Ornithogalum vallis-gratiae | SANBI Sensitive Species

Assessor: Sarah Schumann

Sensitive in 2010

Family

Hyacinthaceae

Reason for the sensitivity status

Several others of the Ornithogalum genus were among those targeted and confiscated during criminal prosecutions of illegal plant collecting. This genus is currently in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade. As this species is thought to be common and widespread, recruitment and recovery from exploitation 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 of Least Concern as it is widespread, common and not thought to be threatened (von Staden, 2019). This genus is currently in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade, as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. Several species of this genus were among those targeted and/or confiscated during recent criminal prosecutions of illegal plant collecting (Confiscation lists (2021) provided by SANBI Karoo Desert Botanical Garden, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and SANParks Sendelingsdrift Botanic Garden). This suggests that this genus may be targeted and that this species may be at risk to exploitation.

von Staden, L. 2019. Ornithogalum schlechterianum Schinz. 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 is thought to be widespread and common (von Staden, 2019). Specific population data on this species is not available.

von Staden, L. 2019. Ornithogalum schlechterianum Schinz. 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 species is thought to be widespread and common (von Staden, 2019)- if exploitation were to occur, recruitment and recovery may be possible.

von Staden, L. 2019. Ornithogalum schlechterianum Schinz. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.

Reference file

Ornithogalum vallis-gratiae Threatened Species Programme _ SANBI Red List of South African Plants.pdf716.47 KB

ornithogalum _ eBay.pdf800.52 KB

Ornithogalum aucfan.pdf509.83 KB