Plant Species

Plant Indigenous plants in your garden

Planting indigenous plants in your garden supports our local flora and limits the number of invasive species entering our natural spaces. An indigenous garden will help to create a healthy ecosystem and support biodiversity.

Non-indigenous flowers and trees may look good in our gardens, but they often require a lot of work and use a lot more water. They also provide little or no food for honeybees, indigenous pollinators, songbirds, and other endemic wildlife, which sadly leads to the reduction of our bird and bee populations. Often non-indigenous plants grow faster than indigenous species, displacing them and suppressing the endemic flora.

Planting indigenous plants at home and work has many benefits including:

  • They’re drought-resistant
    Indigenous plants have adapted to our dry climate and can survive in poor soil conditions during the drought season. Non-indigenous plants use a lot of water, so by planting indigenous you also save water during times of drought.
  • They attract Indigenous birds
    Many indigenous plants attract birds and wildlife with their blooms, scent, fruit, and insect life. By planning your indigenous garden carefully, you’ll create a safe and natural environment for abundant life. 
  • You can preserve our natural habitat and heritage
    The Western Cape is home to some of the most unique flower species in the world. By planting indigenous, you play a role in preserving our indigenous flora.
  • They attract Indigenous pollinators like bees and songbirds
    Indigenous trees and fynbos attract pollinators and birds that will spread pollen and seeds and in turn, create a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Fact’s about South Africa’s Flora

The Cape Floral Region covers 0.5% of Africa, but is home to 20% of its flora.
The Cape Floral Region covers 553 000ha of land.
70% of the Cape Floral Region’s plants can be found nowhere else on earth. 20% of there are currently threatened.

Plant species permitted

A minimum of 70% indigenous plant material is to be used in gardens with preference given to locally indigenous species.

Plant species not permitted

The following may NOT be planted at any location on the Estate :

Palm trees, Exotic Conifer Trees and shrubs, and any plant listed as alien invasive plant species according to the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act. (File size 12Mb)

For a list of weeds and invader plants please go here.

Blue Mountain Village and Gardens Indigenous Plant List

Plants that are not listed will not be permitted unless approved by the DRC and HOA.