The unique pollination strategies of plants ensure their survival

South Africa is filled with an array of remarkable plant species. Landscape designer Leon Kluge spoke to Magda du Toit about this mysterious world of flora and the tricks they have developed to attract pollinators in order to survive.

- Magda du Toit

Beetle daisy (Gorteria diffusa) flowers have markings that mimic female monkey beetles.

FAST FACTS

South Africa is the hub for the world's flora, says landscape and garden designer Leon Kluge.

The diversity of pollinators found in nature ensures the sustained provision of pollination services to a diversity of plant species.

Plants use a number of methods to entice pollinators, such as producing sweet-smelling fragrances and sugary nectar.

South Africa's diverse landscapes are home to a unique and astounding variety of fauna and flora. "South Africa is the hub for the world's flora. Across the globe, South African plant species are planted in gardens and used as cut flowers," says Leon Kluge, an award-winning South African landscape and garden designer.

Speaking at a South African National Parks Honorary Rangers online seminar in April, Kluge pointed out that plants and animals are closely linked.

"Fauna and flora are interconnected: the one needs the other to survive. People need to be introduced to plants and made aware of this relationship.

"Communities, especially those in the agriculture sector, need to know more about plants before they can understand and fall in love with them."

Well-known South African landscape designer Leon Kluge studying a scarlet candelabra flower (Brunsvigia marginata). The red colour attracts the mountain pride butterfly (Aeropetes tulbaghia).

KNOW YOUR POLLINATORS