Assessor: Sarah Schumann
According to the SANBI Red List Assessment, this species is Rare as it is highly range restricted and not thought to be threatened (Scott-Shaw & Victor, 2006). 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. Another species of this genus is known to be removed from the wild for medicinal purposes (Williams & Crouch, 2008). Several species of this genus were among those targeted and/or confiscated during recent criminal prosecutions of illegal plant collecting (Confiscation lists (2016-2021) provided by SANBI Karoo Desert Botanical Garden, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and Cape Nature). This suggests that this genus may be targeted and that rare species may be at risk to over-exploitation and removal from the wild.
Scott-Shaw, C.R. & Victor, J.E. 2006. Drimia flagellaris T.J.Edwards, D.Styles & N.R.Crouch. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.
Williams, V.L. & Crouch, N.R. 2008. Drimia echinostachya (Baker) Eggli & N.R.Crouch. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.
This taxon has an extent of occurrence of 30 km² and population is thought to be stable (Scott-Shaw & Victor, 2006). Further population data is unavailable.
Rarity and range restriction makes this species vulnerable to population loss, were exploitation to occur.