Back to search results

Pelargonium asarifolium

Assessor: Sarah Schumann

Sensitive in 2010
No
Family
Geraniaceae
Reason for the sensitivity status
This species is widespread and is not thought to be in favour by collectors. Several others of the genus are known to be targeted, exploited and illegally removed from the wild, causing population decline. Evidence shows that the pelargonium genus is in demand in international horticultural trade. As exploitation is not thought to be occurring and it does not have a vulnerable population size, it is not sensitive.
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 Vulnerable as it is threatened by ongoing habitat loss and degradation (Helme & von Staden, 2013). This species is widespread and is not thought to be in favour by collectors (van der Walt, R personal communication, 12 August 2022). This genus is in demand and of popular 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 criminal prosecutions of illegal plant collecting. There have been several recorded confiscations of Pelargonium species from illegal collection (Confiscation List (2018-2022) provided by Cape Nature, SANParks Sendelingsdrift Botanic Garden, SANBI Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and Karoo Desert Botanic Garden). 

Helme, N.A. & von Staden, L. 2013. Pelargonium asarifolium (Sweet) Loudon. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.

Population vulnerability
Population is vulnerable: size is <= 2500 mature individuals OR the number of known subpopulations is <= 5 OR range is <= 100km2 OR species at risk of localised extinctions
Justification and references

This taxon is thought to be widespread (van der Walt, R personal communication, 12 August 2022).

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 exploitation is not thought to be occurring and it does not have a vulnerable population size, it is not sensitive.

Reference file
Pelargonium _ eBay.pdf561.91 KB
Pelargonium African Succulents.pdf408.87 KB
Pelargonium Aucfan.pdf854.01 KB
Pelargonium asarifolium Threatened Species Programme _ SANBI Red List of South African Plants.pdf758.13 KB