News

South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with the SANParks Honorary Rangers – Table Mountain Region, has planted 1,000 Tetragonia decumbens shrubs at the Boulders Penguin Colony as part of an ongoing habitat rehabilitation initiative. The seeds were collected from Boulders and germinated at the Cape of Good Hope Nursery before being replanted at the colony.

Commonly known as dune spinach or sea spinach, Tetragonia decumbens is an indigenous coastal shrub found along South Africa’s coastline. Beyond its edible leaves, the species plays a vital ecological role in maintaining healthy coastal ecosystems.

The planting project is aimed at restoring and stabilising the colony’s natural habitat. The shrub helps bind and strengthen sand dunes, reducing erosion and creating favourable conditions for the growth of other indigenous plant species. These efforts contribute to a healthier, more resilient environment that supports African penguins and other coastal wildlife.

The initiative underscores SANParks’ continued commitment to biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration, and the long-term protection of one of South Africa’s most significant African penguin breeding sites.

Boulders Beach, situated within Table Mountain National Park, is internationally recognised as a critical conservation area for the critically endangered African penguin. It is also one of South Africa’s most iconic natural attractions, drawing visitors from around the world while serving as an important refuge for the species.

Through collaborative conservation efforts such as this, SANParks continues to strengthen and preserve habitats that are essential for the survival and recovery of South Africa’s unique biodiversity.