This initiative is not merely a replacement effort — it’s about celebrating what makes Prince Albert special and ensuring a sustainable future for our environment and tourism-based economy. Invasive plants like the Mexican agave, introduced a century ago to combat erosion, have become a problem. Declared alien under South Africa’s Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, agaves require permits for planting — permits rarely granted due to their ecological impact. Their dense root systems and prolific baby plants disrupt the soil, while their thorns harm livestock, as seen when a local farmer lost sheep to bacterial infections from cactus pricks.
Similarly, pale cacti along Die Gang near the blueberry farm have ensnared birds. There are no natural predators to keep these invasive species in check. Even familiar garden plants like Africanas (Mexican marigolds) and European hollyhocks, while pretty, lack the ecological balance provided by local flora, leaving our insects and birds without their natural partners.
Sue Milton-Dean, a passionate advocate for Karoo biodiversity, explains why this matters: “Our fauna doesn’t understand invasive plants. They don’t support the insects or birds that keep ecosystems in balance.” To counter this, Sue has introduced a specialised fungus from Rhodes University’s biocontrol department to weaken invasive cacti by sapping their vitality — a process that may take a decade but promises lasting results.
Meanwhile, the Municipality is replacing these invaders with plants indigenous to Prince Albert, like those at the e-Centre, which are not just native to the Karoo but unique to our town. Imagine strolling through Prince Albert shaded by a Rooi Karee, an evergreen with no thorns, perfect for cooling courtyards. Or the Soetdoring, a fast-growing tree with striking white thorns, offering shade with minimal water.
The drought-tolerant Worsboom, shedding leaves only once a year, and the vibrant Boerboon, with its bird-attracting red flowers, are hardy choices that embody our region’s resilience. These plants don’t just survive — they thrive, supporting local wildlife and showcasing the Karoo’s unique beauty to tourists.
We invite every resident to join this movement. Transform your garden into a proudly Prince Albert space by choosing local indigenous plants. Not only will you save water and support biodiversity, but you’ll also help our town stand out as a beacon of Karoo authenticity.
Let’s make Prince Albert a living celebration of its natural heritage — one tree and plant at a time.
