Adromischus liebenbergii subsp. orientalis

Assessor: Sarah Schumann

Sensitive in 2010
No
Family
Crassulaceae
Reason for the sensitivity status
There have been several recorded confiscations of liebenbergii species and others of the Adromischus genus from illegal collection. This genus is in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade. As this taxon does not have a vulnerable population size and it is not thought to be threatened, were exploitation to occur, recruitment and recovery may be possible.
Exploitation extent
Uncertain - No data exists yet showing that this species is exploited in the wild, however it has one or more relatives or look-alike species (found in South Africa or globally) that are known to be utilised. This species has a similar life form or other relevant traits to its exploited relative(s), making it highly likely that it would be exploited for the same purposes.
Justification and references

According to the SANBI Red List Assessment, this species is Rare as it is a range restricted, locally abundant endemic that is not experiencing significant threat (von Staden, 2017). This genus is in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade, as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. There have been several recorded confiscations of liebenbergii species and others of the Adromischus genus from illegal collection (Confiscation List (2018-2022) provided by Cape Nature and SANBI Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden). This suggests that this genus and species is being targeted and that this subspecies may be at risk.

von Staden, L. 2017. Adromischus liebenbergii Hutchison subsp. orientalis Van Jaarsv. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. 

Population vulnerability
Population is not vulnerable: size is > 2500 mature individuals, AND the number of known subpopulations is > 5 AND range > 100km2
Justification and references

This taxon has an extent of occurrence of 80-290 km² and is thought to be locally abundant (von Staden, 2017).

von Staden, L. 2017. Adromischus liebenbergii Hutchison subsp. orientalis Van Jaarsv. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. 

Targeted demographics
Unknown.
Regeneration potential
This species has a fast population growth rate, and there is a good chance the wild populations will recover from exploitation.
Justification and references

As this taxon does not have a vulnerable population size and it is not thought to be threatened, were exploitation to occur, recruitment and recovery may be possible.