We’ve had an absolutely spectacular spekboom flowering season this past January; so much so that we feel inspired to share more about these miraculous plants with you.
Portulacaria afra, commonly known as spekboom, has received a lot of buzz in the media over the past few years. This shrub, which is native to South Africa, has been recognised and popularised for its function as the ultimate carbon dioxide (CO₂) sponge – with one plant absorbing up to 5 tonnes of CO₂ per year.
This fact – when viewed in the light of ever-increasing greenhouse gas emissions resulting in global warming – captured the attention of environmentalists the world over. Here was a plant that could actually make a difference to our combined plight!
Spekboom is hardy, low on water consumption, drought resistant, nutritious to bushveld animals and, most importantly, a natural converter of one of the gases (CO₂) chiefly responsible for global warming.
And while this ‘little shrub that could’ has been incorporated in gardens across the country, it has always been native to and present in the Eastern Cape, particularly in the arid Karoo region.
Our Spekboom Journey
Kuzuko Private Game Reserve is a prime example of what can happen when nature is given the space it needs to thrive.
Our story begins in 2001, when 22 farms were transformed into the 35 000-acre reserve you see today. In order to reintroduce species like elephants, buffalo and lions to the area (after a 150-year absence), our focus needed to be on rehabilitating and rewilding the land.
We’ve done this through a number of conservation projects, but the largest to date remains the Spekboom Reforestation Project.
By The Numbers
Here are some stats related to our spekboom reforestation project. As far as we know, it’s the largest of its kind to be undertaken on South African soil.
2 The time (in years) it took for us to complete this project.
200 The number of planters involved in the reforestation project.
12 000 The number of acres across which our spekboom cuttings were planted.
26 million The number of spekboom cuttings planted.
Grow Your Own Spekkie!
As a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plant, spekboom is grown in gardens across South Africa, particularly in places with arid climates. With that said, spekboom is notoriously adaptable and will take to most gardens.
1. Take a Cutting: Snip a piece of spekboom that’s 5-8 cm long. Make sure to use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
2. Plant the Cutting: Stick the cutting directly into the soil (or sand). You don’t need to wait for roots to form before planting, as spekboom roots easily in the ground.
3. Choose the Right Spot: Spekboom can make a home of most gardens and soil types. They do, however, not cope well with frost. So bear this in mind before selecting a spot for your spekkie.
4. Watering: Water the cutting lightly and regularly, but don’t overdo it—this succulent prefers well-drained soil and doesn’t like sitting in water.
5. Enjoy Its Growth: The plant grows into a shrub, though it can become a small tree over time. It’s hardy and easy to care for.
Uses: Spekboom is perfect for hedging, ground cover in dry areas or planting in rock gardens. It also does well as an indoor plant!
Stay With Us
Spekboom is more than just a plant; it’s a natural powerhouse in the fight against climate change. By incorporating it into our landscapes, we can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for all.
Join us at Kuzuko Lodge and experience an authentic slice of the Karoo – from wildlife encounters and nature walks to fascinating conservation projects that bolster and uplift our country’s remarkable natural heritage – we’ve got an avenue of connection to the bush to suit every personality.
Browse our accommodation options and book your stay via our online booking platform.
Alternatively, if you’d like to get in touch prior to your booking, don’t hesitate to email our friendly reservations team at reservations@kuzuko.com.
