SA wonder plant removes more CO2 than Amazon

Can one plant make a difference?

The magical plant known as the Spekboom is starting a revolution and inspiring locals to do their part to combat climate change, one potted plant at a time.

Simbithi Eco-Estate recently joined the #SpekboomChallenge and is calling on neighbouring North Coast estates to join in on the movement that could make our world a better place.

Also known as Pork Bush or Elephant’s Food, this tree of wonder has the ability to absorb the highest amounts of carbon dioxide when compared to any other plant.

A healthy thicket of this treasure trove is said to be ten times more effective at removing carbon dioxide from the air than the Amazon jungle, which is known as the lungs of the earth for its contribution to cleaning the air and removing carbon dioxide.

According to Simbithi’s facilities, maintenance and environmental manager, Gary McKenzie, the Spekboom can live up to 200 years and has the ability to adapt to its surroundings, ensuring a long and beneficial life once planted.

It is also an edible plant with very high nutritional value that can be used in many ways.

If all of this wasn’t enough to inspire your love for Spekboom, it is also a highly water-wise plant, needing up to half the water of other plants to survive, meaning its not only easy to grow but also easy for those living in areas suffering from droughts or water shortages to care for.

“It may look like an ordinary, small-leaved plant but many have referred to it as a ‘miracle’ plant. Some communities use it for medicinal purposes, and in the wild it is favoured by elephants, kudu and black rhino for its nutrients.

To take part in the Spekboom Challenge, share your newly planted Spekboom on social media with the tag #SpekboomChallenge.

With 500-million tonnes of carbon emitted each year in South Africa this wonder plant has the potential to make an environmental change and help fight climate change over the coming decades.

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