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Haworthiopsis glauca

Assessor: Sarah Schumann

Sensitive in 2010
No
Family
Asphodelaceae
Reason for the sensitivity status
This taxon is known to be wild collected for the horticultural trade to a minor extent. This taxon is widespread and variable with some distinct forms being sensitive and/or targeted. Several others of the genus are known to be targeted, exploited and illegally removed from the wild, causing population decline. Evidence shows that the Haworthiopsis genus is in demand in international horticultural trade. As this taxon is widespread and variable with insignificant exploitation, recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be possible.
Exploitation extent
Small or insignificant - wild individuals of the species are known to be exploited, collected, traded or utilized in a targeted manner, but utilisation is localised and/or affects only a small proportion of the wild population.
Justification and references

According to the SANBI Red List Assessment, this species is of Least Concern as it is widespread and not in danger of extinction (von Staden, 2014). This taxon is widespread and variable with a number of regional forms that have not received widespread taxonomic recognition. Some of the more distinct forms may be sensitive/targeted (S. Molteno, personal communication, 12 August 2022). This taxon is known to be wild collected for the horticultural trade to a minor extent (S. Molteno, personal communication, 12 August 2022). Several others of the genus were among those targeted and confiscated during recent criminal prosecutions of illegal plant collecting (Confiscation Lists (2019-2022) provided by Cape Nature, SANBI Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden and SANBI Karoo Desert Botanic Garden). This genus is currently in demand and of popular interest in horticultural trade, as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. 

von Staden, L. 2014. Haworthiopsis glauca (Baker) G.D.Rowley. 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 known from over 40 subpopulations and grows in remote areas  (S. Molteno, personal communication, 12 August 2022).

Targeted demographics
Mature (breeding) and immature individuals are not killed, are not significantly weakened (the harvesting methods do not do harm), and are not permanently removed from the wild.
Justification and references

Cuttings are taken (S. Molteno, personal communication, 12 August 2022).

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 variable with insignificant exploitation, recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be possible.

Reference file
haworthiopsis _ eBay.pdf447.72 KB
Haworthiopsis glauca Threatened Species Programme _ SANBI Red List of South African Plants.pdf522.42 KB
Haworthiopsis search results.pdf1.42 MB
Haworthiopsis.pdf1.91 MB