Succulent Industry Project

Currently, the succulent industry is managed privately (different partners). The core focus is to establish a succulent hub in the area for growing and exporting for various use. This will introduce the beauty under one roof – for example, some succulents can be harvested or used for medicinal purposes, others for cosmetic use, or a botanical succulent garden can even be developed (depending on the area). The aim is to ensure a healthy functioning natural system and to restore and reinforce the natural beauty of the species.

Over the past decade, succulents have soared in popularity, thanks to the growing demand for alternative medicines, as well as gardeners seeking out drought-tolerant, easy-to-grow plants. The annual Vetplantfees (Succulent Festival) hosted in Calitzdorp is a good opportunity to showcase many of South Africa’s beautiful and rare succulents together with succulents from all over the world. This opportunity has the potential to attract local as well as international tourists as well as establish a thriving succulent industry in the region.