The bark, leaves, and roots of indigenous tree species in Africa form the backbone of traditional medicine, providing remedies passed down through generations. However, indiscriminate harvesting is threatening ecosystems and the livelihoods of millions of people.

In South Africa, the traditional medicine industry generates R2.9 billion annually and serves 27 million people. Duane Roothman, Vice President of Sappi Forests, says while commercial forestry helps meet timber demand sustainably, the company is actively conserving natural forest patches and investing in research to reintroduce rare tree species threatened by overharvesting.

“This Arbour Month, we’re spotlighting the indigenous forest patches that make up 7% of our land holdings and the steps we’re taking to protect and manage them. These biodiverse areas play a vital role in supporting wildlife, preserving rare plant species, and maintaining ecological balance. We’re working closely with biodiversity experts to help them thrive,” Roothman explains.

Sappi launched its Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species (RTES) Programme in 2014 to protect South Africa’s most vulnerable plant species. Initially focused on Warburgia salutaris, a medicinal tree threatened by wild harvesting, the programme has successfully cultivated and distributed thousands of nursery-grown plants to ease harvesting pressure and support long-term conservation.

Building on this success, the programme now includes four additional species, each with unique propagation challenges. Among the new additions are

• Ocotea bullata (Black Stinkwood)
• Prunus africana (Red Stinkwood)
• Curtisia dentata (Assegai).

Early research at Sappi’s Shaw Research Centre has shown promising results for Prunus and Curtisia, with over 70% rooting success. However, Ocotea bullata is more difficult to propagate due to its slow growth and chemical defences, prompting a shift toward seed-based conservation.

To ensure genetic diversity, Sappi is establishing a genetically diverse conservation seed orchard using wild-sourced material from its own landholdings. This effort is supported by permits and collaboration with local nurseries. Efforts to collect viable Ocotea seed include canopy monitoring, GPS mapping, and experimental grafting.

As propagation protocols for Prunus africana and Curtisia dentata near completion, the RTES Programme is preparing to add new species such as Cryptocarya woodii (Cape Laurel) and Cryptocarya latifolia (Wild Quince). These trees are increasingly used by traditional healers as substitutes for Ocotea bullata, highlighting the ripple effects of overharvesting.

By proactively expanding the programme, Sappi aims to safeguard not just individual species, but the broader ecosystems and cultural practices that depend on them.