Haworthia cymbiformis var. obtusa | SANBI Sensitive Species

Assessor: Sarah Schumann

Sensitive in 2010

Family

Asphodelaceae

Reason for the sensitivity status

This variety is known to be wild collected for the horticultural trade. Several others of the genus are known to be targeted, exploited and illegally removed from the wild, causing population decline. Evidence shows that the Haworthia genus is in demand in international horticultural trade. As this taxon is widespread and does not have a vulnerable population size, recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be possible.

Exploitation extent

Significant - wild individuals of the species are known to be exploited, collected, traded or utilized in a targeted manner, and utilisation is widespread, affects the majority of wild populations and/or is causing rapid decline of the wild population.

Justification and references

The taxonomy of this genus is not yet fully resolved. Taxonomic boundaries are often unclear and the taxa themselves are often immensely variable. The assessment information is therefore subject to the taxon status and recognition (Molteno, S Personal communication, 12 August 2022). This variety is known to be sought after and wild collected (Molteno, S Personal communication, 12 August 2022). This genus is in demand and of interest in international horticultural trade, as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. Plants of this genus were among those targeted and confiscated during a recent criminal prosecution of illegal plant collecting. There have been several recorded confiscations of species of the Haworthia genus from illegal collection (Confiscation List (2018-2021) provided by Cape Nature and SANBI Karoo Desert Botanical Garden).

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 is known from 6 subpopulations (Molteno, S Personal communication, 12 August 2022).

Targeted demographics

Mature (breeding) individuals are killed, significantly weakened or are permanently removed from the wild, OR immature individuals are targeted and this significantly impacts mature (breeding) individuals.

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 is widespread and does not have a vulnerable population size, recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be possible.