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The high stakes of protecting rare and indigenous plants

The high stakes of protecting rare and indigenous plants
29-01-25 / Tommy Jackson

The high stakes of protecting rare and indigenous plants

South Africa’s rare plant species, like the Clivia mirabilis, are facing unprecedented threats, with poaching driving an 80% decline in the population of this Succulent Karoo species within a year. Experts link the crisis to international markets, particularly in Asia, where rare plants fetch high prices. Conservationists are calling for urgent action to curb the illegal trade and safeguard these treasures.

“Collectors of rare plants, along with homeowners who own valuable indigenous collections, should take note of these events,” says Tarina Vlok, MD at Elite Risk Acceptances, a high-net-worth insurer and subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure. “If anything, they show that plants are in demand, and it is worthwhile for homeowners to assess the potential risks around their outdoor areas, whether from owning sought-after or indigenous plants that require permits or owning extravagant water and statue features. The great news that many might not be aware of is that insurance covers your garden and outdoor assets, offering protection against accidental damage, theft, fire, and impact."

What does this mean for collectors and owners of rare and indigenous plants, beyond just Clivia mirabilis?

In 2014, the most expensive Clivia ever sold was the Broad-Leaved Chinese Daruma, which fetched a staggering R800,000. In South Africa, a Clivia known as China Char’s reached a record price of R45,000 on auction. The value of rare Clivias can vary significantly based on their uniqueness, lineage, and demand among collectors. For instance, in 2006, a single Clivia plant called ‘Charl’s Green’ sold for R36,000, while a Chinese grower once advertised a broad-leaf Clivia on eBay for a staggering $2.9 million in 2009.

These figures highlight the growing importance of safeguarding rare and valuable plants, whether exotic, endangered, or indigenous. This includes trees that are hundreds of years old, like Yellowwoods, or highly curated collections such as bonsais.

“It’s important for plant collectors and homeowners to ensure their prized greenery is adequately covered,” says Vlok. “While all policies provide extensions for gardens, limits apply. Many homeowners may not realise that specialised insurance policies often provide limited cover for gardens in cases of damage or theft, depending on the cause. Some insurers even specify specific loss events, such as fire, theft, or malicious damage.”

Tarina recommends that homeowners speak with their brokers to review their insurance policies and understand any exclusions and a good rule of (green) thumb is not to assume that your outdoor assets are always covered by standard insurance policies.

Homeowner policies usually cover theft of or certain damages to plants, trees, pots, or lavish statues for example, while specialist insurers could potentially give wider cover to rare and valuable plants.

She highlights the importance of keeping proof of purchase, obtaining appraisals, and maintaining detailed records of each plant’s value. "Recent photos of your plants, trees or collections can also serve as useful documentation. While insurance can’t replace sentimental value, homeowners can agree on a set value with their insurer for financial compensation if a loss occurs," she explains.

She says another tip for homeowners is to purchase they buy high-value plants from a reputable source like an accredited nursery or supplier.

“If you had to have a claim event, you may be negatively affected if it turns out you contributed to illegal trade, even if it was unknowingly done.”

“Knowledge is power and understanding your policy is of utmost importance so that your gardens are adequately protected, and you are not in left in the lurch if suffering a loss,” concludes Vlok.

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