cabernet Erica, a tiny The Endangered Sorocephalus tenui- appropriate place to start. shrublet with wine red bell-shaped folius. The most exciting find for the flowers. The plants occur on open day was a population of Freylinia quartzitic gravelly patches that pro- to Mark Johns of CapeNature for helmei (Vulnerable), which was first vide a wonderful backdrop for the arranging the adventure. discovered in 2000 by Nick Helme stunning flowers. Ismail was very while mapping lowland renos- excited about seeing the diminutive The next notable trip was to look terveld fragments. powderpuff, Sorocephalus tenui- at the state of Serruria meisne- folius (Endangered). In the days of riana (Endangered) on the farm Our next trip was to look at a few the Protea Atlas Project, volunteers Paardenkloof on the northern surviving Leucadendron globosum kept count of the species they lower slopes of the Babilonstoring (Critically Endangered) plants on had seen. This was a species that Mountain. We found many of these the shale of the Elgin Valley. Ismail hadn’t seen yet, so he was stunning plants at their peak flow- We were alerted to this popula- over the moon to tick off another ering. This was another of those 28 tion by Janeen Nicols, one of the special on his life list! Many thanks exciting moments as it was the first time that we recorded this species hakeas are winning the battle at through the books in the Ria Olivier for CREW. Although the area has the moment. Hopefully they can get Herbarium at the Botany Depart- magnificent fynbos, the plight of more support and stop the invasion ment of Nelson Mandela Metro- our local plants was highlighted by of Hakea species. politan University. Once again, the frightening escalation in Hakea thanks goes to WESSA and the species that can potentially engulf We look forward to a productive NMBUCP for funding the printing of the mountainside. The landowners year in 2014 and lots of new popu- the guides, which now stands at a are doing what they can but the lations of threatened plants. whopping 106 pages!

Jenny Eldridge, one of our volun- teers as well as a member of the Dendrological Society, gave an enlightening talk on the identifica- News from the tion of trees to CREW volunteers and conservation officers as well as other members of Nelson Man- Port Elizabeth CREW dela Bay. This was followed by a walk along the Van Stadens Flower Reserve Forest Trail where we group could put our new knowledge into practice.

Clayton Weatherall-Thomas During the year we continued to search far and wide within the metro, both on CREW trips as well his was the year of unity for BotSoc. The printing and manufac- Tthe Port Elizabeth CREW turing of the signs were kindly paid as BotSoc outings and other excur- group, as we have started work- for through WESSA and the Nelson sions. On a trip to Hopewell Nature ing very closely with the Algoa Mandela Bay Urban Conserva- Reserve we were excited to find Branch of the Botanical Society, tion Project (NMBUCP), who also two Critically Endangered species, as well as other groups such as funded caps for our jolly group of Corpuscularia lehmannii and Ag- WESSA and FoVS—the Friends volunteers. athosma gonaquensis. These two of Van Stadens Wildflower Re- species are associated with rocky serve. Another activity tackled by CREW outcrops in moist fynbos southwest was the expansion and redesign of of our metro and have recently lost CREW teamed up with BotSoc in our field guide, due to our original a lot of habitat to the construction celebrating its centenary, as well as two being stolen. Our team spent a of another mall. The small popula- the ten year anniversary of CREW. couple of hours diligently searching tions found in Hopewell are the One centenary project was adopt- ing remnants of threatened veg- etation types in Nelson Mandela Bay, combing them for threatened plants and then clearing them of aliens and litter. This was a great success and three remnants were adopted in 2013. Signboards are to be erected on the sites that explain the vegetation type, as well as a short description of CREW and

Corpuscularia lehmannii at Hopewell. Alien clearing—Walmer Grassy Fynbos Adopt-a-Plot. 29 western-most populations found to vispina (Critically Endangered) 2012 to flower in 2013, and to our date and should be safe and pro- growing at the entrance to the great joy it appeared and has been tected there. Another species found estate. This is the western-most identified for us as the Barrydale in Hopewell was Senecio hirtifolius population we have found and ex- form of P. undulatum (Least Con- but true to form it was not in flower tends its possible range by many cern). There are also populations and the identification remains un- kilometres. Unfortunately no new of Holothrix secunda, confirmed. populations of Aspalathus cliffortii- arachnoidea, and Glottiphyllum folia were found, a cause for great depressum and hirsuta A number of searches for our two concern. flowered beautifully for us. coastal Aspalathus species re- vealed another small population Finally, I would like to thank all In January 2012 there was a extension. A BotSoc trip to a small the volunteers who faithfully make veld fire in the mountains around coastal nature reserve with a very the effort to attend all our field Swellendam and west of Barrydale. interesting forest type and one trips, hacks and other events. We As a result, February and March rather large yellowwood, revealed wouldn’t have a Port Elizabeth 2013 provided wonderful displays a population of Aspalathus recur- CREW group without you! of orchids in the seeps. The search continued for Pachites appressa (Rare). On 26 December 2013 a population of five plants was found in almost the same place as the previous year, now two years after News from the fire. The collection of plants of the Langeberg, especially from high Swellendam/Barry- altitude such as what Jill Blignaut is doing, continues which means that we got to spend several days in the dale CREW group mountains. This included climb- ing to the top of 1 O’Clock Peak Flora Cameron to collect summer flowering plants and another climb from the north towards the southern slopes tracing he CREW workshop is previously known from one section the Bruidegom’s Pad from Op die Talways a highlight of the of the park. Haworthia mirabilis Tradouw to Swellendam. year and CREW activities are (Rare) plants were found in the resumed with great enthusiasm same area. In February, we saw Several areas around Barrydale are after the talks and news of the populations of Cyrtanthus leptosi- being regularly monitored for the other groups’ activities. phon (Critically Endangered) inside plants that have been seen there. the park and on Kelkiewyn farm to These include Bartholina etheliae, At last the long promised survey to the east. Gibbaem velutinum (Vulnerable), establish the real status of Polhillia Haworthia magnifica var. maraisii, brevicalyx (Critically Endangered) In April, Muthama Muasya and one Wurmbea compacta (Vulnerable), and Wiborgiella bowieana (Criti- of his masters students paid Bar- Haworthia mucronata and Pelargo- cally Endangered) took place. Or- rydale a visit to collect soil samples nium tricolor to make sure they are ganised by the Overberg Lowlands from around our Wiborgia tenui- not being exposed to threats. Conservation Trust (in particular, folia (Near Threatened) plants in Odette Curtis) it was exciting to be renosterveld on a farm west of Bar- part of the group. The survey was a rydale. We have been monitoring great success. this area for two years and knew we had found the plants there. It A section of the Bontebok National was really interesting to be in the Park has recently been allocated field with him and to appreciate for a ‘plant walk/boardwalk’ for the importance of the ‘sandolien’ visitors. As we had not previously (Dodonea viscosa) transition veld had the opportunity to see this for Fabaceae such as Otholobium part of the reserve, we arranged species (O. candicans, O. striatum to do a survey of the area. To our and O. virgatum). Although these amazement we discovered large are not threatened, they are indica- populations of Protea decurrens tors of nitrogen fixing in this soil. In (Endangered), Erica filamentosa the same area we waited patiently (Vulnerable) and Diosma fallax (En- for the Pelargonium species that Diosma fallax in full bloom at Bontebok 30 dangered), each of which was only we had seen flowering in October National Park. News from the Worcester CREW (CREWsters) group

Tom Jordaan

he Worcester CREW group age via the activities of the various Tofficially started with a gath- organisations in which local CREW ering of twenty people at the members are involved, an increas- Karoo Desert National Botanical ing number of involved landowners, Garden in July 2013. and extensive cordial relationships Moraea worcesterensis, one of the flag- with currently uninvolved landown- ship species of the area. Apart from the four SANBI/CREW ers in the Worcester region. The representatives from Cape Town, establishment of CREW in Worces- this group included 12 members ter has also stimulated an increase unique floristic richness within the of the Mountain Club of South Af- in plant-specific activities in the local community (schools, farmers, rica (MCSA), Worcester Section, 2014 year programme of the local Worcester Tourism, local media 13 members/supporters of the MCSA section. and other organisations) is key to Worcester Club, (nine of whom CREW’s long term goals. Buy-in have attended outings organised We are also faced with several by the local municipality is an ur- by the local Elongatus Dendro- challenges. There is a need for gent priority. The current botanical logical Society), 11 landowners or improved co-ordination and com- taxonomic expertise of the majority land managers, two officials from munication with the CREW office at of the local CREW membership is CapeNature and Werner Voigt, Cu- Kirstenbosch (of which the Worces- very much at a beginner’s level, rator of the Karoo Desert National ter CREW group is currently still a which means that we are very reli- Botanical Garden. Of the locals, six satellite group) in terms of activity ant on the patient and long-suffer- are professional or advanced ama- dates and specific targeting of spe- ing support of the professional and teur botanists, the rest being more cies not already being monitored other expert botanists. We do not or less at the beginner level. by staff from Cape Town. The want to flood iSpot with seemingly expansion of awareness and local idiotic queries—any suggestions Activities in 2013 included attend- ‘ownership’ of, and co-responsibility and offers of assistance will be ing the 2013 annual CREW work- for conservation of the region’s greatly appreciated. shop, three Bioblitz events, search- ing for the elusive Ixia pumilio, find- ing a potentially new Lampranthus species in the Hex River Moun- tains, participation in a plant survey with Barry Low on Cornellsberg, discovering an extension of the dis- Nuus van die Jacobs- tribution of Moraea worcesterensis, monitoring the flowering period of Muraltia ferox and monthly Hakea baai/Weskus CREW hacks along the path to Thomas Hut. We also established three new long term plant survey projects groep in the Laingsburg Witteberg, at Maleishoek near Sutherland (both Koos Claassens non-farming conservancies) and along the path to Disa Dell in the Brandwacht Mountains. edert die ontdekking van In 2011 het Rupert Koopman weer Sdie krities bedreigde Moraea twee plante gekry en in 2012 het Strengths of this fledgling CREW loubseri was dit nog elke keer CREW baie tyd spandeer en 14 group include the strong numerical baie spesiaal om dit weer in die plante opgespoor. In al die ge- and varied interest base along with natuur te kon sien. In hierdie noemde jare was hierdie plante its existing organisational infra- eeu was daar in 2002 slegs drie op dieselde plek gevind; ‘n area structure, wide geographical cover- plante waargeneem. kleiner as 0.25 ha. 31 In 2013 het ‘n CREW lid, Johan Potgieter, 11 plante ontdek on- geveer 600 m verder vanaf die bestaande lokaliteit. Die hartseer van hierdie ontdekking is dat dit op ‘n onbeboude erf is in ‘n deel waar daar tans huise gebou word. Ons kan darem rapporteer dat daar in 2013 ‘n totaal van 23 plante gesien is.

Nog ‘n nuweling in ons area is in 2012 deur John Manning en Peter Goldblatt beskryf, naamlik Silene saldanhensis. Hierdie spesie kom in ‘n baie beperkte area voor, waarvan die habitat ook uiters uniek is. Ons hele area is deurge- soek om nog meer lokaliteite op te spoor en gelukkig het ons nog een lokaliteit van ongeveer 3 ha in grootte gevind.

Peter Goldblatt het ook ‘n baie in- teressante Babiana spesie ontdek wat op die oostelike kant van ‘n duin voorkom. Ons het bykans al The Critically Endangered Moraea loubseri. die duine in die area deurgesoek, maar kon nie meer daarvan op- spoor nie. Die taksonome sal nou moet bepaal of dit ‘n nuwe spesie is en of dit dalk net ‘n variasie is van een van die bestaande spesies. News from the Friends of Tygerberg Hills CREW group

Hedi Stummer

uring the past year Friends crammed with Red Listed plants Dof Tygerberg Hills (FOTH) and the Ladies are doing great CREW made 46 excursions to 31 work in making it pristine and sites. We continued our work in hopefully with our input of data, the Dassenberg Corridor, revisit- keeping it safe from development. ing old sites like Mamre, Dassen- berg, Kalbaskraal and McGregor, At Klein Dassenberg (250 ha now as well as adding new ones to purchased by the City of Cape our list like Prashanti and the Town) we found Pelargonium Chatsworth Commonage. psammophilum which, as we later found out, has been described but Here we got to know the incredibly not published yet. We have visited knowledgeable ‘Ladies of the site only once and found 15 Chatsworth Working for Water’ Red Listed species at the time. team, who proudly escorted us It really should be interesting in to their site with its very special spring! Atlantis Sand Fynbos vegetation. We found 25 Red Listed species FOTH CREW assisted at Blaauw- A possible new species of Babiana growing here in unbelievable berg Nature Reserve by identifying 32 found in Jacobsbaai. abundance. The entire site is species for seed collection pur- poses. It is always amazing to see what comes up after the ongoing clearing of invasive alien plants on the area below the Reserve. For example, we found Geissorhiza humilis (Vulnerable) coming up bravely amongst a miniature forest of Port Jackson seedlings.

The widening of the N7 is a cause of great concern to nature conservationists, as it impacts on the vegetation along the road, particularly at Baas Aries Fontein (which has 21 Red Listed species) and Kalbaskraal (which has 33 Red Listed species found by FOTH CREW). Baas Aries Fontein has had the alien vegetation removed FOTH and the Chatsworth community joining forces in the field. lately and it is a joy to see the natural veld come back.

Our focus later in the year shifted to sites in the Stellenbosch area. We worked at Jan S. Marais Park in Stellenbosch, on a site in Raithby (on the way to Somerset West) and also at Wemmersvlei (on the way to Franschhoek). This last site proved incredibly interesting and species-rich as it has a wetland as well as Swartland Alluvium Fynbos going up to the bordering hills with Sandstone Fynbos at the top. It is threatened by development from the closely situated Wemmershoek Village and sand is being removed by the bakkieload by opportunistic builders in the area. On a positive note, it is being looked after Lampranthus schlechteri at Wemmershoekvlei. by a very energetic Ecology Officer, Grechard Petersen. We are assisting in providing the for a school. With the help of FOTH Our team consists of a core group necessary data to protect this hacker Sjaak Bok and Prestige of eight people who are dedicated unique site, which is home to Erica College Nature Management to the conservation of our natural alexandri (Critically Endangered), students, they have been busy veld, all becoming increasingly E. bakeri (Critically Endangered) restoring the site. It hosts knowledgeable as the years pass. and Diastella buekii (Critically Swartland Silcrete Renosterveld They are: Gurli Armbruster, Sandra Endangered). We have found with and de Swardt, Veronica Straub, Keith Lampranthus schlechteri (Critically is a rare gem in the vicinity of the Breetzke, Kay Loubser, Ursula Endangered), and Arctotis Tygerberg Hill. A committee will Aldini, Melda Goets and myself. angustifolia var. latifolia (Critically be set up early this year for the Our excursions are on Fridays Endangered) and more than 100 management of the site and a and we have a really wide range species additional to the existing Friends group has been started. of possible sites to visit. All are plant list. As we have not yet been there in spring, there should be One of the highlights of last year welcome! Our thanks go to the much more to find. was an outing to the Piketberg. We Friends of the Tygerberg Hills for have established a plant list and sponsoring our petrol on all these One of our members, Melda Goets, hope to spend more time there in excursions. Many thanks also to together with her son Stefan, were future, staying over weekends to the SANBI CREW team and to involved in saving a site that had make it more effective and worth- the scientists who help us with the been earmarked as a parking lot while. identification of the plants. 33 News from the Fourcade Botanical Group

Caryl Logie

he Fourcade Botanical to succeed. Development and alien David to be sure of the identifica- TGroup has leapt into their acacias lead to stabilisation and tion. This we did with Clayton’s help second decade with CREW with thus the demise of the plants. on a very windy, wet day and with great enthusiasm and commit- the co-operation of our St Francis ment. We have recorded new The discovery of a Hermannia spe- Bay Post Office, David received the populations of eight threatened cies on Hopewell Private Nature specimens in good condition and plant species and 10 species of Reserve near Port Elizabeth was produced his striking plate. conservation concern. We have another very exciting find. We vis- also located one undescribed ited the area in October with Ismail Our group spent a very happy few Ebrahim and members of the Port species. Who knows what will days in the Baviaanskloof working Elizabeth CREW group led by Clay- be added to that list when we on a plant list for the owner of one ton Weatherall-Thomas and while receive the identifications of our of the farms and also recording there, came across a Hermannia many pressed specimens! Amphiglossa callunoides (Vulner- we hadn’t seen before. David able) and Cussonia gamtoosensis Perhaps one of the most excit- Gwynne-Evans is our man when it (Rare) throughout the kloof. ing finds was the endangered comes to Hermannias so we sent Hyobanche robusta growing in him my photo of the little beauty. Our days in the veld with the chil- deep sand. It is Red Listed as En- Although it certainly wouldn’t earn dren are always rewarding as dangered, as there are only five me first prize in a photographic they so enjoy being out there and known localities (perhaps six now!) competition, it was clear enough discovering new things. CREW and they are threatened by invad- for David to be fairly sure it was has opened our eyes and those of ing alien acacias and coastal devel- Hermannia urceolata, first collected the children to so many wonderful opment. Although its habitat looks in 1908, but never described. The things around us. In this small way, inhospitable, it needs periodic dis- next step was to return to Hopewell we hope to help conserve our spe- turbances to its dune home in order and collect good specimens for cial environment.

Hyobanche robusta growing in deep 34 Keeping an eye on their insect for the scavenger hunt. sand. Contributions of the Overberg Lowlands Conservation Trust to CREW work in the Overberg’s renosterveld

Odette Curtis Director, Overberg Lowlands Conservation Trust www.overbergrenosterveld.org.za

Overberg spring surveys Polhillia and Wiborgiella sur- walked the Freek Botha River veys at Uitvlugt farm and sur- course in search of Polhillia brevi- The spring of 2013 was filled with rounds calyx and Wiborgiella bowieana many exciting finds, with new farms populations. The survey was a opening up for us to survey and Polhillia brevicalyx and Wiborgiella huge success, and we found over more landowners becoming inter- bowieana (previously known as 50 individuals of each species, as ested in the work we are doing for Lebeckia bowieana) are two of the well as a new population of Gladi- renosterveld conservation. Along most threatened species in the olus vandermerwei (Endangered). with our American volunteer, Evan Overberg’s lowlands. Until recently, We intend to make this an annual Eifler, we surveyed a total of 30 P. brevicalyx was only known from survey to improve our efforts in renosterveld patches, 10 of which two sites on a single farm (about understanding the real status of were completely new sites. 20 individuals) and W. bowieana these severely threatened species. from only three populations (< 50 Please do let us know if you would Our surveys resulted in the discov- individuals). These two species oc- like to join us on the 2014 survey! ery of several previously unknown cur together on Uitvlugt farm (on populations of special plants, the western side of the tar road Caledon surveys with new including: Gladiolus vandermer- between Bredasdorp and Swellen- CREW volunteers and iSpot- wei (Endangered), Gladiolus ab- dam). Because of our serious con- ters breviatus (Vulnerable), Moraea cern for the survival of these two debilis (Endangered), M. tricolor species, particularly P. brevicalyx, After a talk to the Greyton Con- (Endangered), M. melanops (En- we decided to conduct a survey servation Society on the OLCT’s dangered), Lotononis villosa (Vul- specifically for them. work in the Overberg, we accrued nerable), Leucadendron coriaceum some new volunteers: Mike Gould- (Endangered), Notobubon (previ- In October 2013, the Overberg ing, Klaus Wehrlin and Stuart ously Peucedanum) striatum (Near Lowlands Conservation Trust Shearer. We had some fantastic Threatened), Aspalathus acan- (OLCT) and CREW volunteers from surveys on Greyton Commonage thophylla (Vulnerable), A. rosea Cape Town (led by Ismail Ebrahim) lands and the Ertjiesdam area as (Endangered), Haworthia mirabilis, and Swellendam (Flora Cameron) well as a Bioblitz day on the Klein Ficinia overbergensis (new species, joined forces with Uitvlugt’s farm Swartberg with CREW Cape Town proposed status: Near Threatened), manager, Matthias Streicher, and and Tony Rebelo (who gave excel- Aristea teretifolia (Endangered), Hesperantha fibrosa (Vulnerable) and Hesperantha muirii (Endan- gered). This data is all being made avail- able to CREW and we will be contributing to revisions of species accounts, particularly the new spe- cies recently described in Curtis, O.E., Stirton, C.H., Muasya, A.M. 2013. A conservation and floristic assessment of poorly known spe- cies rich quartz–silcrete outcrops within Rûens Shale Renosterveld (Overberg, Western Cape), with taxonomic descriptions of five new species South African Journal of Bototany 87: 99 –111. Polhillia brevicalyx survey team making sure they get the plant in focus. 35 lent demonstrations on how to use iSpot). This is very exciting, as the Caledon area has been largely ne- glected for some time—and there is so much to explore here!

Highlights from these areas include Mike Goulding’s find of the second known population of the new (re- cently described) Romulea pillosa in the Greyton area (previously discovered by Cameron McMaster near Riviersonderend). Ertjiesdam specials included Leucospermum cordifolium, Leucadendron tereti- folium, Notobubon pungens and Drosanthemum flavum. Our Klein Swartberg Bioblitz started at the top of the mountain in the fynbos and ended in the renosterveld at the foothills, where we were lucky enough to see the beauti- ful Moraea lurida. The day was filled with interesting finds (see http://www.ispot.org.za/taxonomy/ term/10876?page=2 for the Bioblitz finds uploaded thus far). Polhillia brevicalyx: on the brink of extinction.

The great pincushions quest of 2013

Christopher Michael Johnson

or the past three years I have needed to collect almost 40 taxa in Fbeen conducting research on a single field season spanning only the genus Leucospermum at the four months. University of Stellenbosch. My microevolutionary studies focus While searching iSpot for locali- on pollinator shifts between ties, I noticed that Di Turner, the closely related taxa, extreme ex- fearless leader of the Outramps amples of unique adaptations to CREW group, had posted nearly pollinators, and the co-existence all the pincushion species growing of species through pollinator in the triangle between Riversdale, partitioning. Following my PhD George and Oudtshoorn. I contact- upgrade, I had the ambitious ed Di and the rest is history. The idea of looking at the big picture following species were collected to see how influential pollinators with the help of the Outramps: Leu- have been at driving diversity of cospermum mundi, L. saxatile, L. the entire pincushion genus. winteri, L. erubescens, L. glabrum, L. royenifolium, L. wittebergense, L. This gave me the excuse to travel Leucospermum profugum, one of the hamatum (Rare), L. secundifolium species found with the help of CREW the country and see with my own (Rare), L. muirii (Rare), L. praecox volunteers. eyes all the incredible members of (Vulnerable) and L. pluridens (Vul- Leucospermum. However, tracking nerable). down all the taxa in such a short highlight of the trip. Not only is this period of time was a daunting task. Although each species is spec- species restricted to slopes deep Although I had collected a number tacular in its own right, finding within the Doringrivier Wilderness 36 of species in my previous studies, I Leucospermum hamatum was the Area but it displays extraordinary adaptations for rodent pollination, saw this interesting species being geriaceae). Due to its extensive use which was confirmed from live ro- visited by Malachite . in traditional medicine and magic, dent trappings. The excitement of this geophytic species is under finding this species was indescrib- CREW has played an enormous immense pressure from over- able. role in facilitating my research and harvesting. Many wild populations it would have been impossible to have been decimated, with an es- Later in the season, I was able to complete my studies without them. timated 3 410 lignotubers (totalling tag along with Ismail Ebrahim and Although the role of CREW is to 2 380 kg) traded at Durban’s Vic- the Cape Town CREW group to monitor and conserve our plant toria and Isipingo medicinal plant survey another rare pincushion, diversity, their role in assisting re- markets during July of 1992 alone. Leucospermum profugum, along searchers like me cannot be over- the Eskom trail in the Piketberg. We emphasised. According to the IUCN Red List, it is considered to be vulnerable to extinction, with 20% of its habitat lost over the last three generations (150 years) and an additional 20% population decline due to harvest- University of Zululand students ing for the traditional medicine mar- ket. Between Durban and Hluhluwe monitoring Stangeria eriopus many populations have been lost due to sugar cane and Eucalyptus population at Ongoye Forest plantations. These trends of de- cline are predicted to persist in the (Zululand) foreseeable future. The proposed N2 highway extension through the Theo Mostert Eastern Cape Wild Coast will fur- ther threaten many subpopulations.

arly one rainy Sunday morn- and GIS data supplied by Sharon Traditionally, Stangeria eriopus Eing in October 2013, a group Louw from Ezemvelo KZN Wild- (known as imFingo in isiZulu) is of enthusiastic conservation- life (EKZNW), visited the On- used by the Zulu people as protec- tion against lightning strikes and minded people set out for On- goye Forest Reserve in order to renders the human body invisible to goye Forest in a battle against gather data on the Natal Grass harmful spirits. Zulu herbalists use the scourge of cycad poaching. Cycad, Stangeria eriopus. Less dramatically speaking, a it to treat congestion, poisoning, group of students and personnel Stangeria eriopus is taxonomically high blood pressure, headaches, from the University of Zululand, unique in that it is the only cycad flatulence and arthritis. Chemically, together with Suvarna Parbhoo species within its genus and the the leaves and roots contain the from CREW, armed with maps only genus within its family (Stan- mildly toxic pyrrolizidine, while

The University of Zululand team. Stangeria eriopus. 37 the seeds contain the highly toxic formation on a regular basis and to cyasin. repeat counts over time in order to capture general trends in the sub- This slow growing and long-lived populations. Early detection of sig- species is restricted to the grass- nificant changes in the population lands and forests of the eastern demography will hopefully act as coastal belt of southern Africa, timely warnings to change manage- ranging from the Bathhurst district ment and conservation strategies. in the Eastern Cape (33° 30’ S), to Kosi Bay in KwaZulu-Natal (27° S), The team was initially overwhelmed and just across the by the high numbers of Stangeria border. Male and female cones of plants. However, we soon noted this gymnosperm are carried on sharp contrasts in population densi- separate plants (dioecious) and ties north and south of a dirt road are wind- and insect-pollinated. close to the reserve border. Such Endangered Leopard Magpie Moth Observed differences in growth sharp contrasts may be cause for (Zerenopsis lepida). forms between plants from forest concern in terms of the population and grassland habitats seem to be health and should be investigated. Leopard Magpie Moth during the environmentally induced, with no Although the road does not seem fieldwork session. These day-flying clear genetic, hereditary basis for to act as a physical barrier to plant moths have a close relationship the distinctions. collectors, it may be seen by the with Stangeria eriopus, which is local community as the unofficial one of its host food plants. Al- The aim of the expedition was to northern boundary of the reserve. though Leopard Magpie Moths also supplement the existing data sets Should this be the case, it may feed on other angiosperm plant of EKZNW. This forms part of a be an indication of the rapid rate species, the first three instar stages joint project between EKZNW, of resource depletion within the of the larvae depend on Stangeria CREW and the University of Zu- ‘neighbouring unprotected’ areas, and other cycad species for suc- luland to monitor trends in the which in turn will necessitate that Ongoye population of Stangeria the impact of harvesting on the cessful development. The moths eriopus. Individual plants were Ongoye subpopulations will have to absorb chemical compounds (mac- counted and a range of information be addressed urgently. In addition, rozamin) from Stangeria and other was captured for each plant, includ- this road also acts as a firebreak cycad species and sequester the ing GPS locality, sex, number of and has an effect on the veld fire compounds in their bodies as part cones, presence (signs) of Leopard regime north and south of it. of a chemical defence mechanism Magpie Moths(Zerenopsis lepida) against predation (aposematism). and recent veld fires. Although only The team was extremely fortunate These compounds are toxic, car- a small section of the reserve was to observe both caterpillar and cinogenic and mutagenic to its covered, we hope to add some in- adult life stages of the Endangered predators.

Conservation in action: BotSoc as partner and supporter of CREW

Catherine Browne (Executive Assistant, Botanical Society of South Africa)

onservation is one of the involved in a variety of critical Looking at BotSoc and its current Ckey focus areas of the Bo- conservation projects but one conservation involvement: tanical Society of South Africa. we simply can’t do without is • A comprehensive conserva- BotSoc’s mission is to win the CREW. tion strategy was accepted by hearts, minds, and material sup- Over the past year, BotSoc final- the BotSoc council in February port of individuals and organi- ised its conservation strategy and 2013. sations, wherever they may be, fundraising plan for 2014–2017 to • The National Strategy for Plant for the conservation, cultiva- raise funds to support conserva- Conservation development is tion, study and wise use of the tion initiatives such as its partner underway. Following the IUCN indigenous flora and vegetation programmes of CREW and Groen World Conservation conference 38 of southern Africa. BotSoc is Sebenza. last year, BotSoc has teamed up with SANBI to drive the South African strategy, which will link with the Global Strat- egy for Plant Conservation of the Convention on Biological Diversity. • In addition, and as an extension of work with the Groen Seben- za jobs fund, BotSoc is devel- oping a jobs fund to create new posts for extension officers who will be equipped to help with crucial conservation projects in cities. • BotSoc has struck an innova- tive partnership with WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Soci- 100 highly threatened plants in the ety of South Africa) to offer Bot- country—one for every year of Bot- Soc members, branches and Soc’s centenary—with the aim of other interested parties training highlighting the factors threatening to understand the processes of their survival and raising aware- Environmental Impact Assess- ness of required conservation ments in order to build much action. The book also showcases needed capacity in this area. some of the people actively in- • As an initial signatory of the volved in the conservation of South CAPE (Cape Action for Peo- Africa’s floral heritage. ple and the Environment) Implementation Committee BotSoc supports the Groen Seben- established a decade ago, in za Programme, a jobs fund part- June 2012 BotSoc signed up nership with South African govern- for the second phase of this ment and the Development Bank of fundamental project that works Africa, managed by SANBI. There to conserve the Fynbos . are 40 environmental/biodiversity This is a wonderful partnership organisations in partnership with to be involved with. SANBI creating sustainable job • BotSoc maintains a close work- opportunities for 800 unemployed ing relationship with SANBI to graduates and matriculants. Bot- reach the common goals of Soc hosts five interns who are Some of the Woolworths re-usable looking after, understanding being trained as para-ecologists shopping bags that was produced in and preserving our unique natu- and who work within the CREW partnership with BotSoc. ral heritage. Programme. Over a two and a half year period, these interns will be BotSoc continues to work with given skills and training to work in “These lovely bags will be available CREW to raise funds to support the conservation. BotSoc also funded programme. In 2013 BotSoc sent a weeklong para-ecologist training in selected Woolworths stores and out a Direct Mail Appeal to mem- workshop for Groen Sebenza in- online to purchase and show your bers, sharing the story of CREW terns in October 2013. support”, said BotSoc Executive and the work being done. The Director Zaitoon Rabaney. “We are fundraising drive was well received We are proud to say that in partner- very excited to be partnering with and supported and the initiative ship with Woolworths, re-usable Woolworths in this venture and has brought in over R300 000 for shopping bags have been designed hope that the bags will help spread in support of CREW and are avail- CREW. Thank you again for all do- BotSoc’s central message—know, nations and support! able in stores. The ‘botanical bags’ champion wild flower conservation grow and protect South Africa’s Another CREW project that Bot- on a national basis and highlight flora—ever more widely.” Soc supported this year was the some of South Africa’s most threat- The bags are a great way to sup- production of Plants in Peril. In ened plants. Made by a community port the efforts of CREW and cre- celebration of CREW’s 10th an- project, the bags feature informa- niversary and BotSoc’s centenary, tion on Critically Endangered plants ate further awareness of BotSoc, CREW launched this publication in South Africa and offer methods SANBI and the CREW Programme at the BotSoc centenary fundrais- to help their conservation. We are and the work they do to conserve ing gala dinner in September 2013. grateful to Woolworths for this op- our country’s unique and precious This coffee table book profiles portunity. flora and biodiversity. 39 2013 CREW Workshop: highlights from a student perspective

Bronwyn Egran, Alvin Mapatha & Seloba Chuene

lvin Mapatha and Seloba conservation. I really enjoyed the probably the oldest inhabitants in AChuene are botany students presentation on grasslands by Prof. grasslands (≥ 1 000 years). I felt from Limpopo. They enthusiasti- Van Wyk (University of Pretoria) it was vital and informative, as we cally embraced the challenge where we learned so much about (CREW Limpopo) are currently of travelling by public transport grassland diversity and ecology. fighting tooth and nail to conserve from Mankweng to Eshowe to The most helpful presentation was one of our own pristine grasslands bolster the numbers of Limpopo by Mike Watkeys (University of near Haenertsburg. My proposal to CREW representatives at the KwaZulu-Natal) who explained how present one of the anticipated pa- 2013 CREW workshop. to interpret and record the geol- pers from my Masters project was ogy of an area with respect to the welcomed. This is excellent news Alvin is a botany intern at the Larry CREW datasheets. This will be as young researchers from various Leach Herbarium, University of very valuable when trying to de- institutions should be afforded the Limpopo and in his words, “The cide on the soil and rock type in an opportunity to present their projects CREW Workshop was meaning- area. The quiz was a lot of fun and and valuable comments can be ful because we learned so much, it gave us all the chance to share given to them by experts in the field including the use of identification ideas.” at such workshops. A final point keys, more about the Millennium that I learned, one that I shall be Seed Bank project, and the work According to Seloba, who is com- incorporating into my project, was that CREW is doing in different pleting his M.Sc. research on Eu- the important use of the classical parts of the country. By going phorbia clivicola at the University method of cladistics.” of Limpopo, the CREW workshop through the Kniphofia key, we re- Limpopo CREW members grate- alised that although we thought was invaluable. He enthuses, “Per- sonally the highlight of the whole fully acknowledge the sponsorship was difficult, the keys workshop was Prof. Braam van of the Limpopo branch of the Bo- can be the easiest thing. For me, Wyk’s presentation, Grassland Di- tanical Society of Southern Africa Livhuwani Nkuna’s talk about the versity and Ecology. He highlighted for sponsoring all transport costs Millennium Seed Bank Partner- the following: a) total approximate and miscellaneous extras for the ship in South Africa was the most grassland diversity (2 945 species), students. Alvin and Seloba have al- interesting, as I now understand b) the Savanna Biome is the rich- ready applied the skills they gained how it can be used as a tool to est in fauna, c) the determinants at the workshop by assisting in the conserve threatened plants in our are temperature, fire and water fight to conserve the rare Euphor- country. Seed banking is a simple tables, d) the response of peren- bia groenewaldii located in a de- thing to practise and has many nials to fire, and e) underground veloping rural area in Mankweng, advantages, particularly for ex situ trees (geoxylic suffrutices) are Limpopo.

40 Participants of the 2013 CREW Workshop held in Eshowe (photograph: Graham Grieve). Groen Sebenza intern: Mahlatse Mogale

developed my love for nature Iat a very young age when I used to play in the yard and rode my bicycle through the veld in Polokwane, then still known as Pietersburg. I studied at the University of Lim- popo and obtained my B.Sc. de- gree in Botany in 2010, and my B.Sc. honours degree in 2011 with a mini dissertation on the medicinal properties of the saponins found in Helinus integrifolius.

I was selected for the Groen Se- benza project in May 2013 and I was appointed by BotSoc to start working for SANBI as an intern at the Pretoria National Botanical Gar- den. So far I have enjoyed my time at this National Botanical Garden. It is a great opportunity to experi- Mahlatse in the field. ence what it is like to be working in nature conservation and to learn new skills. I have already been on Nature Reserve to attend one of the field and one of the toughest a number of field trips around the the fascinating Plant Specialist camping trips had to be hiking up country, including the Mpumalanga Group (PSG) meetings. It has not the Blouberg Mountain in Bochum, Swadini Resort and Buffelskloof been all fun and games working in Limpopo.

Groen Sebenza intern: Hlengiwe Mtshali

s a student at the University Aof the Free State (Qwaqwa campus), my Honours and Masters degree projects dealt with the classification of South African wetlands vegetation. The aims were to determine the extent to which environmental factors can explain patterns in plant species composition, and to establish which plant species serve as environmental indica- tors in wetlands. This in turn can assist in conservation and man- agement of these natural eco- Hlengiwe Mtshali at Ntsikeni Nature Reserve. systems, since they are much more susceptible to alien spe- cies invasion with indigenous Early in 2013, when the SANBI ployed graduates and matriculants species consequently becoming Groen Sebenza Programme pre- to develop skills in the biodiversity more threatened. sented the opportunity for unem- sector, I saw this as a chance for 41 me to apply my educational skills in sustaining what is left of our natural resources. I applied for more than 10 vacancies and I was fortunate in that BotSoc/CREW called me for an interview. In June 2013, I was offered an opportunity to join the programme—one of the best things that has ever happened to me. The programme offers great potential for personal growth as well as up- grading and enhancing my skills.

During the past seven months that I have been with CREW, I have com- piled identification sheets for threat- ened KwaZulu-Natal Aloe species, threatened plants in the Dumisa The rare Emplectanthus cordatus (photograph: Sharon Louw). area, and Data Deficient species. Work is both challenging and in- excitement and lots of experience ping stone to integrating conserva- teresting. The challenging part is tion in a real way into my daily life, finding literature and pictures, then as well as some disappointments. future education and career. I can translating plant descriptions from I feel very privileged to be part of now safely say that my knowledge Latin to English. CREW and I am excited about the about threatened species has in- My highlights since the inception of opportunity this provides for me creased. Thank you to the Groen the internship have been meeting to obtain a fundamental under- Sebenza Programme and sponsor- the national CREW team and at- standing of conservation. I intend ing organisations for this amazing tending the BotSoc Groen Sebenza to use this opportunity as a step- opportunity. para-ecologist training course in the Western Cape. This course was aimed at providing important work-related skills as well as creat- ing a community of Groen Sebenza Groen Sebenza intern: interns working on similar projects. The course offered experiences Dewidine van der beyond work skills and personal Colff development.

Amongst other tasks, those was born and grew up in Cape I enjoy most involve joining ITown and currently live in CREW volunteers in searching Eersteriver. I attended the for threatened plants. On our University of Stellenbosch and two day trip to Zululand in recently completed my M.Sc. November, we were rewarded degree in Ecology, in collabo- with many great plants— ration with the University of including our target species Aloe Pretoria. saundersiae, Acalypha entumenica, My project focused on the biotic Brachystelma modestum, (fungal and arthropod) exchanges Leucospermum gerrardii and in forest margins between a native Emplectanthus cordatus—even and an invasive tree in the Knysna though the weather conditions forest complex. In a previous Dewidine van der Colff in the field. were very bad. It was cold, rainy study, I assessed the effects of fire and misty, which made fieldwork age on renosterveld species diver- very difficult. The second day was sity in a small fragment. Currently I was initially introduced to CREW not as good as the first day and I am a Groen Sebenza intern in by a fellow aspiring botanist, Anina while we were busy searching for the CREW Programme based at Heystek, a CREW member from Emplectanthus cordatus, a rare Kirstenbosch National Botanical the Friends of the Tygerberg Hills species only known to occur at Garden. I’m excited to be part of (FOTH) group. Since then I tried to Dlinza and Entumeni forests, I this organisation as it captures the attend as many of their field trips as slipped and sprained my foot. The true essence of active and proac- possible. In 2011 I realised CREW’s 42 past months have been filled with tive conservation. worth when I started a project in one of the Swartland Shale Renos- Programme was initiated which of. My highlights so far were seeing terveld fragments near Wellington. created this wonderful opportunity species that are extinct in the wild I needed to identify vast numbers to give us, future ecologists/conser- such as Erica verticillata, attending of plants and as a new botany stu- vationists, the opportunity to prac- the winter and summer school pro- dent, the task seemed immense. I tice all that we have been taught grammes in Mamre, Worcester and invited CREW to the site and they and expand our knowledge. I have Nieuwoudtville, and learning basic assisted me in the identification of only been working for a few weeks botany. This year started with a many plant species. The relation- and I am very impressed with my bang and field trips to various local- ships with the landowner and other supervisor and colleague (Ismail ities are already being organised. stakeholders such as CapeNature Ebrahim and Anri Marais respec- I am very excited to be working on are still going strong and CREW tively), their dedication to their work a small project in Mamre where volunteers still visit the site regu- and their love for what they do. I’m we will be interviewing some of the larly. Since my first fieldtrip with grateful for this opportunity and older residents who were born and CREW, I knew somehow, in my look forward to working with the grew up in Mamre and are skilled in development as an ecologist, my other CREW volunteer groups and identifying local indigenous plants path would cross this organisation to botanise with these wonderful for medicinal use. Short video clips again. Then the Groen Sebenza people for the rest of my life. will be filmed of them. I am also aiming to published all the informa- tion in a small booklet, something I hope to finish before the end of this year.

Groen Sebenza intern: I am looking forward to proving myself by testing my abilities and Anri Marais working on a small project this year. fter matriculating in 2010, I Aspent a ‘gap year’ gaining experience as a volunteer in my intended field of study, Emer- gency Medical Care. In 2012, I Groen Sebenza intern: started my first year at the Cape Peninsula University of Tech- Karin Herman nology (Bellville campus) but I quickly discovered that I was not ready for that, physically as well come from Mamre, a small as emotionally. Itown with fantastic historical sites and a rich natural biodi- So I gave up the course and start- versity. I have always liked the ed looking for something that I ac- summer, as I enjoy outdoor life. tually have a passion for and enjoy When I was in primary school, I doing. That is when I realised that I Anri Marais in the field. was part of the adventure club have always had a genuine passion and this was where my love of for nature, the outdoors and ani- nature developed. mals. Growing up in Riverlands (a During the past nine months that small town in the Swartland), I was I’ve worked here, I have learned so I always knew I wanted to teach literally surrounded by nature and much that it almost seems unreal! people something important and Riverlands Nature Reserve is with- Never did I think I would gain so this opportunity with SANBI is help- in walking distance of my house. much knowledge and experience in ing me achieve my goal. When I such a short period and I still have applied for the Groen Sebenza When I heard about the Groen a little less than two years left to Programme, I had some basic Sebenza Programme and saw that work as a Groen Sebenza intern. experience relevant to the job they were going to employ 800 description. I did early childhood Working with the members of the incubants nationally, I thought I’d development and took kids from CREW team is a very rewarding definitely give it a chance! An op- schools in surrounding areas on experience. It involves research, portunity like this does not come LandCare camps to do alien clear- across often, especially when the monitoring our country’s most ing with them and educate them only formal qualification you have is threatened plant species, collecting about the environment. I knew that a matric certificate. Luckily, my ap- and pressing specimens, environ- this experience would be beneficial plication was successful. I went for mental education, data capturing for getting the job. the interview and was selected to and so much more. An added bo- work as a Project Assistant under nus is that I get to travel and see My highlight for the year was being BotSoc for the CREW Programme. places I have never even thought appointed as a para-ecologist even 43 though I did not initially know exact- ly what it involved. I never thought that working with CREW could be so rewarding. The job gave me the opportunity to fly in an aeroplane for the first time when we went to Pretoria for the Groen Sebenza induction. Going out on field trips with CREW volunteers are always exciting because you get to see amazing places and realise why you have to contribute to conserv- ing our beautiful wild flowers in the Fynbos Biome. I’m currently busy with the Eco Club at our school in Mamre but my mission is to register the whole school as an Eco School with WESSA.

Thank you BotSoc, SANBI and CREW for this wonderful opportu- nity. Karin Herman learning more about plants.

Groen Sebenza intern: Marius Lombard

k is Marius Lombard van ETouwsrivier, ‘n klein dorpie in die Karoo. My liefde vir die natuur het ontstaan deurdat ek in hierdie klein dorpie tussen die berge groot geword het. Die meeste van my tyd het ek saam met vriende in die berge deurgebring en die natuur geniet. My broer se vriend het my vertel van CREW en dat dit ‘n gulde ge- leentheid vir my sal wees om deel van die projek te word.

Ek het vir die werk aansoek ge- doen en was kort daarna geskakel en genooi om ‘n onderhoud by te Marius Lombard learning more about plants. woon. ‘n Paar weke later was ek in kennis gestel dat ek suksesvol was en die werk gekry het. Tans plante en saad en om plantmaterial vantevore was nie en dinge en werk ek in Worcester by die Karoo te pers vir die herbarium. Ek doen plante te sien waarvan ek nog nooit Woestyn Nasionale Botaniese Tuin verder ook monitering van plante in eens gehoor het nie. My heel groot- as deel van die internskap program die tuin en in die natuurlike veld. In ste hoogtepunt was om Kirsten- van CREW. die kwekery help ek om die plante bosch Nasionale Botaniese Tuin te nat te gooi en om onkruid tussen besoek. Deel van my werk is omgewings- hulle uit te trek. Wanneer enigie- opvoeding. Dit behels lesse aan mand in die tuine my nodig het, is Ek kan nie wag om te sien wat die leerlinge oor die omgewing, plante, ek ook behulpsaam en gretig om te jaar vir my inhou nie en sien uit na biodiversiteit, asook algemene in- help waar ek kan. al die nuwe belewenisse. Ek is ook ligting oor die omgewing, deurdat opgewonde oor nuwe ervaringe as ons hulle die tuin in neem. Verder My hoogtepunte sover was om ‘n CREW werker wat sover baie 44 help ek met die versameling van plekke te besoek waar ek nog nooit lekker is. He is quoted as saying, “It is im- Groen Sebenza intern: portant to note that if we run out of these plants we would not be able Mxolisi Ngongoma to help people. It is wrong to har- vest in bags, we should only take ondoland has one of the enough to treat or help people.” Phighest number of endemic In most areas of Emabaleni it is evi- and also endangered plant spe- dent that overharvesting is a major cies in the world. Emabaleni threat to the survival of the medi- (an area near the Mtentu River cal and charm plants with many mouth) is one of many places in of them having been dug up and Pondoland where you can find trees de-barked. These plants grow indigenous plants that are useful mostly in grassland areas, so with and valuable to the people who overgrazing and frequent burning of live there. grasslands the affected species are These plants are an important struggling to survive. component of traditional mpondo During the winter months, burning Mxolisi Ngongoma (photograph: Gra- medicine and charms, locally ham Grieve). known as ‘amayeza’. Not only are of grasslands is generally uncon- the plants used to treat illnesses, trolled and areas like Egobodweni they are also used for cultural pur- and Emabaleni are always vulner- Until two years ago, I knew nothing poses, such as protection against able to frequent fires. These places about SANBI, as I have a degree witchcraft, and in religious ceremo- are rich in small grassland species in Applied Communications Man- nies, rituals and customs. such as Igwaqani (Watsonia densi- agement from the University of flora) and amaqhobo (Eriosemop- Fort Hare. In July 2012, Sinegugu These plants are well known and sis subanisophylla). Some of the Zikulu took a group of us on a hike in high demand. Because the popular endemic plants that can from Mthentu to Msikaba on the amaPondo know where to find be found at Emabaleni are Ibhulu Wild Coast and he taught us a lot them, they are harvested all the (Senecio rhyncholaenus), Umsintsi about our environment and the time. Very few of these species are ( caffra),Umgadankawu challenges we face. This sparked formally conserved in local nature (Albizia adianthifolia), Umny- my interest in nature conservation. reserves (Oribi Gorge, Mkhambathi amati (Loxostylis alata), Iphamba Because I come from Emabaleni, I and Umtamvuna nature reserves). (Polystachya pubescens) and am concerned about the situation The plants that grow outside the Umqwhetayo (Morella serrata). in our area. I hope that through my protected areas are under tre- However, because these plants involvement in the Groen Sebenza mendous pressure from excessive are being overharvested, they are Programme I can raise awareness harvesting as well as overgrazing now becoming scarce and some of of the threats to our plants and per- and too frequent burning of the them can no longer be found in the haps assist the community in tak- grasslands. area. Many of the remaining trees ing action to conserve them. I also have been de-barked, which slows plan to study further in the field of Harvesting has become the main down their growth and may eventu- environmental management and problem in recent years. In the ally kill them. conservation. past, healers would harvest suf- ficient plants for their needs but now people harvest unsustainable amounts to sell material at the muthi markets. In Emabaleni there used to be many different endemic species but overharvesting has all but decimated their populations. Sadly, the current harvesters are not traditional herbalists, but rather people who believe that they know the uses of these plants and they glean without thinking about the next generation.

Concern about this kind of harvest- ing is expressed by a traditional healer, Mr Mashona Dlamini from iSigidi village, in the book, Medici- Pondoland CREWites mentoring the Groen Sebenza interns (photograph: Graham nal and charm plants of Pondoland. Grieve). 45 Groen Sebenza training camp

Liezel Knight

n October 2013, CREW hosted boost”, said Anri Marais, a Groen same instruction, namely to pose Ia week long para-ecology Sebenza intern at CREW. Each in a chair. The participant, the only workshop for Groen Sebenza in- day of the workshop started with one to know the posture, had to in- terns. Groen Sebenza is a SANBI an ‘Oopmaak’ event that reflected struct the other two players to strike initiative that provides much on the previous day’s activities, the same pose without being able needed work experience to both which was either in the form of a to see the players. This had hilari- high school and tertiary educa- drama, dance, musical or other ous results and demonstrated, in a tion graduates. Eighteen interns form of entertainment. “What was fun way, how mentors and interns from five provinces descended quite amazing for me was that all sometimes communicate. “I have on Kogelberg Farm to learn a in the group were so different to learnt so much about communica- host of personal, technical and each other, but yet the same” said tion skills. It has built and improved soft skills to prepare them for Marcus from Indigo Development my self-confidence”, said Sethu and Change. “We might differ in the working environment. from the Eastern Cape. skin colour, personalities, gender or This was a wonderful opportunity, place, but we all came to learn, and One of the main reasons for host- as this was first time employment that is what we did.” All activities ing the workshop, according to for many of them. demonstrated real-life working situ- one of the facilitators, Uté Schmie- ations, which posed questions such del, was to create an opportunity The diverse and enthusiastic as, would your friend/colleague for trainers and trainees to learn group engaged in several activi- jump in if you got stuck and needed from, and understand each other’s ties that would demonstrate their help? Would you help a colleague challenges, thus learning to work social and interpersonal skills. and friend out if they needed as- together constructively. A roleplay “The challenging part of this work- sistance? Can you take the lead/ demonstrating a parent-child rela- shop was to actually get over my initiative in a project? And, can you tionship dynamic between mentor fear of speaking up, and this has manage stress and pressure? For and intern even affected one of the been a great opportunity for me to instance, in ‘Blind Chicken’ one facilitators. “This workshop has up- give my self-confidence a major participant gave two players the lifted me from being a child and a

46 Groen Sebenza interns at the first training camp in Grabouw. bossy parent character to an adult technical tasks by far was learning mentors and facilitators were also professional”, said Vathiswa from how to facilitate a workshop. Three sincerely thanked for offering their CREW. participants volunteered to act as time, genuine interest and atten- facilitators, while the rest acted as tion, and were each given a small Interns were also taught valuable members of a rural community. The token of appreciation. The interns writing skills, including how to nervous facilitators and agitated took many lessons away that would compile professional letters, e- community members showed how help for the rest of their careers. mails, reports, and popular articles, vitally important it is to not only as well as oral skills to conduct “Being part of such a diverse group know your trade (the natural envi- from all over South Africa, and the telephonic conversations. Other ronment), but also your audience. “I training that made it possible, was technical skills that would prepare learned that being a facilitator is not great in getting the right tools to be interns for outdoor activities, field easy, but I now know how to do it”, more productive in the workplace”, work and office work, included said S’bu from Pondoland. basic computer skills (computer lit- said Karin from CREW. “I want to eracy, internet explorer, how to use The course ended with all partici- thank my facilitators”, said S’bu. a tablet and laptop), digital photog- pants receiving certificates for suc- raphy, plant identification skills and cessfully completing and attending We wish to thank the facilitators the use of a GPS. “One outstand- the course. The winner for the of the workshop, Bettina Koelle, ing experience I had was when my best performance in a test cover- Dr Uté Schmiedel, Ismail Ebrahim team and I had to figure out the ing the week’s activities was Anri and Vathiswa Zikishe, BotSoc and GPS waypoints—we laughed a lot Marais (CREW) and for the digital Domitilla Raimondo for their sup- about it”, said Mzamo from Pondo- photography competition, Mahlatse port, and the staff at Kogelberg land. One of the most challenging Mogale (SANBI, Pretoria). The Farm Hostel.

National Research Foundation intern: Khumbu Zulu

he year 2013 with the CREW species name changes, obtain lit- TProgramme was very chal- erature from various old journals (at lenging but interesting. When the library and online), obtain her- I joined CREW, I believed that barium specimens (mostly online), I knew my plants (having had hunt for illustrations with the limited plant studies as a major module literature available, scrutinise local- at university) but I only really got ity information from Bews online to know them during field trips and KwaZulu-Natal herbarium and spending time in the com- cupboards, and obtain permission pany of people who know their to use photographs and illustra- plants and were willing to teach tions from different people. I have and enthuse others. also written an article for SANBI’s PlantzAfrica online series about Finding threatened species was the the Endangered orchid Zeuxine most interesting field experience for africana that we found at its only me. The find that stands out was known locality. Hyobanche fulleri (Critically Endan- gered) where the GPS took us to a After acquiring georeferencing new locality instead of the locality skills, I initiated the CREW KwaZu- we were looking for—this species lu-Natal Data Deficient (DD) project is now known from three localities! and chose to highlight 10 of the 29 DD species in KwaZulu-Natal. Compiling CREW identification Species were selected on the basis sheets has taught me various of their locality so that the CREW skills—from improving my com- groups could assist in finding them. munication skills to refining my I prepared a poster of these 10 investigative skills. While working plant species and presented it at on collating information on Data the KwaZulu-Natal conservation Deficient and Rare species in symposium. Although we were not Khumbu Zulu and Hlengiwe Mtshali re- particular, I had to research plant very successful in finding the 10 cording Hyobanche fulleri at Umzumbe. 47 DD species this field season, the project empowered me and gave Contact details for CREW Group champions CREW office: [email protected] me a sense of ownership within the CREW KwaZulu-Natal Node. Cape Floral Region CFR office and C-Team—Ismail Ebrahim Having a natural flair for working [email protected] with rural communities and having Cape Peninsula—Janeen Nicols and Margaret Kahle Janeen: [email protected] a few DD species previously col- Margaret: [email protected] lected in the rural area of Inanda, I Darling Flora Group—Helene Preston initiated contact with the eThekwini [email protected] Municipality’s stewardship officer to Friends of the Tygerberg Hills—Hedi Stummer assist us in working with the Inanda [email protected] community. It is well known that en- George Outramps—Di Turner [email protected] gaging with various stakeholders in Harmony Flats Working Group—Hayley Wittridge the South African landscape is the [email protected] most effective method for conser- Hottentots Holland—Cecilia Wolmarans vation for future generations. We [email protected] can achieve the goal of threatened Jacobsbaai—Koos and Elise Claassens species conservation by respecting [email protected] Kogelberg—Amida Johns each other’s cultures, beliefs and [email protected] way of life. I believe that some pris- Mamre—Karin Herman tine areas are found in communal [email protected] land, land that CREW has not and Napier—Cameron and Rhoda McMaster may not visit, unless we engage [email protected] with the people living in these are- Nieuwoudtville (Indigo Development and Change)—Bettina Koelle [email protected] as. Working with local communities Piketberg—Angela Langton to learn and guide their best land [email protected] use practices is the way forward for Stilbaai—Janet Naude CREW in terms of finding new plant [email protected] species and localities. Swellendam—Flora Cameron [email protected] Worcester—Tom Jordaan [email protected] Eastern Cape Eastern Cape office—Vathiswa Zikishe [email protected] Port Elizabeth—Clayton Weatherall-Thomas [email protected] St Francis/Fourcade Botanical group—Caryl Logie [email protected] KwaZulu-Natal KwaZulu-Natal office and A-Team—Suvarna Parbhoo [email protected] Durban—Jocelyn Sutherland [email protected] Dundee—Lynne Ruddel [email protected] Midlands—Nikki Brighton [email protected] Mkhambathini—Alison Young [email protected] Nicholson Botanical Group—Kate Grieve [email protected] Umvoti—Lynda Drogemoller [email protected] Underberg—Julie Braby [email protected] Zululand—Francois du Randt [email protected] Mpumalanga Mpumalanga Plant Specialist Group—Mervyn Lötter [email protected] Limpopo Limpopo—Bronwyn Egan [email protected] 48 Hyobanche fulleri in habitat.