FAUNAL, FLORAL, WETLAND AND AQUATIC ASSESSMENT AS PART OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND AUTHORISATION PROCESS FOR THE PROPOSED THARISA MINE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Prepared for

SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd.

2013

SECTION B – Floral Assessment

Prepared by: Scientific Aquatic Services Report author: S. van Staden (Pr. Sci. Nat) M. de Klerk A. Mileson Report Reference: SAS 213199 Date: November 2013

Scientific Aquatic Services CC CK Reg No 2003/078943/23 Vat Reg. No. 4020235273 91 Geldenhuis Road Malvern East Ext 1 2007 Tel: 011 616 7893 Fax: 011 615 6240 E-mail: [email protected]

SAS 213199 – SECTION B November 2013

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 2. GENERAL SITE SURVEY ...... 1 3. FLORAL ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...... 1 3.1 Red and Orange Data Listed Flora ...... 1 3.2 Vegetation Surveys ...... 2 3.3 Vegetation Index Score ...... 3 4. FLORAL DESCRIPTION ...... 6 4.1 Biome and bioregion ...... 6 4.2 Vegetation Type and Landscape Characteristics ...... 9 4.3 Distribution ...... 11 4.3.1 Marikana Thornveld ...... 11 4.3.2 Moot Plains Bushveld ...... 11 4.3.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld...... 11 4.4 Climate ...... 11 4.4.1 Marikana Thornveld ...... 11 4.4.2 Moot Plains Bushveld ...... 11 4.4.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld...... 12 4.5 Geology and soils ...... 12 4.5.1 Marikana Thornveld ...... 12 4.5.2 Moot Plains Bushveld ...... 12 4.5.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld...... 12 4.6 Conservation ...... 12 4.6.1 Marikana Thornveld ...... 12 4.6.2 Moot Plains Bushveld ...... 13 4.6.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld...... 13 4.7 Dominant Floral Taxa ...... 13 4.7.1 Marikana Thornveld ...... 13 4.7.2 Moot Plains Bushveld ...... 14 4.7.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld...... 15 5. RESULTS OF FLORAL INVESTIGATION ...... 16 5.1 Habitat Unit 1: Transformed Habitat Unit ...... 18 5.2 Habitat Unit 2: Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit ...... 19 5.3 Habitat Unit 3: Scattered Open Bushveld Habitat Unit ...... 22 5.4 Habitat Unit 4: Wetland Habitat Unit ...... 24 5.5 RDL Floral and Protected Tree Status Assessments ...... 25 5.6 Vegetation Index Score ...... 29 5.7 Alien and Invasive Floral Species ...... 29 5.8 Medicinal Plant Species ...... 31 6. SENSITIVITY MAPPING ...... 33 7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 36 7.1 Impact Discussion...... 36

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7.1.1 IMPACT 1: Impact on habitat for floral species ...... 36 7.1.2 IMPACT 2: Impact on floral diversity ...... 40 7.1.3 IMPACT 3: Impact on important floral species ...... 43 7.2 Impact Assessment Conclusion ...... 45 8. RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 46 9. REFERENCES ...... 50 APPENDIX A ...... 51 APPENDIX B ...... 67

List of Figures

Figure 1: Biome associated with the subject property (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006)...... 7 Figure 2: Bioregion associated with the subject property (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006)...... 8 Figure 3: Vegetation types associated with the subject property (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006)...... 10 Figure 4: Habitat units identified within the subject property...... 17 Figure 5: The Transformed Habitat Unit is representative of the majority of the vegetation within the subject property...... 18 Figure 6: The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit, situated towards the centre of the subject property...... 19 Figure 7: Flowering Eulophia streptopetala on the left and Cussonia paniculata on the right as encountered within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit...... 20 Figure 8: The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit...... 22 Figure 9: The Wetland Habitat Unit occurring throughout the subject property...... 24 Figure 10: Sensitivity Map for the subject property...... 35

List of Tables

Table 1: Dominant floral species encountered in the Transformed Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk and landscaping species with a double asterisk...... 19 Table 2: Dominant species encountered in the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk and landscaping species with a double asterisk...... 21 Table 3: Dominant species encountered in the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk...... 23 Table 4: Dominant species encountered in the Wetland Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk...... 25 Table 5: IUCN Red Data List Categories – Version 3.1 as supplied by SANBI ...... 26 Table 6: PRECIS plant list for the QDS 2527CB (Raimondo et al., 2009; SANBI, www.sanbi.org)...... 26

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Table 7: PRECIS plant list for the QDS 2527DA (Raimondo et al., 2009; SANBI, www.sanbi.org)...... 26 Table 8: POC for floral species of concern...... 27 Table 9: Scoring for the Vegetation Index Score ...... 29 Table 10: Vegetation Index Score ...... 29 Table 11: Dominant alien vegetation species identified during the general area assessment...... 30 Table 12: Traditional medicinal plants identified during the field assessment. Medicinal applications and application methods are also presented (van Wyk, et al., 1997; van Wyk and Gericke, 2000; van Wyk and Wink, 2004; van Wyk, Oudtshoorn, Gericke, 2009)...... 32 Table 13: A summary of the results obtained from the assessment of floral ecological impacts...... 45 Table 14: Expected floral species list for the QDS 2527CB supplied by the SANBI Precis Database...... 52 Table 15: Expected floral species list for the QDS 2527DA supplied by the SANBI PRECIS Database...... 58

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Scientific Aquatic Services (SAS) was appointed to conduct a faunal, floral, wetland and aquatic ecological assessment as part of the environmental assessment and authorisation process for the proposed changes to surface infrastructure related to the Tharisa Mine, hereafter referred to as the “subject property” (Section A: Figures 2 & 3). The subject property is situated immediately to the north of the N4 roadway within the North West Province. The town of Marikana is situated approximately 3km to the north, and the towns of Lapologang, Tsilong Village and Silver City (formerly Mmaditlhokwa Village) are located approximately 3km to the west, while Rustenburg is located 30km to the northwest. Existing infrastructure within the Mining Rights Area (MRA) include two open pit areas, various waste rock dumps, a plant and office area, return and raw water dams, a storm water dam, a sewage treatment plant (STP) and a Run-of-Mine (ROM) pad, while the proposed development, which forms the focus of this study, includes the expansion of open pit and waste rock dump areas.

2. GENERAL SITE SURVEY

Field assessments were undertaken during November 2013, in order to determine the ecological status of the subject property. A reconnaissance „walkabout‟ was initially undertaken to determine the general habitat types found throughout the subject property and, following this, specific study sites were selected that were considered to be representative of the habitats found within the area, with special emphasis being placed on areas that may potentially support Red Data Listed (RDL) species. Sites were investigated on foot in order identify the occurrence of the dominant plant species and habitat diversities.

3. FLORAL ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

3.1 Red and Orange Data Listed Flora

Prior to the field visit, a record of Red Data Listed (RDL) floral species and their habitat requirements was acquired from the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) for the Quarter Degree Squares (QDSs) 2527CB and 2527DA (Appendix A). Throughout the floral assessment, special attention was paid to the identification of any of these RDL species as well as identification of suitable habitat that could potentially sustain these species.

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The Probability of Occurrence (POC) for each floral species of concern (within the QDSs 2527CB and 2527DA) was determined using the following calculations wherein the habitat requirements and habitat disturbance were considered. The accuracy of the calculation is based on the available knowledge about the species in question, with many of the species lacking in-depth habitat research. Therefore, it is important that the literature available is also considered during the calculation.

Each factor contributes an equal value to the calculation. Literature availability

No Literature Literature available available Site score Score 0 1 2 3 4 5 Habitat availability

No Habitat available Habitat available Site score Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Habitat disturbance 0 Very Low Low Moderately High Very High Site score Score 5 4 3 2 1 0

[Literature availability + Habitat availability + Habitat disturbance] / 15 x 100 = POC%

3.2 Vegetation Surveys

Vegetation surveys were undertaken by first identifying different habitat units and then analysing the floral species composition. Vegetation analyses were conducted within areas that were perceived to best represent the various plant communities. Species were recorded and a species list was compiled for each habitat unit. These species lists were also compared with the vegetation expected to be found within the relevant vegetation types as described in Sections 4.3 – 4.7, which serves to provide an accurate indication of the ecological integrity and conservational value of each habitat unit.

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3.3 Vegetation Index Score

The Vegetation Index Score (VIS) was designed to determine the ecological state of each habitat unit defined within an assessment site. This enables an accurate and consistent description of the Present Ecological State (PES) concerning the subject property in question. The information gathered during these assessments also significantly contributes to sensitivity mapping, leading to a more truthful representation of ecological value and sensitive habitats.

Each defined habitat unit is assessed using separate data sheets (Appendix B) and all the information gathered then contributes to the final VIS score. The VIS is derived using the following formulas:

VIS = [( EVC )+(( SIxPVC )+( RIS ))]

Where: 1. EVC is extent of vegetation cover;

2. SI is structural intactness;

3. PVC is percentage cover of indigenous species and

4. RIS is recruitment of indigenous species.

Each of these contributing factors is individually calculated as discussed below. All scores and tables indicated in blue are used in the final score calculation for each contributing factor.

1. EVC=[[(EVC1+EVC2)/2] EVC 1 - Percentage natural vegetation cover:

Vegetation cover % 0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Site score EVC 1 score 0 1 2 3 4 5

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EVC2 - Total site disturbance score:

Very Very Disturbance score 0 Low Low Moderately High High Site score EVC 2 score 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. SI=(SI1+SI2+SI3+SI4)/4)

Trees Shrubs Forbs Grasses

(SI1) (SI2) (SI3) (SI4) Perceived Perceived Perceived Perceived Present Present Present Present Score: Reference Reference Reference Reference State State State State State State State State Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse Present State (P/S) = Currently applicable for each habitat unit Perceived Reference State (PRS) = If in pristine condition

Each SI score is determined with reference to the following scoring table of vegetation distribution for present state versus perceived reference state.

Present

state (P/S) Perceived Reference state Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse (PRS)

Continuous 3 2 1 0 Clumped 2 3 2 1

Scattered 1 2 3 2

Sparse 0 1 2 3

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3. PVC=[(EVC)-((exotic x 0.7) + (bare ground x 0.3))

Percentage vegetation cover (exotic):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Percentage vegetation cover (bare ground):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. RIS Extent of Very indigenous species 0 Low Moderate High Very High Low recruitment RIS 0 1 2 3 4 5

The final VIS scores for each habitat unit are then categorised as follows:

Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified 5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive <5 F Modified completely

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4. FLORAL DESCRIPTION

4.1 Biome and bioregion

Biomes are broad ecological units that represent major life zones extending over large natural areas (Rutherford, 1997). The subject property falls within the Savanna biome (Rutherford & Westfall, 1994) (Figure 1). Biomes are further divided into bioregions, which are spatial terrestrial units possessing similar biotic and physical features, and processes at a regional scale. The subject property is situated within the Central Bushveld Bioregion (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006) (Figure 2).

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Figure 1: Biome associated with the subject property (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006).

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Figure 2: Bioregion associated with the subject property (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

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4.2 Vegetation Type and Landscape Characteristics

While biomes and bioregions are valuable as they describe broad ecological patterns, they provide limited information on the actual species that are expected to be found in an area. Knowing which vegetation type an area belongs to provides an indication of the floral composition that would be found if the assessment site was in a pristine condition, which can then be compared to the observed floral list and so give an accurate and timely description of the ecological integrity of the assessment site. When the boundary of the assessment site is superimposed on the vegetation types of the surrounding area (Figure 3), it is evident that the subject property falls within three vegetation types namely the Marikana Thornveld, Moot Plains Bushveld and Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld vegetation types (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). The characteristics of these vegetation types are discussed below.

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Figure 3: Vegetation types associated with the subject property (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

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4.3 Distribution

4.3.1 Marikana Thornveld

Marikana Thornveld occurs in the North West and Gauteng Provinces. It occurs on plains from the Rustenburg area in the west, through Marikana and Brits to the Pretoria area in the east. Altitude ranges from 1050 – 1450m (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.3.2 Moot Plains Bushveld

The Moot Plains Bushveld vegetation type occurs in the Northwest and Gauteng provinces and is found immediately south of the Magaliesberg mountain range (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.3.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld

The Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld vegetation type occurs in the North-West, Gauteng, Free State and Mpumalanga Provinces. It occurs along rocky quartzite ridges of the Magaliesberg and the parallel ridge to the south, from around Boshoek and Koster in the west to near Bronkhorstspruit in the east. The west-east-trending ridge of the Witwatersrand form around Krugersdorp in the west, through Roodepoort and Johannesburg to Bedfordview (Germiston District). Inner ridges (e.g. Dwarsberg and Witkop) of the Vredefort Dome on the Vaal River northwest of Parys and part of the Suikerbosrand and some other hills around Heidelberg. Altitude ranges from 1 200 to 1750m (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.4 Climate

4.4.1 Marikana Thornveld

Marikana Thornveld is characterised by summer rainfalls with very dry winters. Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) ranges between 600 and 700mm and frost is fairly frequent in winter. Mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures for Brits are 35.3°C and -3.3°C for January and June respectively. Corresponding values are 35.3°C and -1.4°C for Rustenburg (November and July) and 32.8°C and -1.0°C for Pretoria University Experimental Farm (Jan and July) (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.4.2 Moot Plains Bushveld

Portions of the subject property occur within the Moot Plains Bushveld vegetation type, which is also a summer rainfall area with an average annual rainfall of 550 – 700mm. Winters are very dry, with frost frequently occurring. Annual temperatures vary from -3.1ºC to 33.6ºC. Altitude varies from 1050 to 1450m (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

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4.4.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld

The Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld is characterised by summer rainfall with very dry winters. The mean annual precipitation (MAP) ranges between 600 -750mm. Frost frequently occurs in winter (especially in the south), but is less common on the ridges and hills. The mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures for Krugersdorp are 30.8ºC and -1.8ºC for January and July, respectively (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.5 Geology and soils

4.5.1 Marikana Thornveld

Most of the area is underlain by the mafic intrusive rock of the Rustenburg layered suite of the Bushveld Igneous Complex. Rocks include gabbro, norite, pyroxenite and anorthosite. The shales and quartzites of the Pretoria group also contribute. The soils mainly consist of vertic melanic clay with some dystrophic or mesotrophic plinthic catenas and some freely drained, deep soils. Land types are mainly Ea, Ba and Ae (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.5.2 Moot Plains Bushveld

Geology of the vegetation type is characterised by clastic sediments and minor carbonates and volcanics of the Pretoria Group and some Malmani dolomites on the west (all Transvaal Supergroup), with some contribution from mafic bushveld intrusives. Soils are generally stony with colluvial clay-loam, although these may vary to include drained red-yellow apedal, dystrophic and eutrophic plinthic catena‟s, vertic and melenic clays and some less typical Glenrosa and Mispah soil forms (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.5.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld

This area consists predominantly of quartzites, conglomerates and some shale horizons of the Magaliesberg, Daspoort and Silverton Formations (Vaalian Pretoria Group) and the Hospital Hill, Turffontein and Government Subgroups (Randian Witwatersrand Supergroup). Soils are shallow, gravel lithosols of the Mispah and Glenrosa forms (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.6 Conservation

4.6.1 Marikana Thornveld

The Marikana Thornveld Ecosystem is described by the National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems (2011) as being “Vulnerable”. The conservation target for the area is 19% and less than 1% is statutorily conserved in for example, Magaliesberg Nature Area. More of the vegetation type is conserved in other reserves such as De Onderstepoort Nature

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Reserve. The vegetation type is considerably impacted. With 48% transformed, mainly by cultivation and urban or built up areas. Most agricultural development of this area is in the western regions towards Rustenburg, while in the east industrial development is a greater threat. Erosion is very low to moderate. Alien invasive floral species occur localised in high densities, especially along drainage lines (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.6.2 Moot Plains Bushveld

This vegetation type is considered vulnerable. Some 13% is statutorily conserved, mainly in the Magaliesberg Nature Reserve. About 28% is transformed, mainly due to cultivation and urban and built-up areas. Alien invasive plants have a scattered occurrence and are dominated by species such as Cereus jamacaru, Eucalyptus sp., Jacaranda mimosifolia, Lantana camara, Melia azedarach and Schinus sp. Erosion is mainly very low to low, but moderate in some areas (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.6.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld

The Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld is considered least threatened with a target of 24%. Some 22% is statutorily conserved mainly in the Magaliesberg Nature Area and much smaller proportions in the Rustenburg, Wonderboom and Suikerbosrand Nature Reserves. At least an additional 1% is conserved in other reserves, which brings the total conserved areas very close to the target. About 15% is transformed mainly by cultivation, urbanisation and built-up areas. Some areas contain dense stands of the alien tree species Melia azedarach but are often associated with drainage lines or alluvia embedded within this unit. Erosion is low to very low (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006).

4.7 Dominant Floral Taxa

4.7.1 Marikana Thornveld

In terms of recent vegetation classifications, the assessed area occurs within the MarikanaThornveld vegetation type (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). This vegetation occurs as open Acacia karroo woodland, in valleys and slightly undulating plains and some lowland hills. Shrubs are more dense along drainage lines, on termitaria and rocky outcrops or in other habitats protected from fire.

Key indicator species of this vegetation type include:  Tall tree: Acacia burkei;  Small trees: Acacia caffra (d), A. gerrardii, A. karroo (d), A. nilotica, A. tortilis subsp. heteracantha, Combretum molle (d), Rhus lancea (d), Ziziphus mucronata (d), Pappea

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capensis, Dombeya rotundifolia, Peltophorum africanum, Celtis africana, Terminalia sericea;  Tall shrubs: Euclea crispa subsp. crispa (d), Olea europaea subsp. africana (d), Rhus pyroides var. pyroides (d), Diospyros lycoides subsp. guerkei, Ehretia rigida subsp. rigida, Euclea undulata, Grewia flava, Pavetta gardeniifolia;  Low shrubs: Asparagus cooperi (d), Rhynchosia nitens (d), Indigofera zeyheri, Justicia flava;  Woody climbers: Clematis brachiata (d), Helinus integrifolius;  Herbaceous climber: Cyphostemma cirrhosum, Pentarrihum insipidum (d);  Graminoids: Elionurus muticus (d), Eragrostis lehmanniana (d), Setaria sphacelata (d), Themeda triandra (d), Aristida scabrivalvis subsp. scabrivalvis, Fingerhuthia Africana, Heteropogon contortus, Hyperthelia dissoluta, Melinis nerviglumis, Pogonarthria squarrosa;  Herb: Hermannia depressa (d), Ipomoea obscura (d), Vernonia oligocephala;  Geophytic herbs: Ledebouria revoluta, Ornithogalum tenuifolium, Sansevieria aethiopica. *d = dominant species 4.7.2 Moot Plains Bushveld

This vegetation type may be described as being open to closed, low, often thorny savanna, dominated by Acacia spp. in the plains and bottomlands. Woodland of varying height is found on the lower slopes and hillsides and the herbaceous layer is typically dominated by grasses. The dominant and typical floral species for the vegetation type are presented below.  Small Trees: Acacia nilotica, A. tortilis, Rhus lancea;  Tall Shrubs: Buddleja saligna, Euclea undulata, Grewia occidentalis, Gymnosporia polyacantha, Mystroxylon aethiopicum, Olea europaea;  Low Shrubs: Aptosimum elongatum, Felicia fascicularis, Lantana rugosa, Teucrium trifidum;  Succulent Shrub: Kalanchoe paniculata;  Woody Climber: Jasminum breviflorum;  Herbaceous Climber: Lotononis bainesii;  Grass species: Aristida congesta, Chloris virgata, Cynodon dactylon, Heteropogon contortus, Setaria sphacelata, Sporobolus nitens, Themeda triandra, Tragus racemosus;  Herbs: Achyropsis avicularis, Corchorus asplenifolius, Evolvulus alsinoides, Helichrysum nudifolium, H. undulatum, Hermannia depressa, Osteospermum muricatum, Phyllanthus maderaspatensis.

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4.7.3 Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld

The Gold Reef Mountain Bushveld contains rocky hills and ridges, trending with more dense woody vegetation often on the south-facing slopes associated with distinct floristic differences (e.g. preponderance of Acacia caffra on the southern slopes). Tree cover elsewhere is variable. Tree and shrub layers are often continuous. Herbaceous layer is dominated by grasses. Key indicator species of this vegetation type include:  Small trees: Acacia caffra (d), Combretum molle (d), Protea caffra (d), Celtis africana, Dombeya rotundifolia, Englerophytum magalismontanum, Ochna pretoriensis, Rhus leptodictya, Vangueria infausta, V. parvifolia, Ziziphus mucronata;  Tall Shrubs: Canthuim gilfillanii, Ehretia rigida subsp. rigida, Grewia occidentalis, Gymnosporia buxifolia, Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. burkeanum;  Low shrubs: Athirixia elata, Pearsonia cajanifolia, Rhus magalismontana subsp. magalismontana, R. rigida var. rigida;  Woody Climber: Ancylobotrys capensis;  Graminoids: Loudetia simplex (d), Panicum natalense (d), Schizachyrium sanguineum (d), Trachypogon spicatus, Alloteropsis semialata subsp. eckloniana, Bewsia biflora, Digitaria tricholaenoides, Diheteropogon amplectens, Sporobolus pectinatus, Tristachya biseriata, T. leucothrix;  Herbs: Helichrysum nudifolium, H. rugulosum, Pentanisia angustiflolia, Senecio venosus, Xerophyta retinervis;  Geophytic herbs: Cheilanthes hirta, Hypoxis hemerocallidea, Pellaea calomelanos. *d = dominant species

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5. RESULTS OF FLORAL INVESTIGATION

Vegetation associated with the Tharisa Mine MRA, the proposed mine development areas and related infrastructure footprint comprises four broad habitat units, namely the Transformed Habitat Unit, the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit, the Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit and the Wetland Habitat Unit (Figure 4).

The Transformed Habitat Unit covers the majority of the subject property and includes areas where vegetation cover has been significantly impacted by current and historical mining and agricultural activities as well as through infrastructure and housing development.

The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit includes patches of less impacted bushveld habitat containing a high abundance of indigenous species. This habitat unit occurs throughout the subject property, mainly in the vicinity of the Rocky Outcrop and Wetland Habitat Units and between the agricultural areas in the southwest. These areas have not previously been cultivated and have not been significantly impacted by mining activities. One floral species, which is protected under the National Forests Act (Act 84 of 1998), namely Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra (Marula), occurs within this habitat unit. In terms of this act, protected tree species may not be cut, disturbed, damaged or destroyed and their products may not be possessed, collected, removed, transported, exported, donated, purchased or sold - except under licence granted by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA). Applications for such activities should be made to the responsible official in each province.

The Wetland Habitat Unit is located in the northeast, northwest, southwest and southeast of the subject property and is associated with a number of non-perennial tributaries. The perennial Sterkstroom River traversing the centre of the subject property and flowing in a northern direction is also included within the Wetland Habitat Unit.

The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit comprises a number of small rocky outcrops, with largely intact vegetation composition and structure, a high diversity of floral species and an increased diversity and abundance of faunal species. The vegetation occurring within these areas are notably different from that of the Transformed Habitat Unit and comprise vegetation typical of rocky areas within the region. Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra trees are also abundant within these areas.

Each habitat unit mentioned above is described in detail in the sections below.

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Legend

Wetland Habitat Unit

Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit

Transformed Habitat Unit Mining and Infrastructure

Agricultural Areas

Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit

Figure 4: Habitat units identified within the subject property.

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5.1 Habitat Unit 1: Transformed Habitat Unit

Figure 5: The Transformed Habitat Unit is representative of the majority of the vegetation within the subject property.

The Transformed Habitat Unit (Figure 5) occurs within the majority of the study area and includes all areas affected by mining activities, landscaped areas related to existing development, infrastructure and housing development, as well as current and historical agricultural activities where vegetation has been completely altered from that which would have naturally occurred in the area. Limited indigenous plant species occur within this habitat unit with the majority of species being typical of transformed habitats. A number of the common alien and invasive floral species as listed in Section 5.7 occur in these areas. The dominant floral species encountered within this habitat unit during the field assessment are listed below.

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Table 1: Dominant floral species encountered in the Transformed Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk and landscaping species with a double asterisk. Grass/sedge/reed species Forb species Tree/Shrub Species *Pennisetum setaceum *Amaranthus spinosus **Agapanthus africana Aristida bipartita *Argemone ochroleuca **Aloe marlothiii Aristida congesta subsp. barbicollis *Bidens pilosa **Bougainvillea sp. Aristida congesta subsp. congesta *Conyza albida **Hemerocallis flava Bothriochloa insculpta *Conyza bonariensis **Lagerstroemia indica Cenchrus ciliaris *Datura ferox **Monstera deliciosa Cynodon dactylon *Datura stramonium **Nephrolepis exaltata Dicanthium annulatum *Hibiscus trionum **Phoenix reclianta Digitaria eriantha *Nicotiana glauca **Rosa spp. Enneapogon cenchroides *Schkuhria pinnata **Strelitzia reginae Eragrostis chloromelas *Sesbania bispinosa **Thunbergia alata Eragrostis curvula *Tagetes minuta **Washingtonia robusta Hyparrhenia hirta *Xanthium strumarium **Yucca gloriosa Hyperthelia dissoluta *Zinnia peruviana *Grevillea robusta Melinis repens Aloe greatheadii var davyana *Melia azedarach Panicum schinzii Asclepias fruticosa Acacia karroo Paspalum dilatatum Asparagus laricinus Acacia nilotica Pogonarthria squarrosa Nidorella resedifolia Acacia robusta Tragus berteronianus Rhynchosia minima Dichrostachys cinerea Typha capensis Rhynchosia nitens Searsia lancea Urochloa mosambicensis Sesamum triphyllum Searsia pyroides Solanum panduriforme

In terms of conservation value, this habitat unit provides poor habitat and limited ecological functionality, which lowers the ecological sensitivity of these areas. Vegetation within these areas has a low ecological sensitivity and conservation value.

No RDL floral species were observed during the assessment of these areas and the probability that RDL floral species occur here is low.

5.2 Habitat Unit 2: Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit

Figure 6: The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit, situated towards the centre of the subject property.

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The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit (Figure 6) comprises a number of rocky outcrop areas of limited extent. The floral species occurring within this habitat unit are typical of the rocky outcrops and rocky ridges of the area, hosting an indigenous species assemblage of high biodiversity. Dominant floral species include the protected tree species Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra as well as other woody species such as Pappea capensis, Combretum molle, Peltophorum africanum, Croton gratissimus, Euphorbia ingens, Ficus thonningii, Berchemia zeyherii, Vitex zeyherii and Erythrina lysistemon, amongst others.

Shrubs and forbs associated with the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit include Rhoicissus tridentata, Commelina erecta, Cyanotis speciosa, Cyphostemma cirrhosum, Hypoxis rigidula and Sarcostemma viminale, while the grass layer is dominated by species such as Themeda triandra, Heteropogon contortus, Anthephora pubescens, Loudetia simplex, Elionurus muticus and Panicum maximum. Alien species are limited, but do occur around the boundaries of the rocky outcrops where impacts, mostly from housing infrastructure and to some extent from mining, have impacted upon these areas.

A number of species protected under the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance (TNCO, No 12 of 1983) were encountered within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit and include the orchid species Eulophia streptopetala, Cussonia paniculata (highveld Cabbage Tree) (Figure 7) and Xerophyta retinervis (Monkey‟s tail). In addition to these species, two fern species also protected under the TNCO, namely Palleae calomelanos and Cheilanthes viridis are also present in these areas. According to the 2008 assessment report compiled by Natural Scientific Services (Tharisa Mineral Biodiversity Assessment, 2008), additional species protected under the TNCO, namely various Gladiolus species, as well as Huernia hystrix, were also noted within this Habitat Unit.

Figure 7: Flowering Eulophia streptopetala on the left and Cussonia paniculata on the right as encountered within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit.

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The table below lists the dominant floral species found within this habitat unit during the field assessment.

Table 2: Dominant species encountered in the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk and landscaping species with a double asterisk. Grass/sedge/reed species Forb species Tree/Shrub Species Anthephora pubescens *Bidens bipinnata **Sanseveria aethiopica Aristida bipartita *Bidens pilosa *Prunus persica Aristida congesta subsp barbicollis *Catharanthus roseus *Tecoma stans Aristida congesta subsp congesta *Lantana camara Acacia caffra Bothriochloa insculpta *Ricinus communis Acacia karroo Brachiaria eruciformis *Schkurhia pinnata Acacia robusta Elionurus muticus *Tagetes minuta Berchemia zeyheri Eragrostis curvula *Tribulus terrestris Celtis africana Eragrostis rigidior *Zinnia peruviana Combretum molle Eragrostis superba Albuca sp. Croton gratissimus Heteropogon contortus Aloe greatheadii var davyana Cussonia paniculata Hyperthelia dissoluta Asclepias sp. Dichrostachys cinerea Kyllinga alba Asparagus suaveolens Diospyros lycioides Loudetia simplex Bulbostylis humilis Dodonea angustifolia Melinis nerviglumis Coccinia adoensis Dombeya rotundifolia Melinis repens Commelina africana Ehretia rigida Panicum maximum Commelina erecta Erythrina lysistemon Panicum schinzii Cyanotis speciosa Euclea crispa Setaria megaphylla Cyphostemma cirrhosum Euclea natalensis Setaria nigrirostris Dipcadi viride Euphorbia ingens Setaria pallide-fusca Elephantorrhiza elephantina Ficus thonningii Sporobolus stapfianus Evolvulus alsinoides Flueggea virosa Themeda triandra Felicia muricata Grewia flava Hypoestes forskaolii Gymnosporia buxifolia Hypoxis rigidula Mundulea sericea Indigofera daleoides Olea europaea subsp. africana Indigofera sp. Osyris lanceolata Ipomoea bachycolpos Ozoroa paniculosa Kyphocarpa angustifolia Pappea capensis Lantana rugosa Pavetta zeyheri Ledebouria cooperi Sclerocarya birrea subsp caffra Ledebouria revoluta Searsia leptodictya Pellaea calomelanos Searsia pyroides Pentarrhinum insipidum Searsia zeyheri Rhoicissus tridentata Senecio barbertonicus Rhynchosia minima Vanguaria infausta Rhynchosia totta Vitex zeyheri Sarcostemma viminale Zanthoxylum capense Sida rhombifolia Ziziphus mucronata Solanum panduriforme Talinum caffrum Tulbaghia acutiloba Xerophyta retinervis

The high ecological functionality, high biodiversity and mostly intact habitat integrity, as well as the number of protected floral species within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit combine to increase the ecological sensitivity and conservation value of this habitat unit. The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit provides habitat for a diversity of faunal species and contribute to providing faunal migratory habitat within the area.

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The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit is therefore considered to be of high ecological sensitivity and these areas should be excluded from development if possible. Care should be taken to avoid encroachment into the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit by mining activities and mining infrastructure.

5.3 Habitat Unit 3: Scattered Open Bushveld Habitat Unit

Figure 8: The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit.

The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit (Figure 8) includes patches of less impacted bushveld habitat that have not previously been impacted by agricultural activities and have not been significantly affected by mining activities. This habitat unit occurs mainly in the vicinity of the Rocky Outcrop and Wetland Habitat Units and between the agricultural areas in the southwest. Rocky areas providing habitat for trees such as Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra and Euphorbia ingens are also present within this habitat unit and overall floral biodiversity is considered moderate with a high abundance of indigenous forbs and grass species present.

The table below lists the dominant floral species found within this habitat unit during the field assessment.

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Table 3: Dominant species encountered in the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk. Grass/sedge/reed species Forb species Tree/Shrub Species Aristida bipartita *Bidens bipinnata *Grevillea robusta Aristida congesta subsp. *Bidens pilosa *Jacaranda mimosifolia barbicollis *Lantana camara *Melia azedarach Bothriochloa insculpta *Tagetes minuta Acacia caffra Digitaria eriantha *Zinnia peruviana Acacia karroo Ehretia rigida Aloe greatheadii var davyana Acacia nilotica Eragrostis chloromelas Asparagus laricinus Acacia robusta Eragrostis curvula Commelina africana Acacia tortilis Heteropogon contortus Convolvulus sagittatus Celtis africana Hyparrhenia hirta Crabbea hirsuta Dicrostachys cinerea Hyperthelia dissoluta Crinum macowanii Diospyros lycioides Ischaemum afrum Cucumis zeyherii Euclea crispa Panicum maximum Dipcadi viride Euphorbia ingens Setaria nigrirostris Hibiscus trionum Grewia flava Themeda triandra Homeria pallida Gymnosporia buxifolia Hypoxis hemerocallidea Searsia lancea Hypoxis rigidula Searsia leptodictya Kohautia virgata Searsia pyroides Ledebouria revoluta Tarchonanthus camphoratus Monsonia angustifolia Ziziphus mucronata Scabiosa columbaria Sida rhombifolia Rhynchosia nitens Tephrosia capensis Vernonia oligocephala Viscum rotundifolium

A portion of this habitat unit within the centre of the subject property is indicated to be located within the remaining extent of the Vulnerable Marikana Thornveld Ecosystem by the National List of Threatened Terrestrial Ecosystems (2011). This habitat unit also provides habitat for a number of faunal and floral species, however the habitat integrity thereof is not considered intact or fully representative of this ecosystem, largely due to the fragmented nature thereof and the presence of existing houses and cultivated land interspersing these areas. In addition, large areas of similar habitat are situated within close proximity to the subject property and loss of this habitat unit is unlikely to result in a loss of floral diversity in the region. The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit is therefore not considered to be of high importance in terms of conservation nor is it considered to be of high ecological sensitivity.

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5.4 Habitat Unit 4: Wetland Habitat Unit

Figure 9: The Wetland Habitat Unit occurring throughout the subject property.

Various wetlands associated with non-perennial drainage lines traverse the subject property within the northeast, northwest, southwest and southeast of the subject property. In addition, the Sterkstroom River, which is a perennial river in the area, traverses the centre of the subject property. The vegetation present within the Wetland Habitat Unit (Figure 9) includes a variety of facultative and obligate wetland species with the Sterkstroom River in particular, being dominated by Typha capensis and Phragmites australis, both obligate wetland species. The vegetation associated with the non-perennial drainage lines comprises grass species such as Imperata cylindrica and woody species often associated with moist conditions such as Combretum eryhtrophyllum and Celtis africana. Along the Sterkstroom River, the alien tree species Populus x canescens, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Melia azedarach and Phytolacca dioica are present in dense stands, while a number of other alien plant species, including Verbena bonariensis, Zinnia peruviana, Jacaranda mimosifolia and Tagetes minuta were noted.

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The table below outlines the dominant floral species encountered within the Wetland Habitat Unit.

Table 4: Dominant species encountered in the Wetland Habitat Unit. Alien species are indicated with an asterisk. Grass/sedge/reed species Forb species Tree/Shrub Species *Paspalum urvillei *Persicaria laphathifolia *Jacaranda mimosifolia Andropogon schirensis *Rubus cuneifolius *Melia azedarach Bothriochloa insculpta *Rumex crispus *Morus alba Cymbopogon excavatus *Tagetes minuta *Opuntia humifisa Cynodon dactylon *Tithonia rotundifolia *Phytolacca dioica Cypersu esculentis *Verbena bonariensis *Populus x canescens Cyperus longus *Zinnia peruviana Acacia karroo Cyperus ruprestis Asparagus laricunus Asparagus laricunus Dicanthium annulatum Berkheya radula Buddleja saligna Eragrostis plana Commelina africana Carissa bispinosa Eragrotis curvula Jamesbrittenia aurantiaca Celtis africana Eragrotis lehmanniana Ledebouria cooperi Combretum erythrophyllum Eragrotis plana Polygala hottentotta Eucalyptus camaldulensis Heteropogon contortus Psiadia punctulata Myrica serrata Hyparrhenia hirta Ranunculus multifidis Pappea capensis Hyperthelia dissoluta Veronica anagallis-aquatica Searsia lancea Imperata cylindrica Searsia pyroides Juncus effusus Tarchonanthus camphoratus Ledebouria revoluta Ziziphus mucronata Mariscus congestus Panicum maximum Panicum schinzii Phragmites australis Schoenoplectus corymbosus Setaria megaphylla Setaria nigrirostris Sporobolus africanus Themeda triandra Typha capensis

The Wetland Habitat Unit is considered to be of high ecological sensitivity due to the contribution of the various wetland features to faunal migratory connectivity, wetland eco- services provision and the unique habitat provided for faunal and floral species. No RDL floral species were encountered within this habitat unit, and the possibility of such species being present is considered low due to the high levels of historical anthropogenic activities in the region, which include cultivation and grazing.

5.5 RDL Floral and Protected Tree Status Assessments

An assessment considering the presence of any plant species of concern, as well as suitable habitat to support any such species, was undertaken. The complete PRECIS (Pretoria Computer Information Systems) RDL floral lists for the grid references (2527CB, 2527CD, 2527DA and 2527DC) were obtained from SANBI - see table below.

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Table 5: IUCN Red Data List Categories – Version 3.1 as supplied by SANBI Category Definition EX Extinct EW Extinct in the wild CR Critically endangered EN Endangered VU Vulnerable NT Near threatened LC Least concern DD Data deficient NE Not evaluated

Table 6: PRECIS plant list for the QDS 2527CB (Raimondo et al., 2009; SANBI, www.sanbi.org). Family Species Threat status Growthforms Habitat Coarse, shallow, MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Frithia pulchra N.E.Br. Rare Succulent quartzitic soils on sandstones

Table 7: PRECIS plant list for the QDS 2527DA (Raimondo et al., 2009; SANBI, www.sanbi.org). Threat Family Species Growth form Habitat status APOCYNACEAE Stenostelma NT Geophyte, Deep black turf in umbelluliferum (Schltr.) herb, open woodland S.P.Bester & Nicholas succulent mainly in the vicinity of drainage lines AQUIFOLIACEAE Ilex mitis (L.) Radlk. var. Declining Shrub, tree Along rivers and mitis streams in forest and thickets, sometimes in the open. Found from sea level to inland mountain slopes ROSACEAE Prunus africana VU Tree Evergreen forests (Hook.f.) Kalkman near the coast, inland mistbelt forests and afromontane forests up to 2100 m

The POC of each of the species listed above was calculated (table below) with reference to habitat suitability within the subject property.

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Table 8: POC for floral species of concern. Species Literature Habitat Disturbance POC Motivation 2 0 0 13% No suitable habitat, Frithia pulchra particularly coarse quartzitic soils is available for this species. Ilex mitis No suitable habitat is 3 1 1 33% available for this species. If present, this species will Stenostelma 2 2 2 40% be located within the umbelluliferum Wetland Habitat Unit. No suitable habitat is Prunus africana 3 0 0 20% available for this species.

From the above assessment, it is clear that none of the RDL floral species listed for the two QDSs, has a high probability of occurring within the subject property. If present, these species will occur within the less disturbed portions of the Wetland Habitat Unit and possibly within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. Two floral species, namely Hypoxis hemerocallidae and Crinum macowanii, have not been recorded for the QDSs, but are listed by the IUCN (2013) as being „Declining‟. These species were noted within the Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit. Should these species be encountered within the modified surface infrastructre footprint areas, such specimens should be relocated to similar suitable habitat within or in the vicinity of the Tharisa Mine.

The tree species Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra (Marula) is present on the subject property within both the Rocky Outcrop and Scattered Bushveld Habitat Units. This tree species is protected under the National Forests Act of 1998 (Act 84 of 1998). In terms of this act, protected tree species may not be cut, disturbed, damaged or destroyed and their products may not be possessed, collected, removed, transported, exported, donated, purchased or sold - except under licence granted by the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) (or a delegated authority). Applications for such activities should be made to the responsible official in each province. Each application is evaluated on merit (including site visits) before a decision is taken whether or not to issue a licence (with or without conditions). Such decisions must be in line with national policy and guidelines.

Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra trees are difficult to transplant once mature, due to the risk of damaging the relatively shallow root system. Should transplanting prove unsuccessful, additional Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra trees are to be planted to offset potential loss of

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SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013 marula trees due to infrastructure development. It is recommended that for each Marula tree destroyed, two additional trees of the same species are to be planted.

A number of floral species protected under the TNCO (No 83 of 1983), namely Palleae calomelanos, Cheilanthes viridis, Cussonia paniculata, Eulophia streptopetala and Xerophyta retinervis, were encountered within the Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit. In addition to these species, a high probability exists that Boohane disticha and various Gladiolus species will also be present within the subject property. It is unclear whether the TNCO act is still applicable. The North West Province Biodiversity Conservation Bill, which was published for comment under Notice Nr. 394, Provincial Gazette 6719, dated 23 December 2009, incorporates the old Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance of 1983, but the status of this Bill is also currently unclear. It is therefore recommended that the relevant competent authorities provide clarity on this issue in the Record of Decision (ROD).

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5.6 Vegetation Index Score

The information gathered during the assessment of the subject property was used to determine the Vegetation Index Score (VIS) - see Appendix B for calculations. Due to variation between the different habitat units, all habitat units were assessed separately. The tables below list the scoring system as well as the results of each habitat unit.

Table 9: Scoring for the Vegetation Index Score Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified 5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive <5 F Modified completely

Table 10: Vegetation Index Score Habitat unit Score Class Motivation These areas have been disturbed extensively Transformed Bushveld E – The loss of natural due to mining and agricultural activities and 5 Habitat Unit habitat extensive have been impacted significantly by infrastructure development. These areas have intact habitat and low levels of alien floral species. Edge effects from Rocky Outcrop Habitat B – Largely Natural with 19 adjacent anthropogenic activities have impacted Unit few modification upon these areas and loss of ecological corridors between rocky outcrops is evident. This habitat is of high importance in terms of habitat provision for a number of floral and Wetland Habitat Unit 15 C – Moderately modified faunal species. Moderate to high levels of alien species invasion was noted. Vegetation structure is intact and increased species diversity is present, however Scattered Bushveld fragmentation due to agricultural activities has 18 C – Moderately modified Habitat Unit taken place and edge effects of mining and development activities have impacted on this habitat unit. 5.7 Alien and Invasive Floral Species

Alien invaders plants are plants that are of exotic origin and are invading previously pristine areas or ecological niches (Bromilow, 2001). Not all weeds are exotic in origin but, as these exotic plant species have very limited natural “check” mechanisms within the natural environment, they are often the most opportunistic and aggressively growing species within the ecosystem. Therefore, they are often the most dominant and noticeable within an area. Disturbances of the ground through trampling, excavations or landscaping often leads to the dominance of exotic pioneer species that rapidly dominate the area.

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Under natural conditions, these pioneer species are overtaken by sub-climax and climax species through natural veld succession. This process, however, takes many years to occur, with the natural vegetation never reaching the balanced, pristine species composition prior to the disturbance. There are many species of indigenous pioneer plants, but very few indigenous species can out-compete their more aggressively growing exotic counterparts.

Alien vegetation invasion causes degradation of the ecological integrity of an area, causing (Bromilow, 2001):  A decline in species diversity;  Local extinction of indigenous species;  Ecological imbalance;  Decreased productivity of grazing pastures; and  Increased agricultural input costs.

During the floral assessment, all alien and weed species were identified and are listed in the table below.

Table 11: Dominant alien vegetation species identified during the general area assessment. Species English name Origin Category* Trees/ shrubs Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red River Gum Australia 2 Jacaranda mimosifolia Jacaranda Central and South America 3 Grevillea robusta Australian silky oak Australia 3 Melia azedarach Syringa India 3 Morus alba White mulberry China 3 Populus x canescens Grey poplar Eurasia 2 Prunus persica Peach tree China N/A Phytolacca dioica Belhambra South America 3 Tecoma stans Yellow bells Central America 1 Tipuana tipu Tipu tree Bolivia , Brazil 3 Forbs/ Grasses Amaranthus spinosus Thorny pigweed Central America N/A Argemone ochroleuca White-flowered Mexican Poppy Mexico 1 Bidens bipinnata Spanish blackjack Eurasia N/A Bidens pilosa Common blackjack South America N/A Catharanthus roseus Madacascar Periwinkle Madagascar 3 Conyza albida Tall fleabane America N/A Conyza bonariensis Flax-leaf fleabane Americas N/A Datura ferox Large thorn-apple Eurasia 1

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Species English name Origin Category*

Datura stramonium Common thorn-apple North America 1 Hibiscus trionum Bladder hibiscus Meidterranean N/A Lantana camara Common lantana Tropical America 1 Nicotiana glauca Wild tobacco Argentina 1 Opuntia humifisa Large-flowered prickyl pear North America 1 Paspalum urvillei Tall paspalum South America N/A Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu East Africa N/A Pennisetum setaceum Fountain grass North Africa 1 Persicaria lapathifolia Spotted knotweed Europe N/A Ricinus communis Castor-oil plant Africa 2 Rubus cuneifolius American bramble North America 1 Rumex crispus Curly dock Europe 3 Schkuhria pinnata Dwarf marigold South America N/A Sesbania bispinosa Spiny sesbania Asia, North Africa N/A Tagetes minuta Tall khakiweed South America N/A Tithonia rotundifolia Red sunflower South America 1 Tribulus terrestris Devil’s thorn Indigenous N/A Verbena bonariensis Purple top South America 1 Xanthium strumarium Large cocklebur South America 1 Zinnia peruviana Redstar zinnia South America N/A

Category 1 – Declared weeds. Prohibited plants, which must be controlled or eradicated. Category 2 – Declared invader plants with a value. “Invaders” with certain useful qualities (i.e. commercial). Only allowed in controlled, demarcated areas. Category 3 – Mostly ornamental plants. Alien plants presently growing in, or having escaped from, areas such as gardens, but are proven invaders. No further planting or trade in propagative material is allowed (Bromilow, 2001).

From the table above it is clear that a high diversity of alien species occurs within the subject property, with a number of these species falling within Category 1. The majority of alien plant species are present within the Transformed and Wetland Habitat Units.

5.8 Medicinal Plant Species

Medicinal plant species are not necessarily indigenous species, with many of them regarded as alien invasive weeds. The medicinal species are all commonly occurring species and are not confined to the subject property.

The table below presents a list of plant species with traditional medicinal value, plant parts traditionally used and their main applications, which were identified during the field assessment.

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Table 12: Traditional medicinal plants identified during the field assessment. Medicinal applications and application methods are also presented (van Wyk, et al., 1997; van Wyk and Gericke, 2000; van Wyk and Wink, 2004; van Wyk, Oudtshoorn, Gericke, 2009).

Species Name Plant parts used Medicinal uses

Acacia karroo Sweet thorn Bark, leaves and Remedy for diarrhoea and dysentry gum Aloe greatheadii var Aloe Stems and Decoction of powdered stems and leaf bases is davyana leaves taken orally twice a day after delivery to cleanse the system. Asclepias fruticosa Milkweed Leaves, Used as snuff to treat headaches and sometimes roots tuberculosis. Asparagus laricinus Wild asparagus Rhizomes and Traditionally used as treatment for tuberculosis, fleshy roots kidney ailments and rheumatism. Catharanthus roseus Madagascar Roots or leaves An infusion of the leaf is used to treat diabetes. periwinkle Extracts from the plant are used in combined chemotherapy. Crinum macowanii Crinum Bulbs and leaves Remedy for scrofula, micturition and rheumatic fever. Also used for blood cleansing, kidney and bladder diseases, glandular swelling, fever and skin problems. Croton gratissimus Lavender croton Bark The bark is mainly used to treat fever, but also numerous ailments such as bleeding gums, rheumatism, chest complaints, indigestion and oedema. The leaves are sometimes used for coughs. Datura stramonium Thornapple Leaves and Mainly used to relieve asthma and to reduce green fruit pain. Weak infusions are used as hypnotics by the elderly and as aphrodisiacs by adults. Dichrostachys cinerea Sickle bush Root and often Root infusions have been used to treat body stems bark, pain, backache, toothache, elephantiasis, leaves and pods syphilis, leprosy and as a styptic, diuretic, purgative and aphrodisiac. Dodonea angustifolia Sand olive Leave and tips of Used as a remedy for fever, colds, influenza, twigs stomach trouble, arthritis, skin rashes and measles Dombeya rotundifolia Wild pear Mainly bark, Infusions are used orally or as enemas to treat sometimes roots internal ulcers, haemorrhoids, diarrhoea and stomach problems. Elephantorrhiza Elandsbean Underground Traditional remedy for a wide range of ailments, elephantina rhizomes including diarrhoea and dysentery, stomach disorders, haemorrhoids and perforated peptic ulcers, and as emetics. It is popular for the treatment of skin diseases and acne. Erythrina lysistemon Common coral tree Bark, sometimes The main use of the bark is to treat sores, leaves and roots wounds, abscesses and arthritis. Hypoxis hemerocallidea African potato Rootstock Infusions of corm are used as emetics to treat dizziness, bladder disorders and insanity. Decoctions have been given to weak children as a tonic and the juice is reported to be applied to burns. Olea europea subsp Wild olive Dried leaves, The main use of the plant is as a hypotensive africana sometimes stem to lower blood pressure and to enhance renal and bark function. Pallaea calomelanos Hard fern Leaves and Leaves are smoked for head olds, chest olds rhizomes and asthma. Rhoicissus tridentata Bushman’s grape Roots Used to induce labour.

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Species Name Plant parts used Medicinal uses

Ricinus communis Castor oil plant Oil extracted from Well known purgative medicine, also used to leaves, treat stomachache. Root and leaf poultices are sometimes also widely applied to wounds, sores and boils. fruits, seeds or leaves Scabiosa columbaria Wild scabious Leaves and Remedy for colic and heartburn, dried roots are fleshy roots made into a wound-healing ointment and powered roots are also used as a pleasant- smelling baby powder. Sclerocarya birrea Marula Bark, roots and Diarrhoea, dysentery and unspecific stomach subsp. caffra leaves problems are treated with the bark. Also used as a general tonic, in combatting fever and in the treatment of malaria. Tagetes minuta Tall khaki bush Leaves, flowers The repellent properties of essential oil have been known for a long time and were found to be effective in preventing sheep from becoming infected with blow-fly larvae. Many gardeners use warm water extracts of the fresh plant to keep roses and other garden plants free from insects and fungal diseases. The essential oil is used in perfumery and as a flavourant in food, beverages and tobacco. Tarchonanthus Wild camphor bush Leaves and twigs Used to treat stomach trouble, abdominal pain, camphoratus headache, toothache, asthma, bronchitis and inflammation. Typha capensis Bulrush Rhizomes Used for venereal diseases during pregnancy to ensure an easy delivery, and for dysmenorrhoea, diarrhoea, dysentery and to enhance male potency and libido. Vernonia oligocephala Groenamara Leaves and twigs Infusions are taken as stomach bitters to treat abdominal pain and colic Xerophyta retinervis Monkey’s tail Roots, while plant Dried parts are smoked as relief from asthma or stems or smoke is used to stop nose bleeding. The stem is used to treat general aches of the body, as an anti-inflammatory and for post-partum haemorrhage. Ziziphus mucronata Buffalo thorn Roots, bark or Warm bark infusions (sometimes together with leaves used roots or leaves added) are used as separately or in expectorants (also as emetics) in cough and combination. chest problems, while root infusions are a popular remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery. Decoctions of roots and leaves (or chewed leaves) are applied externally to boils, sores and glandular swellings, to promote healing and as an analgesic.

6. SENSITIVITY MAPPING

A sensitivity map was compiled for the subject property by making use of the results of the ecological assessments. Areas of increased ecological sensitivity are indicated in Figure

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10 below. All areas not indicated to be of high ecological sensitivity, are considered to be of low ecological sensitivity.

From the assessment, it is evident that the Transformed Habitat Unit has low ecological sensitivity as a result of current and historic anthropogenic activity in the form of mining and agricultural activities having impacted on the ecological integrity of these areas.

The Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit, with intact habitat structure and high levels of ecological functioning is also considered to be of high ecological sensitivity.

The Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit has been exposed to fewer disturbances than the surrounding Transformed Habitat Unit and still hosts a reasonably high biodiversity and suitable habitat for a number of faunal and floral species, including protected Sclerocarya birrea subsp caffra trees. These areas are however fragmented and have been impacted by edge effects from adjacent mining and agricultural areas.

All wetland areas, including the Sterkstroom River, as included within the Wetland Habitat Unit, are regarded as being of increased ecological sensitivity due to the contribution of the various wetland features to faunal migratory connectivity, wetland eco-services provision and the unique habitat provided for faunal and floral species. Taking into account the findings from the wetland assessment (Section D), and considering the results obtained in calculating the function and ecoservices assessment, WET-Health, the Riparian Vegetation Response Assessment Index (VEGRAI), Wetland Index of Habitat Integrity (IHI) and Ecological Importance and Sensitivity (EIS), it was determined that the Sterkstroom River is of high ecological sensitivity, the North-eastern wetland, the South- western wetland and North-western wetlands are of moderate ecological sensitivity, while the artificial wetland feature in the southwest and the two South-eastern wetlands are of low ecological sensitivity.

A 100m buffer zone is indicated around all wetland features as advocated by Regulation GN 704 of the National Water Act, 1998.

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Legend

High ecological sensitivity Wetland areas

Moderate ecological sensitivity Wetland areas

Low ecological sensitivity Wetland areas

100m wetland buffer areas in line with Regulation GN794

High ecological sensitivity Rocky Outcrop areas

Figure 10: Sensitivity Map for the subject property.

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7. IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The tables below serve to summarise the significance of potential impacts on the floral features occurring on or directly adjacent to the subject property. A summary of all potential pre-construction, construction, operational, decommissioning and post-closure phase impacts is provided in Section 7.2 of this document. The sections below present the impact assessment according to the method described in Section A. In addition, it also indicates the required mitigatory and management measures needed to minimise potential ecological impacts and presents an assessment of the significance of the impacts taking into consideration the available mitigatory measures, assuming that they are fully implemented.

7.1 Impact Discussion

All proposed development activities that may impact on the floral communities of the subject property are discussed below.

7.1.1 IMPACT 1: Impact on habitat for floral species

Activities leading to impact

Pre-Construction Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Planning of mine Site clearing and the Ongoing disturbance of Ineffective rehabilitation infrastructure placement removal of vegetation soils with general of exposed and impacted and design leading to leading to loss of floral operational activities areas and failure to overall loss of floral habitat leading to altered floral implement an alien floral habitat within areas of habitat control plan may lead to increased ecological ongoing loss of floral sensitivity habitat Inadequate design of Encroachment of Increased introduction Disturbance of soils as infrastructure leading to construction activities into and proliferation of alien part of demolition pollution of soils and more sensitive areas plant species and further activities may alter floral ground water within the study area transformation of natural habitat could lead to loss of habitat due to indigenous floral habitat disturbance during operations Inadequate design of Site clearing and the Discharge and Ongoing seepage and infrastructure leading disturbance of soils contamination from runoff may affect the changes in floral habitat leading to increased operational facilities may groundwater regime erosion pollute receiving beyond closure environment Movement of construction Seepage affecting soils Ongoing risk of discharge vehicles and access road and the groundwater from mining facilities construction impacting on regime beyond closure floral habitat

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Dumping of material Runoff and seepage from Potential contamination leading to loss of floral operational facilities may from decommissioning of habitat lead to habitat loss the plant and other mining facilities Dumping of material Ongoing disturbance may Ineffective rehabilitation leading to alien plant lead to erosion and of exposed and impacted species proliferation sedimentation areas and failure to control alien floral species may lead to ongoing loss of floral habitat Compaction of soils due Insufficient aftercare and to construction activities maintenance leading to affecting floral habitat post closure impacts on floral habitat due to poor management Insufficient aftercare and maintenance leading to unchecked erosion and sedimentation Ineffective monitoring of rehabilitation due to poor management

Aspects of floral ecology affected

Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Direct impact on floral habitat Direct impact on floral habitat Direct impact on floral habitat during decommissioning Loss of floral biodiversity Loss of floral biodiversity Loss of floral biodiversity Contamination of soils Contamination of soils Ongoing contamination of soils Contamination of ground and Contamination of ground and Ongoing contamination of ground surface water on which floral surface water and surface water species are reliant Compaction and loss of soils Compaction and loss of soils Compaction and loss of soils during decommissioning Sedimentation and erosion leading Sedimentation and erosion leading Sedimentation and erosion leading to altered habitats to altered habitats to altered habitats Changes to the floral communities Changes to the floral communities Changes to the floral communities due to alien invasion vegetation due to alien invasion vegetation due to alien invasive vegetation leading to altered habitat conditions leading to altered habitat conditions leading to altered habitat conditions

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Without Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 5 3 4 4 5 8 13 104 (High) Essential mitigation measures:  It must be ensured that, as far as possible, all development is placed outside of sensitive floral habitat areas such as the Rocky Outcrop and Wetland Habitat Units.  Areas of increased ecological importance and sensitivity, such as the Rocky Outcrop and Wetland Habitat Units, should be considered during all phases of mine planning and construction activities.  No activities are to infringe upon these sensitive areas or associated buffer zones.  The boundaries of the development footprint areas are to be clearly defined and it should be ensured that all activities remain within defined footprint areas.  The proposed development footprint areas should remain as small as possible.  Where possible, connectivity between rocky outcrops and wetland areas should be maintained to allow for faunal and floral species migration and genetic exchange.  Edge effects of all construction and operational activities, such as erosion and alien plant species proliferation, which may affect floral habitat, need to be strictly managed in all areas of increased ecological sensitivity.  All areas of increased ecological sensitivity should be designated as No-Go areas and be off limits to all unauthorised vehicles and personnel. Vehicles should be restricted to travelling only on designated roadways to limit the ecological footprint of the proposed development activities.  Planning of temporary roads and access routes should take the site sensitivity plan into consideration. If possible, such roads should be constructed a distance from the more sensitive wetland and rocky outcrop areas and not directly adjacent thereto.  It must be ensured that mining related waste or spillage and effluent do not affect the sensitive habitat boundaries and associated buffer zones.  It must be ensured that the mine process water system is managed in such a way as to prevent discharge to the receiving environment.  In the event of a vehicle breakdown, maintenance of vehicles must take place with care and the recollection of spillage should be practiced near the surface area to prevent ingress of hydrocarbons into topsoil and subsequent habitat loss.  Proliferation of alien and invasive species is expected within any disturbed areas. These species should be eradicated and controlled to prevent their spread beyond the mine development footprint areas. Alien plant seed dispersal within the top layers of the soil within footprint areas, that will have an impact on future rehabilitation, has to be controlled.

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 All soils compacted as a result of construction activities falling outside of development footprint areas should be ripped and profiled. Special attention should be paid to alien and invasive control within these areas. Alien and invasive vegetation control should take place throughout all development including decommissioning phases to prevent loss of floral habitat.  To prevent the erosion of top soils, management measures may include berms, soil traps, hessian curtains and stormwater diversion away from areas susceptible to erosion. It must be ensured that topsoil stockpiles are located outside of any drainage lines and areas susceptible to erosion. Stockpiles should be placed away from areas known to contain hazardous substances such as fuel and if any soils are contaminated, it should be stripped and disposed of at a registered hazardous waste dumping site.  All disturbed habitat areas must be rehabilitated and planted with indigenous floral species as soon as possible to ensure that floral ecology is re-instated.

Recommended mitigation measures  During the construction and operational phases of the proposed mining expansion, erosion berms may be installed to prevent gully formation and siltation of the wetland resources. The following points should serve to guide the placement of erosion berms: o Where the track has a slope of less than 2%, berms every 50m should be installed. o Where the track slopes between 2% and 10%, berms every 25m should be installed. o Where the track slopes between 10% and 15%, berms every 20m should be installed. o Where the track has a slope greater than 15%, berms every 10m should be installed.

With Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 3 3 3 4 4 6 11 66 (Medium-

Low) Probable latent impacts:  Proliferation of alien and weed species in disturbed areas will lead to altered vegetation communities within the subject property.  Loss of floral habitat may lead to altered floral biodiversity.  Decrease in floral species diversity may occur throughout the subject property due to habitat transformation as a result of mine development activities.  Ineffective rehabilitation may lead to permanent transformation of floral habitat.

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7.1.2 IMPACT 2: Impact on floral diversity

Activities leading to impact

Pre-Construction Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Poor planning of mine Site clearance and An increase in alien plant New disturbances during infrastructure placement removal of vegetation species leading to altered decommissioning and and design leading to leading to a loss of plant community structure closure overall loss of floral species diversity and composition species Inadequate design of Construction of Erosion and sedimentation Ineffective rehabilitation of infrastructure leading to infrastructure and access as a result of operational exposed and impacted pollution of soils and roads through more activities leading to a loss areas and failure to ground water which may sensitive wetland and of floral species diversity implement alien floral lead to a decrease in plant rocky outcrop areas control leading to ongoing species diversity leading to a loss of plant loss of floral biodiversity species diversity Proliferation of alien Ongoing edge effects Erosion and sedimentation species may alter plant such as alien species as a result of closure and community structure and proliferation and erosion decommissioning activities lead to a loss of floral from mining operations leading to a loss of species diversity. impacting on plant species species diversity diversity Soil compaction as a Increased vehicular and Failure to monitor result of construction pedestrian movement may rehabilitation efforts and activities may alter plant lead to loss of floral implement an alien floral community structure and species control plan composition Heavy vehicle movement Increased fire frequency Increased fire frequency through more sensitive and intensity, as well as and intensity, as well as wetland and rocky outcrop uncontrolled fires during uncontrolled fires during areas impacting on floral mining operations due to closure and biodiversity increased human activity decommissioning impacting on floral impacting on floral communities communities Increased fire frequency Potential blasting and and intensity, as well as drilling during the uncontrolled fires due to construction phase will increased human activity lead to an increase in may impact on plant dust, which may alter floral communities community structure and composition Potential blasting and drilling during the construction phase will lead to an increase in dust, which may alter floral community structure and composition

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Aspects of floral ecology affected

Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Direct impact on floral biodiversity Direct impact on floral biodiversity Direct impact on floral biodiversity during decommissioning Loss of floral biodiversity Loss of floral biodiversity Loss of floral biodiversity Contamination of soils Contamination of soils Ongoing contamination of soils Contamination of ground and Contamination of ground and Ongoing contamination of ground surface water on which wetland surface water and surface water floral species are reliant Compaction and loss of soils leading Compaction and loss of soils leading Compaction and loss of soils during to loss of floral biodiversity to loss of floral biodiversity decommissioning Sedimentation and erosion leading Sedimentation and erosion leading Sedimentation and erosion leading to loss of floral biodiversity to loss of floral biodiversity to loss of floral biodiversity Alteration of floral community Alteration of floral community Alteration of floral community structure due to alien invasion structure due to alien invasion structure due to alien invasion vegetation leading to loss of floral vegetation leading to loss of floral vegetation leading to loss of floral biodiversity biodiversity biodiversity

Without Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 5 3 4 4 5 8 13 104 (High) Essential mitigation measures:  A sensitivity map has been developed for the subject property, indicating wetland and rocky outcrop areas which are considered to be of increased ecological importance. It is recommended that this sensitivity map be considered during all development phases to aid in the conservation of floral habitat within the subject property.  All development footprint areas and areas affected by the proposed mine development should remain as small as possible and should not encroach onto surrounding more sensitive wetland and rocky areas and the associated buffer zones. It must be ensured that these areas are off-limits to construction vehicles and personnel.  Removal of the alien and weed species encountered on the property must take place in order to comply with existing legislation (amendments to the regulations under the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 and Section 28 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998). Removal of species should take place throughout the construction, operational, closure/decommissioning and rehabilitation/ maintenance phases.  Species specific and area specific eradication recommendations: o Care should be taken with the choice of herbicide to ensure that no additional impact and loss of indigenous plant species occurs due to the herbicide used.

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o Footprint areas should be kept as small as possible when removing alien plant species. o No vehicles should be allowed to drive through designated sensitive wetland areas during the eradication of alien and weed species.  Informal fires in the vicinity of mining areas should be prohibited during all development phases. Recommended mitigation measures  It must be ensured that all roads and construction areas are regularly sprayed with water in order to curb dust generation. This is particularly necessary during the dry season when increased levels of dust generation can be expected. These areas should not be over-sprayed causing water run-off and subsequent sediment loss into waterways and drainage lines in the vicinity of the subject property.  The local communities residing within and in the vicinity of the subject property, as well as mining and construction personnel, should be informed about fire control and prevention measures to reduce the frequency of uncontrolled veld fires in areas surrounding and within the subject property. With Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 3 3 3 3 3 6 9 54 (Medium- Low)

Probable latent impacts  Proliferation of alien and weed species in disturbed areas will lead to lowered vegetation biodiversity within the subject property.  Loss of floral habitat may lead to altered floral biodiversity.  A decrease in floral species diversity may occur throughout the subject property due to habitat transformation as a result of development activities.  Ineffective rehabilitation may lead to permanent loss of floral biodiversity.

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7.1.3 IMPACT 3: Impact on important floral species

Activities leading to impact

Pre-Construction Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Planning of infrastructure Site clearance and An increase in alien plant Ineffective rehabilitation of placement and design removal of vegetation species leading to loss of exposed and impacted leading to overall loss of leading to a loss of medicinal, protected and areas and failure to important (medicinal, medicinal, protected and potential RDL floral implement a protected and potential potential RDL floral species by outcompeting comprehensive alien floral RDL) floral species species these species control plan leading to ongoing loss of medicinal, protected and potential RDL floral species

Inadequate design of Construction of Erosion and Continued erosion and infrastructure leading to infrastructure and access sedimentation as a result sedimentation during pollution of soils and roads through wetlands, of operational activities closure and ground water which may rocky outcrops and other leading to a loss of decommissioning leading lead to a loss of important more natural areas important plant species to a loss of important plant species leading to a loss of plant species Vehiclesimportant accessing plant species site Ongoing edge effects through natural veld and from developed areas on more sensitive wetland surrounding more natural and rocky outcrop areas areas leading to impacts on important species that have been left in situ Poor control of vehicular movement and management of edge effects leading to impacts on protected floral species left in situ

Aspects of floral ecology affected

Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Direct impact on medicinal, Direct impact on medicinal, Direct impact on medicinal, protected and potential RDL floral protected and potential RDL floral protected and potential RDL floral species species species during decommissioning Sedimentation and erosion leading Loss of important plant species Loss of important plant species to loss of important plant species Alteration of floral community Sedimentation and erosion leading Sedimentation and erosion leading structure due to alien invasion to loss of important plant species to loss of important plant species vegetation leading to loss of important plant species

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Construction Operational Decommissioning & Closure Alteration of floral community Alteration of floral community structure due to alien invasion structure due to alien invasion vegetation leading to loss of vegetation leading to loss of important plant species important plant species

Without Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 96 5 3 4 3 5 8 12 (Medium- High)

Essential mitigation measures:  A sensitivity map has been developed for the subject property, indicating wetland and rocky outcrop areas which are considered to be of increased ecological importance. It is recommended that this sensitivity map be considered during all development phases to aid in the conservation of floral habitat within the subject property.  All development footprint areas and areas affected by the proposed mine development should remain as small as possible and should not encroach onto surrounding more sensitive wetland and rocky areas and the associated buffer zones. It must be ensured that these areas are off-limits to construction vehicles and personnel.  Sensitive floral species, if discovered, are to be handled with care and the relocation of sensitive plant species is to be overseen by a botanist.  Should any RDL or protected plant species be encountered within the proposed development footprint areas, the following should be ensured: o If any threatened species, or nationally or provincially protected floral will be disturbed, ensure effective relocation of individuals to suitable similar habitat. o All rescue and relocation plans should be overseen by a suitably qualified specialist. o In the case of Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, two new Marula trees are to be planted in suitable habitat for each tree destroyed, should relocation be unsuccessful. If these trees fall within the development footprint or will be affected by closure and decommissioning activities, special authorisation is to be obtained from relevant authorities for such trees to be cut, disturbed, damaged or destroyed. Applications for such activities should be made to the responsible official within the North-West Province.

Recommended mitigation measures:  All sensitive open space areas are to be demarcated.  Any specimens of the protected tree species, Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, known to occur within

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areas in close proximity and potentially impacted by the proposed mine development activities, such species are to be fenced for the duration of the activities.

With Probability Sensitivity of Severity Spatial Duration Likelihood Consequence Significance Management of Impact receiving scale of environment impact 60 3 3 3 2 5 6 10 (Medium- Low)

Probable latent impacts  A decrease in potential RDL/ protected floral species diversity may lead to a loss of species richness over time within the region.

7.2 Impact Assessment Conclusion

Based on the above assessment it is evident that there are three possible impacts on the floral ecology within the subject property. The table below summarises the findings indicating the significance of the impact before management takes place and the likely impact if management and mitigation takes place. In the consideration of mitigation it is assumed that a high level of mitigation takes place but which does not lead to prohibitive costs. From the table it is evident that prior to management measures being put in place, all of the impacts are high and medium-high level impacts. If effective management takes place, all impacts will be reduced to medium-low level impacts.

Table 13: A summary of the results obtained from the assessment of floral ecological impacts Impact Unmanaged Managed 1: Impact on habitat for floral species High Medium-Low 2: Impact on floral diversity High Medium-Low 3: Impact on important species Medium-High Medium-Low

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8. RECOMMENDATIONS

Upon conclusion of the floral assessment, the following recommendations are made:

Development footprint  A sensitivity map has been developed for the subject property, indicating the Wetland and Rocky Outcrop Habitat Units, which are considered to be of increased ecological importance. It is recommended that this sensitivity map be considered during all development phases to aid in the conservation of floral habitat within the subject property.  Such areas of increased ecological importance and sensitivity should be considered during all phases of mine planning and construction activities.  No activities are to infringe upon these sensitive areas or associated buffer zones.  The boundaries of the development footprint areas are to be clearly defined and it should be ensured that all activities remain within defined footprint areas.  Where possible, connectivity between rocky outcrops and wetland areas should be maintained to allow for faunal and floral species migration and genetic exchange.  The proposed development footprint areas should remain as small as possible.  All areas of increased ecological sensitivity should be designated as No-Go areas and be off limits to all unauthorised vehicles and personnel. Vehicles should be restricted to travelling only on designated roadways to limit the ecological footprint of the proposed development activities.  Planning of temporary roads and access routes should take the site sensitivity plan into consideration. Such roads should be constructed a distance from the more sensitive wetland and rocky outcrop areas and not directly adjacent thereto.  It must be ensured that mining related waste or spillage and effluent do not affect the sensitive habitat boundaries and associated buffer zones.

Alien floral species  Edge effects of all construction and operational activities, such as alien plant species proliferation, which may affect floral habitat, need to be strictly managed in all areas of increased ecological sensitivity.  Proliferation of alien and invasive species is expected within any disturbed areas. These species should be eradicated and controlled to prevent their spread beyond the mine development footprint areas. Alien plant seed dispersal within the top layers of the soil within footprint areas, that will have an impact on future rehabilitation, has to be controlled.

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 Removal of the alien and weed species encountered on the property must take place in order to comply with existing legislation (amendments to the regulations under the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 and Section 28 of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998). Removal of species should take place throughout the construction, operational, closure/decommissioning and rehabilitation/ maintenance phases.  Species specific and area specific eradication recommendations: o Care should be taken with the choice of herbicide to ensure that no additional impact and loss of indigenous plant species occurs due to the herbicide used. o Footprint areas should be kept as small as possible when removing alien plant species. o No vehicles should be allowed to drive through designated sensitive wetland areas during the eradication of alien and weed species. Soils  Edge effects of all construction and operational activities, such as erosion, which may affect floral habitat, need to be strictly managed in all areas of increased ecological sensitivity.  It must be ensured that the mine process water system is managed in such a way as to prevent discharge to the receiving environment.  In the event of a vehicle breakdown, maintenance of vehicles must take place with care and the recollection of spillage should be practiced near the surface area to prevent ingress of hydrocarbons into topsoil and subsequent habitat loss.  All soils compacted as a result of construction activities falling outside of development footprint areas should be ripped and profiled. Special attention should be paid to alien and invasive control within these areas. Alien and invasive vegetation control should take place throughout all development including decommissioning phases to prevent loss of floral habitat.  To prevent the erosion of top soils, management measures may include berms, soil traps, hessian curtains and stormwater diversion away from areas susceptible to erosion. It must be ensured that topsoil stockpiles are located outside of any drainage lines and areas susceptible to erosion. Stockpiles should be placed away from areas known to contain hazardous substances such as fuel and if any soils are contaminated, it should be stripped and disposed of at a registered hazardous waste dumping site.  During the construction and operational phases of the proposed mining expansion erosion berms may be installed to prevent gully formation and siltation of the wetland resources. The following points should serve to guide the placement of erosion berms:

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o Where the track has a slope of less than 2%, berms every 50m should be installed. o Where the track slopes between 2% and 10%, berms every 25m should be installed. o Where the track slopes between 10% and 15%, berms every 20m should be installed. o Where the track has a slope greater than 15%, berms every 10m should be installed.

Rehabilitation  All disturbed habitat areas must be rehabilitated as soon as possible to ensure that floral ecology is re-instated.  Reseeding with indigenous grasses should be implemented in all affected areas and strategic planting of bushveld tree species should take place to re-establish microclimates and niche habitats.

Fires  Informal fires in the vicinity of mining activities should be prohibited during all development phases.  It is recommended that the local communities residing within and in the vicinity of the subject property, as well as mining and construction personnel, should be informed about fire control and prevention measures to reduce the frequency of uncontrolled veld fires in areas surrounding and within the subject property.

Dust control  It must be ensured that all roads and construction areas are regularly sprayed with water in order to curb dust generation. This is particularly necessary during the dry season when increased levels of dust generation can be expected. These areas should not be over-sprayed causing water run-off and subsequent sediment loss into waterways and drainage lines in the vicinity of the subject property.

RDL and Protected floral species  Sensitive floral species, if discovered, are to be handled with care and the relocation of sensitive plant species is to be overseen by a botanist.  Should any RDL or protected plant species be encountered within the proposed development footprint areas, the following should be ensured:

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o If any threatened species, or nationally or provincially protected floral will be disturbed, ensure effective relocation of individuals to suitable similar habitat. o All rescue and relocation plans should be overseen by a suitably qualified specialist. o In the case of Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, two new Marula trees are to be planted in suitable habitat for each tree destroyed, should relocation be unsuccessful. If these trees fall within the development footprint or will be affected by closure and decommissioning activities, special authorisation is to be obtained from relevant authorities for such trees to be cut, disturbed, damaged or destroyed. Applications for such activities should be made to the responsible official within the North-West Province.  Any specimens of the protected tree species, Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, known to occur within areas in close proximity and potentially impacted by the proposed mine development activities, such species are to be fenced for the duration of the activities.

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9. REFERENCES

Acocks, J.P.H. (1988) Veld Types of South Africa. Memoirs of the botanical survey of South Africa No. 57. Botanical Research Institute, South Africa. Bromilow, C. (2001) Problem Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria. Coates-Palgrave, K. (2000) Trees of southern Africa – second edition. Struik Publishers, Cape Town. Henderson, L. (2001) Alien Weeds and Invasive plants – A Complete Guide to Declared Weeds and Invaders in South Africa. Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Council Handbook No 12. Pretoria. Langer, R. H. M. and Hill, G. D. (1991) Agricultural Plants – second edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Low, A.B. and Rebelo, A.G. (eds) (1998) Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism, Pretoria Raimondo, D., von Staden, L., Foden, W., Victor, J.E, Helme, NA., Turner, R.C, Kamundi, DA., Manyama, PA. (eds) (2009). Red List Of South African Plants Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria. SANBI (2007) The South African National Biodiversity Institute is thanked for the use of data from the National Herbarium, Pretoria (PRE) Computerised Information System (PRECIS). Tainton, N. (Editor) (1999) Veld Management in South Africa. University of Natal Press, Pietermaritzburg. Threatened Species Programme (2005) Red Data List of South African Plant Species. Available online: http://www.redlist.org. Van Oudtshoorn, F. (1999) Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria. Van Wyk, B. and Malan, S. (1998) Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld. Struik Publishers, Cape Town. Van Wyk, B., van Oudtshoorn, B. and Gericke, N. (1997) Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria. Van Wyk, B. van Wyk, P. and van Wyk, B. (2000) Photographic Guide to Trees of Southern Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.

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Appendix A Expected floral species list for QDS 2527CB and QDS 2527DA

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Table 14: Expected floral species list for the QDS 2527CB supplied by the SANBI Precis Database.

Family Species Threat status Growth forms ACANTHACEAE Barleria pretoriensis C.B.Clarke LC Dwarf shrub, herb ACANTHACEAE Crabbea hirsuta Harv. LC Herb ACANTHACEAE Hypoestes forskaolii (Vahl) R.Br. LC Herb Dwarf shrub, herb, ACANTHACEAE Isoglossa grantii C.B.Clarke LC shrub Justicia anagalloides (Nees) ACANTHACEAE T.Anderson LC Herb ACANTHACEAE Ruellia cordata Thunb. LC Dwarf shrub, herb ACANTHACEAE Thunbergia atriplicifolia E.Mey. ex Nees LC Dwarf shrub, herb Hermbstaedtia odorata (Burch.) AMARANTHACEAE T.Cooke var. odorata LC Herb AMARYLLIDACEAE Crinum graminicola I.Verd. LC Geophyte AMARYLLIDACEAE Cyrtanthus breviflorus Harv. LC Geophyte Ozoroa paniculosa (Sond.) R.& A.Fern. ANACARDIACEAE var. paniculosa LC Shrub, tree Ozoroa paniculosa (Sond.) R.& A.Fern. ANACARDIACEAE var. salicina (Sond.) R.& A.Fern. LC Shrub, tree ANACARDIACEAE Searsia chirindensis (Baker f.) Moffett LC Shrub, tree ANACARDIACEAE Searsia lancea (L.f.) F.A.Barkley LC Shrub, tree Searsia magalismontana (Sond.) ANACARDIACEAE Moffett subsp. magalismontana LC Dwarf shrub Searsia pyroides (Burch.) Moffett var. ANACARDIACEAE pyroides LC APIACEAE Deverra burchellii (DC.) Eckl. & Zeyh. LC Shrub APOCYNACEAE Acokanthera oppositifolia (Lam.) Codd LC Shrub, tree APOCYNACEAE Asclepias densiflora N.E.Br. LC Herb Aspidoglossum glabrescens (Schltr.) APOCYNACEAE Kupicha LC Herb, succulent Geophyte, APOCYNACEAE Brachystelma gracile E.A.Bruce LC succulent APOCYNACEAE Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan LC Shrub Geophyte, herb, APOCYNACEAE Raphionacme galpinii Schltr. LC succulent Sarcostemma viminale (L.) R.Br. subsp. APOCYNACEAE viminale LC Climber, succulent ARALIACEAE Cussonia spicata Thunb. LC Succulent, tree ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus virgatus Baker LC Shrub Dwarf shrub, herb, ASPHODELACEAE Aloe peglerae Schönland EN succulent Geophyte, herb, ASPHODELACEAE Bulbine angustifolia Poelln. LC succulent Kniphofia ensifolia Baker subsp. ASPHODELACEAE ensifolia LC Herb ASTERACEAE Dicoma macrocephala DC. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Doellia cafra (DC.) Anderb. LC Herb Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. burkei var. ASTERACEAE zeyheri (Harv.) Merxm. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum argyrosphaerum DC. LC Herb Helichrysum cerastioides DC. var. ASTERACEAE cerastioides LC Herb

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Family Species Threat status Growth forms ASTERACEAE Helichrysum kraussii Sch.Bip. LC Shrub Helichrysum mixtum (Kuntze) Moeser ASTERACEAE var. mixtum LC Herb Schistostephium heptalobum (DC.) ASTERACEAE Oliv. & Hiern LC Shrub Senecio lydenburgensis Hutch. & Burtt ASTERACEAE Davy LC Herb ASTERACEAE Senecio venosus Harv. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Sonchus maritimus L. NE Herb ASTERACEAE Tagetes minuta L. NE Herb Ursinia nana DC. subsp. leptophylla ASTERACEAE Prassler LC Herb ASTERACEAE Vernonia fastigiata Oliv. & Hiern LC Herb ASTERACEAE Vernonia staehelinoides Harv. LC Shrub, suffrutex BARTRAMIACEAE Philonotis africana (Müll.Hal.) Rehmann ex Paris Bryophyte Geophyte, herb, BLECHNACEAE Blechnum australe L. subsp. australe LC lithophyte BRYACEAE Bryum pycnophyllum (Dixon) Mohamed Bryophyte, epiphyte BUDDLEJACEAE Buddleja saligna Willd. LC Shrub, tree BURMANNIACEAE Burmannia madagascariensis Mart. LC Herb Boscia albitrunca (Burch.) Gilg & Gilg- CAPPARACEAE Ben. LC Shrub, tree Corrigiola litoralis L. subsp. litoralis var. CARYOPHYLLACEAE litoralis LC Herb CELASTRACEAE Maytenus undata (Thunb.) Blakelock LC Shrub, tree CELASTRACEAE Pterocelastrus echinatus N.E.Br. LC Shrub, tree Colchicum melanthoides (Willd.) J.C.Manning & Vinn. subsp. COLCHICACEAE melanthoides LC Geophyte COMBRETACEAE Combretum molle R.Br. ex G.Don LC Tree COMBRETACEAE Combretum zeyheri Sond. LC Shrub, tree Commelina africana L. var. krebsiana COMMELINACEAE (Kunth) C.B.Clarke LC Herb COMMELINACEAE Commelina livingstonii C.B.Clarke LC Herb Floscopa glomerata (Willd. ex Schult. & COMMELINACEAE J.H.Schult.) Hassk. LC Helophyte, herb CONVOLVULACEAE Convolvulus sagittatus Thunb. LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. LC Herb Dwarf shrub, herb, CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea bolusiana Schinz LC succulent Ipomoea coscinosperma Hochst. ex CONVOLVULACEAE Choisy LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea oblongata E.Mey. ex Choisy LC Herb, succulent Ipomoea obscura (L.) Ker Gawl. var. CONVOLVULACEAE obscura LC Herb Xenostegia tridentata (L.) D.F.Austin & Staples subsp. angustifolia (Jacq.) CONVOLVULACEAE Lejoly & Lisowski LC Herb Crassula setulosa Harv. var. setulosa CRASSULACEAE forma setulosa NE Herb, succulent Climber, herb, CUCURBITACEAE Momordica balsamina L. LC succulent

53 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms CYPERACEAE Ascolepis capensis (Kunth) Ridl. LC Cyperoid, herb Cyperoid, herb, CYPERACEAE Carex spicato-paniculata C.B.Clarke LC mesophyte Cyperoid, CYPERACEAE Cyperus congestus Vahl LC helophyte, herb Cyperoid, geophyte, CYPERACEAE Cyperus esculentus L. var. esculentus LC herb, mesophyte Cyperoid, herb, CYPERACEAE Cyperus leptocladus Kunth LC mesophyte Cyperoid, emergent hydrophyte, CYPERACEAE Isolepis fluitans (L.) R.Br. var. fluitans LC helophyte, herb Cyperoid, herb, CYPERACEAE Kyllinga alba Nees LC mesophyte Cyperoid, emergent Schoenoplectus brachyceras (Hochst. hydrophyte, CYPERACEAE ex A.Rich.) Lye LC helophyte, herb Cyperoid, emergent Schoenoplectus muricinux (C.B.Clarke) hydrophyte, CYPERACEAE J.Raynal LC helophyte, herb DICRANACEAE Campylopus pilifer Brid. var. pilifer Bryophyte Climber, geophyte, DIOSCOREACEAE Dioscorea retusa Mast. LC succulent DIPSACACEAE Scabiosa columbaria L. LC Herb Drosera collinsiae N.E.Br. ex Burtt DROSERACEAE Davy LC Carnivore, herb Diospyros lycioides Desf. subsp. EBENACEAE lycioides LC Shrub EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha angustata Sond. LC Dwarf shrub, herb Dwarf shrub, herb, EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha indica L. var. indica LC shrub Dwarf shrub, herb, EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha villicaulis Hochst. LC shrub Dwarf shrub, herb, EUPHORBIACEAE Clutia pulchella L. var. pulchella LC shrub Croton gratissimus Burch. var. EUPHORBIACEAE subgratissimus (Prain) Burtt Davy LC Shrub, tree Euphorbia clavarioides Boiss. var. truncata (N.E.Br.) A.C.White, R.A.Dyer Dwarf shrub, shrub, EUPHORBIACEAE & B.Sloane LC succulent FABACEAE Abrus laevigatus E.Mey. LC Climber FABACEAE Acacia burkei Benth. LC Tree FABACEAE Acacia caffra (Thunb.) Willd. LC Shrub, tree FABACEAE Acacia karroo Hayne LC Shrub, tree FABACEAE Acacia robusta Burch. subsp. robusta LC Tree FABACEAE Alysicarpus zeyheri Harv. LC Herb FABACEAE Burkea africana Hook. LC Tree FABACEAE Chamaecrista biensis (Steyaert) Lock LC Herb Eriosema burkei Benth. ex Harv. var. FABACEAE burkei LC Herb Eriosema pauciflorum Klotzsch var. FABACEAE pauciflorum LC Herb FABACEAE Erythrina lysistemon Hutch. LC Tree

54 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms FABACEAE Indigofera heterotricha DC. LC Dwarf shrub, herb Indigofera hilaris Eckl. & Zeyh. var. FABACEAE hilaris LC Herb Creeper, herb, FABACEAE Indigofera pongolana N.E.Br. LC shrub FABACEAE Lotononis calycina (E.Mey.) Benth. LC Herb Mundulea sericea (Willd.) A.Chev. FABACEAE subsp. sericea LC Shrub, tree Ophrestia oblongifolia (E.Mey.) FABACEAE H.M.L.Forbes var. oblongifolia LC Herb Pearsonia sessilifolia (Harv.) Dummer FABACEAE subsp. sessilifolia LC Dwarf shrub, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia albissima Gand. LC Dwarf shrub, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia caribaea (Jacq.) DC. LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia crassifolia Benth. ex Harv. LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia totta (Thunb.) DC. var. totta LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia venulosa (Hiern) K.Schum. LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Sphenostylis angustifolia Sond. LC Dwarf shrub, herb FABACEAE Stylosanthes fruticosa (Retz.) Alston LC Dwarf shrub, herb Tephrosia capensis (Jacq.) Pers. var. Dwarf shrub, herb, FABACEAE capensis LC shrub Dwarf shrub, herb, FABACEAE Tephrosia multijuga R.G.N.Young LC shrub Tephrosia villosa (L.) Pers. subsp. ehrenbergiana (Schweinf.) Brummitt FABACEAE var. ehrenbergiana LC Dwarf shrub, herb Tylosema esculentum (Burch.) FABACEAE A.Schreib. LC Shrub, succulent FABACEAE Zornia linearis E.Mey. LC Herb Bryophyte, FISSIDENTACEAE Fissidens ovatus Brid. hydrophyte Chironia purpurascens (E.Mey.) Benth. GENTIANACEAE & Hook.f. subsp. humilis (Gilg) I.Verd. LC Herb GLEICHENIACEAE Gleichenia polypodioides (L.) Sm. LC Herb, scrambler HYACINTHACEAE Dipcadi marlothii Engl. LC Geophyte HYACINTHACEAE Dipcadi papillatum Oberm. LC Geophyte HYACINTHACEAE Dipcadi viride (L.) Moench LC Geophyte HYACINTHACEAE Ledebouria cooperi (Hook.f.) Jessop LC Geophyte HYPERICACEAE Hypericum lalandii Choisy LC Herb Apodytes dimidiata E.Mey. ex Arn. ICACINACEAE subsp. dimidiata LC Shrub, tree Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. edulis (Burch. ex Ker Gawl.) IRIDACEAE Oberm. LC Geophyte, herb IRIDACEAE Lapeirousia sandersonii Baker LC Geophyte, herb IRIDACEAE Tritonia nelsonii Baker LC Geophyte, herb LAMIACEAE Acrotome hispida Benth. LC Herb Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. LAMIACEAE gratissimum var. gratissimum LC Herb Ocimum obovatum E.Mey. ex Benth. LAMIACEAE subsp. obovatum var. obovatum LC Herb

55 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms Orthosiphon suffrutescens (Thonn.) LAMIACEAE J.K.Morton LC Herb Pycnostachys reticulata (E.Mey.) LAMIACEAE Benth. LC Herb Shrub, succulent, LAMIACEAE Tetradenia brevispicata (N.E.Br.) Codd LC tree LAMIACEAE Vitex zeyheri Sond. LC Tree LOBELIACEAE Cyphia assimilis Sond. LC Climber, herb LOBELIACEAE Monopsis decipiens (Sond.) Thulin LC Herb LOPHIOCARPACEAE Corbichonia decumbens (Forssk.) Exell LC Herb, succulent Agelanthus natalitius (Meisn.) Polhill & Parasite, shrub, LORANTHACEAE Wiens subsp. natalitius LC succulent LYCOPODIACEAE Lycopodiella cernua (L.) Pic.Serm. LC Geophyte, herb Sphedamnocarpus pruriens (A.Juss.) Szyszyl. subsp. galphimiifolius (A.Juss.) MALPIGHIACEAE P.D.de Villiers & D.J.Botha LC Climber, shrub Sphedamnocarpus pruriens (A.Juss.) MALPIGHIACEAE Szyszyl. subsp. pruriens LC Climber, shrub Abutilon angulatum (Guill. & Perr.) MALVACEAE Mast. var. angulatum LC Shrub MALVACEAE Corchorus argillicola M.J.Moeaha & P.J.D.Winter Herb MALVACEAE Corchorus asplenifolius Burch. LC Herb MALVACEAE Grewia flava DC. LC Shrub MALVACEAE Grewia monticola Sond. LC Shrub, tree MALVACEAE Grewia occidentalis L. var. occidentalis LC Shrub, tree MALVACEAE Grewia subspathulata N.E.Br. LC Shrub MALVACEAE Hermannia burkei Burtt Davy LC Climber, herb MALVACEAE Hermannia floribunda Harv. LC Dwarf shrub, shrub MALVACEAE Hermannia grisea Schinz LC Dwarf shrub MALVACEAE Hermannia quartiniana A.Rich. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus engleri K.Schum. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus lunarifolius Willd. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus marlothianus K.Schum. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus pusillus Thunb. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus sidiformis Baill. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus subreniformis Burtt Davy LC Dwarf shrub, herb MALVACEAE Sida chrysantha Ulbr. LC Dwarf shrub Triumfetta annua L. forma piligera MALVACEAE Sprague & Hutch. NE Herb MALVACEAE Waltheria indica L. LC Herb MELIACEAE Turraea obtusifolia Hochst. LC Climber, shrub, tree MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Frithia pulchra N.E.Br. Rare Succulent MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Khadia acutipetala (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. LC Succulent Limeum viscosum (J.Gay) Fenzl subsp. MOLLUGINACEAE viscosum var. viscosum LC Herb MOLLUGINACEAE Mollugo nudicaulis Lam. NE Herb MORACEAE Ficus ingens (Miq.) Miq. LC Tree MORACEAE Ficus salicifolia Vahl LC Tree

56 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms MYRICACEAE Morella serrata (Lam.) Killick LC Shrub, tree OCHNACEAE Ochna pulchra Hook.f. LC Shrub, tree OLEACEAE Menodora africana Hook. LC Dwarf shrub, herb Olea capensis L. subsp. enervis (Harv. OLEACEAE ex C.H.Wright) I.Verd. LC Shrub Bonatea saundersioides (Kraenzl. & ORCHIDACEAE Schltr.) Cortesi LC Geophyte, herb Satyrium hallackii Bolus subsp. ORCHIDACEAE ocellatum (Bolus) A.V.Hall LC Geophyte, herb OROBANCHACEAE Striga forbesii Benth. LC Herb, parasite Geophyte, herb, OSMUNDACEAE Osmunda regalis L. LC lithophyte Flueggea virosa (Roxb. ex Willd.) Voigt PHYLLANTHACEAE subsp. virosa LC Shrub, tree PHYLLANTHACEAE Phyllanthus incurvus Thunb. LC Dwarf shrub, herb PITTOSPORACEAE Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims LC Shrub, tree PLUMBAGINACEAE Plumbago zeylanica L. NE Shrub POACEAE Aristida adscensionis L. LC Graminoid POACEAE Aristida aequiglumis Hack. LC Graminoid POACEAE Aristida bipartita (Nees) Trin. & Rupr. LC Graminoid POACEAE Arundinella nepalensis Trin. LC Graminoid Brachiaria deflexa (Schumach.) POACEAE C.E.Hubb. ex Robyns LC Graminoid POACEAE Chrysopogon serrulatus Trin. LC Graminoid POACEAE Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. LC Graminoid Dichanthium annulatum (Forssk.) Stapf var. papillosum (A.Rich.) de Wet & POACEAE Harlan LC Graminoid Enneapogon cenchroides (Licht. ex POACEAE Roem. & Schult.) C.E.Hubb. LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis capensis (Thunb.) Trin. LC Graminoid Eragrostis cilianensis (All.) Vignolo ex POACEAE Janch. LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis curvula (Schrad.) Nees LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis heteromera Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis hierniana Rendle LC Graminoid POACEAE Fingerhuthia africana Lehm. LC Graminoid Hyparrhenia dregeana (Nees) Stapf ex POACEAE Stent LC Graminoid POACEAE Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch. LC Graminoid Melinis repens (Willd.) Zizka subsp. POACEAE repens LC Graminoid POACEAE Setaria incrassata (Hochst.) Hack. LC Graminoid POACEAE Sporobolus stapfianus Gand. LC Graminoid POACEAE Stiburus alopecuroides (Hack.) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Tragus berteronianus Schult. LC Graminoid POACEAE Urochloa panicoides P.Beauv. NE Graminoid POLYGALACEAE Polygala hottentotta C.Presl LC Dwarf shrub, herb POLYGONACEAE Persicaria decipiens (R.Br.) K.L.Wilson LC Helophyte, herb

57 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms PORTULACACEAE Portulaca oleracea L. NE Herb, succulent PROTEACEAE Faurea saligna Harv. LC Tree PROTEACEAE Protea gaguedi J.F.Gmel. LC Shrub, tree RHAMNACEAE Berchemia zeyheri (Sond.) Grubov LC Tree RHAMNACEAE Helinus integrifolius (Lam.) Kuntze LC Climber, shrub Ziziphus mucronata Willd. subsp. RHAMNACEAE mucronata LC Shrub, tree Afrocanthium mundianum (Cham. & RUBIACEAE Schltdl.) Lantz LC RUBIACEAE Canthium suberosum Codd LC Shrub Kohautia caespitosa Schnizl. subsp. RUBIACEAE brachyloba (Sond.) D.Mantell LC Herb Pavetta gardeniifolia A.Rich. var. RUBIACEAE subtomentosa K.Schum. LC Shrub, tree Pentanisia angustifolia (Hochst.) RUBIACEAE Hochst. LC Herb Vangueria infausta Burch. subsp. RUBIACEAE infausta LC Tree RUBIACEAE Vangueria parvifolia Sond. Tree RUTACEAE Zanthoxylum capense (Thunb.) Harv. LC Shrub, tree SAPINDACEAE Erythrophysa transvaalensis I.Verd. LC Shrub, tree Cheilanthes viridis (Forssk.) Sw. var. Geophyte, herb, SINOPTERIDACEAE viridis LC lithophyte Pellaea calomelanos (Sw.) Link var. Geophyte, herb, SINOPTERIDACEAE calomelanos LC lithophyte Dwarf shrub, herb, SOLANACEAE Solanum panduriforme E.Mey. LC shrub Bryophyte, SPHAGNACEAE Sphagnum truncatum Hornsch. hydrophyte STRYCHNACEAE Strychnos pungens Soler. LC Shrub, tree THYMELAEACEAE Gnidia capitata L.f. LC Dwarf shrub, shrub Shrub, succulent, URTICACEAE Pouzolzia mixta Solms var. mixta LC tree Vahlia capensis (L.f.) Thunb. subsp. vulgaris Bridson var. linearis E.Mey. ex VAHLIACEAE Bridson LC Herb Chascanum hederaceum (Sond.) VERBENACEAE Moldenke var. hederaceum LC Herb Cyphostemma puberulum (C.A.Sm.) VITACEAE Wild & R.B.Drumm. LC Climber, succulent Cyphostemma sulcatum (C.A.Sm.) Scrambler, VITACEAE J.J.M.van der Merwe LC succulent

Table 15: Expected floral species list for the QDS 2527DA supplied by the SANBI PRECIS Database. Family Species Threat status Growth forms ACANTHACEAE Justicia anagalloides (Nees) T.Anderson LC Herb ACANTHACEAE Ruttya ovata Harv. LC Shrub AMARANTHACEAE Aerva lanata (L.) Juss. ex Schult. LC Herb AMARANTHACEAE Kyphocarpa angustifolia (Moq.) Lopr. LC Herb AMARYLLIDACEAE Haemanthus humilis Jacq. subsp. humilis LC Geophyte AMARYLLIDACEAE Scadoxus puniceus (L.) Friis & Nordal LC Geophyte, herb

58 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms ANACARDIACEAE Lannea discolor (Sond.) Engl. LC Tree ANACARDIACEAE Sclerocarya birrea (A.Rich.) Hochst. LC Tree subsp. caffra (Sond.) Kokwaro ANACARDIACEAE Searsia chirindensis (Baker f.) Moffett LC Shrub, tree ANACARDIACEAE Searsia dentata (Thunb.) F.A.Barkley LC Shrub, tree ANACARDIACEAE Searsia lancea (L.f.) F.A.Barkley LC Shrub, tree ANACARDIACEAE Searsia leptodictya (Diels) T.S.Yi, NE Shrub, tree A.J.Mill. & J.Wen forma leptodictya ANACARDIACEAE Searsia pyroides (Burch.) Moffett var. LC Shrub, tree gracilis (Engl.) Moffett ANACARDIACEAE Searsia pyroides (Burch.) Moffett var. LC pyroides ANACARDIACEAE Searsia rigida (Mill.) F.A.Barkley var. LC Shrub margaretae (Burtt Davy ex Moffett) Moffett ANACARDIACEAE Searsia zeyheri (Sond.) Moffett LC Shrub ANEMIACEAE Mohria vestita Baker LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte ANEURACEAE Riccardia fastigiata (Lehm.) Trevis. Bryophyte, epiphyte ANTHOCEROTACEAE Anthoceros natalensis Steph. Bryophyte APIACEAE Heteromorpha arborescens (Spreng.) LC Shrub, tree Cham. & Schltdl. var. abyssinica (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) H.Wolff APOCYNACEAE Ancylobotrys capensis (Oliv.) Pichon LC Climber, shrub APOCYNACEAE Brachystelma barberae Harv. ex Hook.f. LC Geophyte, succulent APOCYNACEAE Carissa bispinosa (L.) Desf. ex Brenan LC Shrub APOCYNACEAE Pachycarpus concolor E.Mey. subsp. LC Herb, succulent concolor APOCYNACEAE Rauvolfia caffra Sond. LC Tree APOCYNACEAE Stenostelma umbelluliferum (Schltr.) NT Geophyte, herb, S.P.Bester & Nicholas succulent AQUIFOLIACEAE Ilex mitis (L.) Radlk. var. mitis Declining Shrub, tree ARCHIDIACEAE Archidium acanthophyllum Snider Bryophyte ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus angusticladus (Jessop) J.- LC Climber P.Lebrun & Stork ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus flavicaulis (Oberm.) LC Shrub Fellingham & N.L.Mey. subsp. flavicaulis ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus plumosus Baker LC Dwarf shrub ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus transvaalensis (Oberm.) LC Shrub Fellingham & N.L.Mey. ASPARAGACEAE Asparagus virgatus Baker LC Shrub ASPLENIACEAE Asplenium phillipsianum (Kümmerle) LC Geophyte, herb, S.S.Bir , Fraser-Jenk. & J.D.Lovis lithophyte ASTERACEAE Adenostemma caffrum DC. var. caffrum LC Herb, hydrophyte ASTERACEAE Callilepis lancifolia Burtt Davy LC Herb ASTERACEAE Cineraria parvifolia Burtt Davy LC Herb ASTERACEAE Conyza chilensis Spreng. NE Herb ASTERACEAE Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. burkei var. LC Herb zeyheri (Harv.) Merxm. ASTERACEAE Gnaphalium filagopsis Hilliard & B.L.Burtt LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum argyrosphaerum DC. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum difficile Hilliard LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum harveyanum Wild LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum kraussii Sch.Bip. LC Shrub ASTERACEAE Helichrysum nudifolium (L.) Less. var. LC Herb nudifolium ASTERACEAE Helichrysum nudifolium (L.) Less. var. LC Herb

59 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms oxyphyllum (DC.) Beentje ASTERACEAE Helichrysum polycladum Klatt LC Herb ASTERACEAE Helichrysum stenopterum DC. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Nidorella auriculata DC. LC Herb ASTERACEAE Tarchonanthus camphoratus L. LC Shrub, tree ASTERACEAE Tarchonanthus parvicapitulatus LC Shrub, tree P.P.J.Herman ASTERACEAE Xanthium strumarium L. NE Herb AYTONIACEAE Plagiochasma rupestre (J.R.& G.Forst.) Bryophyte Steph. var. volkii Bischl. BARTRAMIACEAE Philonotis africana (Müll.Hal.) Rehmann Bryophyte ex Paris BEGONIACEAE Begonia cucullata Willd. NE Herb BRYACEAE Bryum argenteum Hedw. Bryophyte CELASTRACEAE Gymnosporia buxifolia (L.) Szyszyl. LC Shrub, tree CELASTRACEAE Gymnosporia tenuispina (Sond.) Szyszyl. LC Shrub CELASTRACEAE Maytenus undata (Thunb.) Blakelock LC Shrub, tree CELASTRACEAE Pterocelastrus echinatus N.E.Br. LC Shrub, tree CELASTRACEAE Salacia rehmannii Schinz LC Dwarf shrub CELTIDACEAE Trema orientalis (L.) Blume LC Shrub, tree CHENOPODIACEAE Salsola glabrescens Burtt Davy LC Dwarf shrub, shrub CHRYSOBALANACEAE Parinari capensis Harv. subsp. capensis LC Dwarf shrub COMBRETACEAE Combretum molle R.Br. ex G.Don LC Tree COMBRETACEAE Combretum zeyheri Sond. LC Shrub, tree COMMELINACEAE Aneilema hockii De Wild. LC Herb COMMELINACEAE Commelina africana L. var. lancispatha LC Herb C.B.Clarke COMMELINACEAE Cyanotis lapidosa E.Phillips LC Herb, succulent CONVOLVULACEAE Convolvulus aschersonii Engl. LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea gracilisepala Rendle LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea obscura (L.) Ker Gawl. var. LC Herb obscura CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea papilio Hallier f. LC Herb CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea transvaalensis A.Meeuse LC Herb, succulent CUCURBITACEAE Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & LC Climber, herb, Nakai succulent CUCURBITACEAE Coccinia adoensis (A.Rich.) Cogn. LC Climber, herb, succulent CUCURBITACEAE Peponium caledonicum (Sond.) Engl. LC Climber, herb CYATHEACEAE Alsophila dregei (Kunze) R.M.Tryon Tree CYPERACEAE Ascolepis capensis (Kunth) Ridl. LC Cyperoid, herb CYPERACEAE Bulbostylis burchellii (Ficalho & Hiern) LC Cyperoid, herb, C.B.Clarke mesophyte CYPERACEAE Carex austro-africana (Kük.) Raymond LC Cyperoid, emergent hydrophyte, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Carex spicato-paniculata C.B.Clarke LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Coleochloa setifera (Ridl.) Gilly LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus albostriatus Schrad. LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus capensis (Steud.) Endl. LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus cyperoides (L.) Kuntze subsp. LC Cyperoid, herb, pseudoflavus (Kük.) Lye mesophyte

60 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms CYPERACEAE Cyperus denudatus L.f. var. denudatus LC Cyperoid, emergent hydrophyte, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Cyperus leptocladus Kunth LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus obtusiflorus Vahl var. LC Cyperoid, herb, obtusiflorus mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus rupestris Kunth var. rupestris LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Cyperus sphaerospermus Schrad. LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Fimbristylis dichotoma (L.) Vahl subsp. LC Cyperoid, dichotoma helophyte, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Isolepis costata Hochst. ex A.Rich. LC Cyperoid, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Isolepis fluitans (L.) R.Br. var. fluitans LC Cyperoid, emergent hydrophyte, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Kyllinga alba Nees LC Cyperoid, herb, mesophyte CYPERACEAE Kyllinga melanosperma Nees LC Cyperoid, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Lipocarpha chinensis (Osbeck) Kern LC Cyperoid, emergent hydrophyte, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Rhynchospora brownii Roem. & Schult. LC Cyperoid, helophyte, herb CYPERACEAE Schoenoplectus brachyceras (Hochst. ex LC Cyperoid, emergent A.Rich.) Lye hydrophyte, helophyte, herb DENNSTAEDTIACEAE Microlepia speluncae (L.) T.Moore LC Geophyte, herb DICRANACEAE Campylopus pilifer Brid. var. pilifer Bryophyte DICRANACEAE Campylopus robillardei Besch. Bryophyte DIPSACACEAE Scabiosa columbaria L. LC Herb DRACAENACEAE Sansevieria aethiopica Thunb. LC Geophyte, succulent EBENACEAE Diospyros lycioides Desf. subsp. LC Shrub lycioides ERPODIACEAE Erpodium coronatum (Hook.f. & Wilson) Bryophyte, epiphyte Mitt. subsp. transvaaliense (Broth. & Wager) Magill EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha angustata Sond. LC Dwarf shrub, herb EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha villicaulis Hochst. LC Dwarf shrub, herb, shrub EUPHORBIACEAE Clutia pulchella L. var. pulchella LC Dwarf shrub, herb, shrub EUPHORBIACEAE Croton gratissimus Burch. var. LC Shrub, tree subgratissimus (Prain) Burtt Davy EUPHORBIACEAE Dalechampia capensis A.Spreng. LC Dwarf shrub EUPHORBIACEAE Euphorbia heterophylla L. NE Herb EUPHORBIACEAE Tragia incisifolia Prain LC Herb EUPHORBIACEAE Tragia prionoides Radcl.-Sm. LC Climber, dwarf shrub, herb EUPHORBIACEAE Tragia rupestris Sond. LC Climber, dwarf shrub, herb, shrub FABACEAE Abrus laevigatus E.Mey. LC Climber FABACEAE Acacia erubescens Welw. ex Oliv. LC Shrub, tree

61 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms FABACEAE Acacia karroo Hayne LC Shrub, tree FABACEAE Albizia anthelmintica (A.Rich.) Brongn. LC Shrub, tree FABACEAE Crotalaria laburnifolia L. subsp. australis LC Herb, shrub (Baker f.) Polhill FABACEAE Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & Arn. LC Shrub, tree subsp. africana Brenan & Brummitt var. africana FABACEAE Dumasia villosa DC. var. villosa LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Melolobium microphyllum (L.f.) Eckl. & LC Dwarf shrub, shrub Zeyh. FABACEAE Ophrestia oblongifolia (E.Mey.) LC Herb H.M.L.Forbes var. oblongifolia FABACEAE Otholobium nigricans C.H.Stirt. LC Shrub FABACEAE Rhynchosia albissima Gand. LC Dwarf shrub, herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia monophylla Schltr. LC Herb FABACEAE Rhynchosia nitens Benth. ex Harv. LC Shrub FABACEAE Rhynchosia sordida (E.Mey.) Schinz LC Dwarf shrub, herb, shrub FABACEAE Rhynchosia totta (Thunb.) DC. var. totta LC Climber, herb FABACEAE Sesbania transvaalensis J.B.Gillett LC Herb FABACEAE Tylosema esculentum (Burch.) LC Shrub, succulent A.Schreib. FISSIDENTACEAE Fissidens sciophyllus Mitt. Bryophyte GERANIACEAE Pelargonium luridum (Andrews) Sweet LC Geophyte, succulent GLEICHENIACEAE Gleichenia polypodioides (L.) Sm. LC Herb, scrambler HYACINTHACEAE Ledebouria ovatifolia (Baker) Jessop LC Geophyte HYPNACEAE Isopterygium leucophanes (Hampe ex Bryophyte, epiphyte Müll.Hal.) A.Jaeger HYPNACEAE Isopterygium leucopsis (Müll.Hal.) Paris Bryophyte, epiphyte HYPNACEAE Isopterygium punctulatum Broth. & Bryophyte, epiphyte Wager HYPOXIDACEAE Hypoxis rigidula Baker var. pilosissima LC Geophyte Baker ICACINACEAE Apodytes dimidiata E.Mey. ex Arn. LC Shrub, tree subsp. dimidiata IRIDACEAE Freesia grandiflora (Baker) Klatt LC Geophyte, herb IRIDACEAE Gladiolus dalenii Van Geel subsp. dalenii LC Geophyte, herb IRIDACEAE Gladiolus sericeovillosus Hook.f. subsp. LC Geophyte, herb calvatus (Baker) Goldblatt IRIDACEAE Gladiolus vinosomaculatus Kies LC Geophyte, herb JUNCACEAE Juncus exsertus Buchenau LC Helophyte, herb LAMIACEAE Ocimum americanum L. var. americanum LC Herb LAMIACEAE Ocimum obovatum E.Mey. ex Benth. LC Herb subsp. obovatum var. obovatum LAMIACEAE Plectranthus hereroensis Engl. LC Herb LAMIACEAE Rotheca louwalbertsii (P.P.J.Herman) LC Herb P.P.J.Herman & Retief LAMIACEAE Syncolostemon pretoriae (Gürke) LC Herb D.F.Otieno LAMIACEAE Vitex zeyheri Sond. LC Tree LENTIBULARIACEAE Utricularia livida E.Mey. LC Carnivore, herb LESKEACEAE Lindbergia viridis Dixon Bryophyte, epiphyte LYCOPODIACEAE Lycopodiella cernua (L.) Pic.Serm. LC Geophyte, herb LYTHRACEAE Nesaea sagittifolia (Sond.) Koehne var. LC Dwarf shrub sagittifolia MALPIGHIACEAE Sphedamnocarpus pruriens (A.Juss.) LC Climber, shrub Szyszyl. subsp. pruriens

62 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms MALVACEAE Abutilon angulatum (Guill. & Perr.) Mast. LC Shrub var. macrophyllum (Baker f.) Hochr. MALVACEAE Abutilon galpinii A.Meeuse LC Dwarf shrub MALVACEAE Abutilon sonneratianum (Cav.) Sweet LC Shrub MALVACEAE Corchorus argillicola M.J.Moeaha & Herb P.J.D.Winter MALVACEAE Corchorus asplenifolius Burch. LC Herb MALVACEAE Grewia flava DC. LC Shrub MALVACEAE Grewia flavescens Juss. LC Shrub MALVACEAE Grewia monticola Sond. LC Shrub, tree MALVACEAE Grewia occidentalis L. var. occidentalis LC Shrub, tree MALVACEAE Grewia subspathulata N.E.Br. LC Shrub MALVACEAE Hermannia burkei Burtt Davy LC Climber, herb MALVACEAE Hermannia depressa N.E.Br. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hermannia floribunda Harv. LC Dwarf shrub, shrub MALVACEAE Hermannia quartiniana A.Rich. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus engleri K.Schum. LC Herb MALVACEAE Hibiscus subreniformis Burtt Davy LC Dwarf shrub, herb MALVACEAE Melhania prostrata DC. LC Dwarf shrub MALVACEAE Sida cordifolia L. subsp. cordifolia LC Dwarf shrub MALVACEAE Sida dregei Burtt Davy LC Dwarf shrub, herb MALVACEAE Triumfetta annua L. forma piligera NE Herb Sprague & Hutch. MALVACEAE Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq. var. LC Herb, shrub rhomboidea MELASTOMATACEAE Antherotoma debilis (Sond.) Jacq.-Fél. LC Herb MELIACEAE Turraea floribunda Hochst. LC Shrub, tree MELIACEAE Turraea obtusifolia Hochst. LC Climber, shrub, tree MESEMBRYANTHEMACEAE Khadia acutipetala (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. LC Succulent METEORIACEAE Squamidium brasiliense (Hornsch.) Bryophyte, epiphyte Broth. MORACEAE Ficus abutilifolia (Miq.) Miq. LC Shrub, tree OCHNACEAE Ochna holstii Engl. LC Tree OCHNACEAE Ochna pulchra Hook.f. LC Shrub, tree OLEACEAE Olea capensis L. subsp. enervis (Harv. LC Shrub ex C.H.Wright) I.Verd. OLEACEAE Olea europaea L. subsp. africana (Mill.) LC Shrub, tree P.S.Green OLEANDRACEAE Oleandra distenta Kunze LC Herb, lithophyte OPHIOGLOSSACEAE Ophioglossum polyphyllum A.Braun LC Geophyte, herb OROBANCHACEAE Striga forbesii Benth. LC Herb, parasite OSMUNDACEAE Osmunda regalis L. LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte PALLAVICINIACEAE Symphyogyna brasiliensis Nees & Mont. Bryophyte PASSIFLORACEAE Adenia digitata (Harv.) Engl. LC Climber, dwarf shrub, shrub, succulent PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora edulis Sims NE Climber PEDALIACEAE Sesamum triphyllum Welw. ex Asch. var. LC Herb triphyllum PILOTRICHACEAE Callicostella tristis (Müll.Hal.) Broth. Bryophyte, epiphyte PILOTRICHACEAE Cyclodictyon vallis-gratiae (Hampe ex Bryophyte Müll.Hal.) Kuntze PITTOSPORACEAE Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims LC Shrub, tree PLUMBAGINACEAE Plumbago zeylanica L. NE Shrub POACEAE Alloteropsis semialata (R.Br.) Hitchc. LC Graminoid subsp. semialata POACEAE Andropogon eucomus Nees LC Graminoid

63 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms POACEAE Andropogon schirensis Hochst. ex LC Graminoid A.Rich. POACEAE Aristida adscensionis L. LC Graminoid POACEAE Bothriochloa bladhii (Retz.) S.T.Blake LC Graminoid POACEAE Bothriochloa insculpta (Hochst. ex LC Graminoid A.Rich.) A.Camus POACEAE Brachiaria xantholeuca (Schinz) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Chloris virgata Sw. LC Graminoid POACEAE Chrysopogon serrulatus Trin. LC Graminoid POACEAE Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. LC Graminoid POACEAE Diandrochloa namaquensis (Nees) De LC Graminoid Winter POACEAE Dichanthium annulatum (Forssk.) Stapf LC Graminoid var. papillosum (A.Rich.) de Wet & Harlan POACEAE Digitaria ternata (A.Rich.) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Digitaria velutina (Forssk.) P.Beauv. LC Graminoid POACEAE Echinochloa colona (L.) Link LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis barrelieri Daveau NE Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis heteromera Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Eragrostis nindensis Ficalho & Hiern LC Graminoid POACEAE Hyparrhenia anamesa Clayton LC Graminoid POACEAE Hyparrhenia dregeana (Nees) Stapf ex LC Graminoid Stent POACEAE Hyparrhenia hirta (L.) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Hyparrhenia nyassae (Rendle) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Ischaemum afrum (J.F.Gmel.) Dandy LC Graminoid POACEAE Leptochloa eleusine (Nees) Cope & LC Graminoid N.Snow POACEAE Melinis repens (Willd.) Zizka subsp. LC Graminoid repens POACEAE Oplismenus hirtellus (L.) P.Beauv. LC Graminoid, scrambler POACEAE Paspalum distichum L. LC Graminoid POACEAE Paspalum urvillei Steud. NE Graminoid POACEAE Phragmites australis (Cav.) Steud. LC Graminoid POACEAE Setaria lindenbergiana (Nees) Stapf LC Graminoid POACEAE Setaria sphacelata (Schumach.) Stapf & LC Graminoid C.E.Hubb. ex M.B.Moss var. torta (Stapf) Clayton POACEAE Sorghum versicolor Andersson LC Graminoid POACEAE Stipagrostis uniplumis (Licht.) De Winter LC Graminoid var. neesii (Trin. & Rupr.) De Winter POACEAE Tragus berteronianus Schult. LC Graminoid POACEAE Urochloa mosambicensis (Hack.) Dandy LC Graminoid POLYGONACEAE Emex australis Steinh. NE Herb POLYGONACEAE Persicaria attenuata (R.Br.) Soják subsp. LC Helophyte, herb, africana K.L.Wilson hydrophyte POLYGONACEAE Persicaria decipiens (R.Br.) K.L.Wilson LC Helophyte, herb POLYGONACEAE Persicaria lapathifolia (L.) Gray NE Helophyte, herb, hydrophyte POLYGONACEAE Rumex sagittatus Thunb. LC Climber, herb POTTIACEAE Trichostomum brachydontium Bruch Bryophyte PROTEACEAE Faurea saligna Harv. LC Tree PROTEACEAE Protea welwitschii Engl. LC Dwarf shrub, shrub PTERIDACEAE Pteris catoptera Kunze var. catoptera LC Geophyte, herb PTYCHOMITRIACEAE Ptychomitrium crispatum (Hedw.) Bryophyte A.Jaeger

64 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms RHAMNACEAE Phylica paniculata Willd. LC Shrub, tree RHAMNACEAE Ziziphus mucronata Willd. subsp. LC Shrub, tree mucronata RICCIACEAE Riccia albolimbata S.W.Arnell Bryophyte RICCIACEAE Riccia atropurpurea Sim Bryophyte RICCIACEAE Riccia okahandjana S.W.Arnell Bryophyte ROSACEAE Prunus africana (Hook.f.) Kalkman VU Tree ROSACEAE Rubus rigidus Sm. LC Shrub RUBIACEAE Canthium suberosum Codd LC Shrub RUBIACEAE Pentanisia angustifolia (Hochst.) Hochst. LC Herb RUBIACEAE Psydrax livida (Hiern) Bridson LC Shrub, tree RUBIACEAE Rothmannia capensis Thunb. LC Tree RUBIACEAE Rubia horrida (Thunb.) Puff LC Herb RUBIACEAE Tricalysia lanceolata (Sond.) Burtt Davy LC Shrub, tree RUBIACEAE Vangueria infausta Burch. subsp. LC Tree infausta RUBIACEAE Vangueria parvifolia Sond. Tree RUTACEAE Zanthoxylum capense (Thunb.) Harv. LC Shrub, tree SALICACEAE Dovyalis zeyheri (Sond.) Warb. LC Shrub, tree SALICACEAE Scolopia zeyheri (Nees) Harv. LC Shrub, tree SANTALACEAE Osyris lanceolata Hochst. & Steud. LC Shrub SAPOTACEAE Englerophytum magalismontanum LC Shrub, tree (Sond.) T.D.Penn. SAPOTACEAE Mimusops zeyheri Sond. LC Shrub, tree SCROPHULARIACEAE Halleria lucida L. LC Shrub, tree SCROPHULARIACEAE Jamesbrittenia burkeana (Benth.) Hilliard LC Shrub, suffrutex SCROPHULARIACEAE Zaluzianskya elongata Hilliard & LC Herb B.L.Burtt SELAGINELLACEAE Selaginella dregei (C.Presl) Hieron. LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Cheilanthes hirta Sw. var. hirta LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Cheilanthes involuta (Sw.) Schelpe & LC Geophyte, herb, N.C.Anthony var. obscura (N.C.Anthony) lithophyte N.C.Anthony SINOPTERIDACEAE Cheilanthes viridis (Forssk.) Sw. var. LC Geophyte, herb, glauca (Sim) Schelpe & N.C.Anthony lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Cheilanthes viridis (Forssk.) Sw. var. LC Geophyte, herb, viridis lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Pellaea calomelanos (Sw.) Link var. LC Geophyte, herb, calomelanos lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Pellaea dura (Willd.) Hook. var. dura LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte SINOPTERIDACEAE Pellaea pectiniformis Baker LC Geophyte, herb, lithophyte SOLANACEAE Solanum aculeatissimum Jacq. LC Shrub SOLANACEAE Solanum mauritianum Scop. NE Shrub, tree SOLANACEAE Solanum panduriforme E.Mey. LC Dwarf shrub, herb, shrub STRYCHNACEAE Strychnos pungens Soler. LC Shrub, tree THELYPTERIDACEAE Thelypteris confluens (Thunb.) LC Geophyte, herb, C.V.Morton hydrophyte URTICACEAE Obetia tenax (N.E.Br.) Friis LC Shrub, succulent, tree URTICACEAE Pouzolzia mixta Solms var. mixta LC Shrub, succulent, tree VELLOZIACEAE Xerophyta viscosa Baker LC Herb VERBENACEAE Lantana rugosa Thunb. LC Shrub

65 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Family Species Threat status Growth forms VERBENACEAE Lippia javanica (Burm.f.) Spreng. LC Shrub VERBENACEAE Lippia scaberrima Sond. LC Herb VISCACEAE Viscum rotundifolium L.f. LC Parasite, shrub, succulent VITACEAE Cyphostemma lanigerum (Harv.) Desc. LC Climber, succulent ex Wild & R.B.Drumm. VITACEAE Cyphostemma sandersonii (Harv.) Desc. LC Climber, succulent VITACEAE Cyphostemma sulcatum (C.A.Sm.) LC Scrambler, J.J.M.van der Merwe succulent VITACEAE Rhoicissus revoilii Planch. LC Climber, shrub, tree VITACEAE Rhoicissus tridentata (L.f.) Wild & NE Shrub R.B.Drumm. subsp. tridentata XYRIDACEAE Xyris capensis Thunb. LC Helophyte, herb, hydrophyte XYRIDACEAE Xyris congensis Büttner LC Helophyte, herb, hydrophyte

66 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Appendix B Vegetation Index Score

67 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Vegetation Index Score – Transformed Habitat Unit

1. EVC=[[(EVC1+EVC2)/2] EVC 1 - Percentage natural vegetation cover:

Vegetation cover % 0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Site score X EVC 1 score 0 1 2 3 4 5

EVC2 - Total site disturbance score:

Very Very Disturbance score 0 Low Low Moderately High High Site score X EVC 2 score 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. SI=(SI1+SI2+SI3+SI4)/4)

Trees Shrubs Forbs Grasses

(SI1) (SI2) (SI3) (SI4) Perceived Perceived Perceived Perceived Present Present Present Present Score: Reference Reference Reference Reference State State State State State State State State Continuous X Clumped X X X Scattered X X X X Sparse

Present State (P/S) = Currently applicable for each habitat unit Perceived Reference State (PRS) = If in pristine condition

Each SI score is determined with reference to the following scoring table of vegetation distribution for present state versus perceived reference state.

Present

state (P/S) Perceived Reference state Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse (PRS) Continuous 3 2 1 0 Clumped 2 3 2 1

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SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Scattered 1 2 3 2 Sparse 0 1 2 3

3. PVC=[(EVC)-((exotic x 0.7) + (bare ground x 0.3)) Percentage vegetation cover (exotic):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Percentage vegetation cover (bare ground):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. RIS Extent of Very indigenous species 0 Low Moderate High Very High Low recruitment X

RIS 0 1 2 3 4 5

VIS = [( EVC )+(( SIxPVC )+( RIS ))] = 5

The final VIS scores for each habitat unit are then categorised as follows:

Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified

5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive

<5 F Modified completely

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SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Vegetation Index Score – Rocky Outcrop Habitat Unit

1. EVC=[[(EVC1+EVC2)/2] EVC 1 - Percentage natural vegetation cover:

Vegetation cover % 0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Site score X EVC 1 score 0 1 2 3 4 5

EVC2 - Total site disturbance score:

Very Very Disturbance score 0 Low Low Moderately High High Site score X EVC 2 score 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. SI=(SI1+SI2+SI3+SI4)/4)

Trees Shrubs Forbs Grasses

(SI1) (SI2) (SI3) (SI4) Perceived Perceived Perceived Perceived Present Present Present Present Score: Reference Reference Reference Reference State State State State State State State State Continuous X X Clumped X X X X X X Scattered Sparse

Present State (P/S) = Currently applicable for each habitat unit Perceived Reference State (PRS) = If in pristine condition

Each SI score is determined with reference to the following scoring table of vegetation distribution for present state versus perceived reference state.

Present

state (P/S) Perceived Reference state Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse (PRS) Continuous 3 2 1 0 Clumped 2 3 2 1

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Scattered 1 2 3 2 Sparse 0 1 2 3

3. PVC=[(EVC)-((exotic x 0.7) + (bare ground x 0.3)) Percentage vegetation cover (exotic):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Percentage vegetation cover (bare ground):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. RIS Extent of Very indigenous species 0 Low Moderate High Very High Low recruitment X

RIS 0 1 2 3 4 5

VIS = [( EVC )+(( SIxPVC )+( RIS ))] = 19

The final VIS scores for each habitat unit are then categorised as follows:

Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified

5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive

<5 F Modified completely

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SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Vegetation Index Score - Wetland Habitat Unit

1. EVC=[[(EVC1+EVC2)/2] EVC 1 - Percentage natural vegetation cover:

Vegetation cover % 0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Site score X EVC 1 score 0 1 2 3 4 5

EVC2 - Total site disturbance score:

Very Very Disturbance score 0 Low Low Moderately High High Site score X EVC 2 score 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. SI=(SI1+SI2+SI3+SI4)/4)

Trees Shrubs Forbs Grasses

(SI1) (SI2) (SI3) (SI4) Perceived Perceived Perceived Perceived Present Present Present Present Score: Reference Reference Reference Reference State State State State State State State State Continuous Clumped X X X X X Scattered X X X Sparse

Present State (P/S) = Currently applicable for each habitat unit Perceived Reference State (PRS) = If in pristine condition

Each SI score is determined with reference to the following scoring table of vegetation distribution for present state versus perceived reference state.

Present

state (P/S) Perceived Reference state Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse (PRS) Continuous 3 2 1 0 Clumped 2 3 2 1

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Scattered 1 2 3 2 Sparse 0 1 2 3

3. PVC=[(EVC)-((exotic x 0.7) + (bare ground x 0.3)) Percentage vegetation cover (exotic):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Percentage vegetation cover (bare ground):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. RIS Extent of Very indigenous species 0 Low Moderate High Very High Low recruitment X

RIS 0 1 2 3 4 5

VIS = [( EVC )+(( SIxPVC )+( RIS ))] = 15

The final VIS scores for each habitat unit are then categorised as follows:

Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified 5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive <5 F Modified completely

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Vegetation Index Score – Scattered Bushveld Habitat Unit

1. EVC=[[(EVC1+EVC2)/2] EVC 1 - Percentage natural vegetation cover:

Vegetation cover % 0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Site score X X EVC 1 score 0 1 2 3 4 5

EVC2 - Total site disturbance score:

Very Very Disturbance score 0 Low Low Moderately High High Site score X EVC 2 score 5 4 3 2 1 0

2. SI=(SI1+SI2+SI3+SI4)/4)

Trees Shrubs Forbs Grasses

(SI1) (SI2) (SI3) (SI4) Perceived Perceived Perceived Perceived Present Present Present Present Score: Reference Reference Reference Reference State State State State State State State State Continuous X X Clumped X X X X X X Scattered Sparse

Present State (P/S) = Currently applicable for each habitat unit Perceived Reference State (PRS) = If in pristine condition

Each SI score is determined with reference to the following scoring table of vegetation distribution for present state versus perceived reference state.

Present

state (P/S) Perceived Reference state Continuous Clumped Scattered Sparse (PRS) Continuous 3 2 1 0 Clumped 2 3 2 1

74 SAS 213199 - SECTION B November 2013

Scattered 1 2 3 2 Sparse 0 1 2 3

3. PVC=[(EVC)-((exotic x 0.7) + (bare ground x 0.3)) Percentage vegetation cover (exotic):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

Percentage vegetation cover (bare ground):

0% 1-5% 6-25% 26-50% 51-75% 76-100% Vegetation cover % X PVC Score 0 1 2 3 4 5

4. RIS Extent of Very indigenous species 0 Low Moderate High Very High Low recruitment X

RIS 0 1 2 3 4 5

VIS = [( EVC )+(( SIxPVC )+( RIS ))] = 18

The final VIS scores for each habitat unit are then categorised as follows:

Vegetation Index Score Assessment Class Description 22 to 25 A Unmodified, natural 18 to 22 B Largely natural with few modifications. 14 to 18 C Moderately modified 10 to 14 D Largely modified

5 to 10 E The loss of natural habitat extensive

<5 F Modified completely

75