Hilliardiella oligocephala which used to previously be Vernonia oligocephala. Hilliardiella oligocephala is used to make an infusion called ubulawu (Zulu word for hallucinogenic) is made of the leaves, roots and stems and then taken orally or used as tea. It was also used as a remedy for mild diabetes. 
Pachycarpus E. Mey. is an African genus found in the grasslands south of the Sahara. The distinctive characteristic of this species are the umbellate flowers - an inflorescence that consists of a number of short flower stalks which spread from a common point, somewhat like umbrella ribs. Umbel comes from Latin umbella which means "parasol, sunshade 
Tritoniopsis antholyza is also known as the rooipypie in Afrikaans, is has 15 or more beautiful scarlet flowers that grow on opposite sides of the flower spike. While on safari these flowers will definitely catch your eye as they stand about 450mm high. These gorgeous plants are flowering at present on the reserve and can be found flowering at anyt 
Brunia noduliflora is a beautiful, summer flowering fynbos shrub. The large creamy white flowers heads are bright and prominent in the Gondwana landscape where they occur. These delightful shrubs attract bees and insects and are teaming with life. 
Leucospermum cordifoluim is in full flower on the reserve during Summer. Leucospermum cordifolium is reliant on fire to germinate its seed and in turn produce new plants.Leucospermum cordifolium has a fascinating ecology. The flowers produce sweet nectar that attracts insects and birds. Sugar birds and sun birds feed on the nectar and the insects 
On the 25th September the GCF (Gondwana Conservation Foundation) team hosted an event in honour of World Rhino Day. 200 Children from local schools in the area (Isalathiso Primary School, Imekhaya Primary School, T.M. Ndanda Primary School, Herbertsdale Primary and St Lukes Primary School), were shuttled to the reserve for a fun-filled day of conse 
Drimia exuviata also known as Gifbol. Plants can reach up to 1m long. The flowers are pleasantly scented and white or sometimes pinkish with a dark brown-green line. They enjoy growing on loamy soils. Some Drimia species have been used for medicinal proposes and some are highly toxic to domestic stock. 
Hermannia filifolia also known as Broodblom. Plants flower in spring and are abundant in clay soils. The smooth grey-green leaves are strap shaped and grouped in tufts. Plants flower in spring and summer after rain. The red flowers are twister whish is characteristic of Hermannias and are about 10mm in diameter. And the calyx lobes flare out when f 
Stoebe plumosa also known as Slangbos is found growing abundantly in different areas of the reserve. It has distinct white woolly leaves that are densely packed in clusters on the stems. Flowers are insignificant. Plants flower in winter and autumn. It favours loamy and sandy soils on disturbed sites in Renosterveld, Waboom veld, Protea and Grassy 
Photography: Raquel de Castro Maia