Unmasking the plants that don’t belong — and why they’re a real danger to biodiversity
Not all greenery is good for the veld. Hidden among the native grasses and shrubs of Mabalingwe are plants that don’t belong here — and their presence threatens the balance of our ecosystems.
These are alien invasive plant species, introduced accidentally or intentionally from other regions. Once established, they spread rapidly, displace indigenous plants, and reduce the veld’s ability to support healthy wildlife populations.
What Are Alien Invasive Plants?
Alien plants are species not naturally found in South Africa. Many were brought in for ornamental use, livestock feed, or erosion control. Unfortunately, some adapted too well — outcompeting local vegetation and altering soil and water conditions.
At Mabalingwe, we monitor and actively manage several invasive species that can transform natural veld into unproductive land if left unchecked.
Common Invaders at Mabalingwe
Below are some of the most problematic alien species found on the reserve:
Lantana camara (Lantana)
- A shrub with bright pink and orange flowers.
- Extremely hardy and poisonous to most animals.
- Forms dense thickets that choke out grasses and native shrubs.
Datura stramonium (Thorn Apple / Olieboom)
- Recognizable by its white trumpet-shaped flowers and spiny seed pods.
- Highly toxic to humans and wildlife.
- Spreads easily along disturbed soils and roadsides.
Tagetes minuta (Kakiebos)
- A tall, strong-smelling annual weed.
- Reduces grazing capacity and taints milk if consumed by livestock.
- Thrives in disturbed or overgrazed areas.
Opuntia spp. (Prickly Pear / Turksvy)
- Spiny cactus that spreads through seeds and vegetative cuttings.
- Forms impenetrable barriers that block wildlife movement.
- Very difficult to eradicate once established.
Solanum mauritianum (Bugweed)
- Shrubby plant with soft, velvety leaves and clusters of purple flowers.
- Competes aggressively with indigenous trees.
- Poisonous and prolific — each plant can produce thousands of seeds.
How We Control Invasive Species at Mabalingwe
Combating invaders requires consistency, patience, and teamwork. Our management approach includes:
- Mechanical Removal – Plants are uprooted or cut down before seeding.
- Chemical Control – Herbicides applied to stumps and regrowth to prevent resprouting (using approved, environmentally responsible products).
- Follow-up Monitoring – Cleared areas are checked regularly for regrowth or seedling invasion.
- Rehabilitation – Cleared patches are reseeded with indigenous grasses to restore natural cover.
Why This Matters
Invasive species might seem harmless at first, but their impact is far-reaching:
- They reduce biodiversity by crowding out native plants.
- They decrease veld productivity by suppressing palatable grasses.
- They disrupt natural fire cycles and alter soil chemistry.
- Some are toxic, posing direct risks to wildlife and livestock.
By controlling alien plants, Mabalingwe helps preserve the veld’s natural balance — ensuring that our grasslands remain productive, diverse, and resilient.
Every alien plant removed is a step toward ecological recovery.
Through ongoing teamwork and monitoring, Mabalingwe continues to restore the integrity of its ecosystems — one plant at a time.