A new report by TRAFFIC reveals a silent but urgent crisis facing South Africa's rare succulent plants. The illegal trade of these endangered botanical treasures has surged, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Between 2019 and May 2024, over 1.6 million illegally harvested succulents, representing more than 650 species, were seized in South Africa. This alarming trend is pushing some of the world's most iconic plants to the brink of extinction.

The Rising Demand

Southern Africa is home to some of the world's rarest and most resilient succulents, species that have thrived in harsh desert climates for millennia. However, as the global demand for exotic houseplants grows, these unique plants are now under threat. The increase in social media usage and online marketplaces has made it easier for traffickers to exploit plant enthusiasts around the globe, particularly in regions like the UK, Europe, Asia, and the United States. Many buyers unknowingly contribute to the destruction of local ecosystems and communities that rely on these plants for survival.

A Shocking Theft

One of the most shocking incidents in the illegal trade of succulents involved a South Korean national who was arrested in Cape Town for attempting to smuggle 60,000 rare Conophytum succulents, some of which were hundreds of years old. This case exemplifies the growing problem of illegal plant trafficking, with some thieves targeting the most sought-after species in the world.

The Threat to Heritage

Dominique Prinsloo, TRAFFIC's Project Manager in South Africa, emphasized the deep cultural and ecological significance of these plants. "These plants are part of the soul and heritage of South Africa," she said. To protect these treasures, there is an urgent need for enhanced detection and enforcement tools, as well as stricter regulations around online plant trading. TRAFFIC is actively working to raise awareness of this issue and is advocating for improved policies to combat the illegal plant trade.

Global Collaborative Efforts

TRAFFIC, alongside the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and the UK's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), is working on a variety of initiatives aimed at addressing succulent plant trafficking. These include the development of innovative tools for detecting illegal trade and partnerships with online platforms like eBay to remove illegal listings. In addition, TRAFFIC is collaborating with South African government agencies to implement the National Response Strategy and Action Plan. This plan seeks to tackle the growing pressure from illegal harvesting and provide sustainable solutions for conserving South Africa's succulent flora.

The Role of Consumers

While governmental and organizational efforts are crucial, the role of consumers is also vital in combating the illegal trade. By purchasing plants from certified, sustainable sources, consumers can help reduce the demand for illegally harvested succulents. Supporting conservation efforts through informed decisions is a simple yet powerful way to ensure that these iconic plants are protected for future generations.

The illegal trade of succulents is a significant threat to biodiversity, ecosystems, and local communities. As global demand for these unique plants continues to rise, it is essential that both authorities and consumers act to safeguard the future of South Africa's rare succulents and protect them from extinction.