The Bredasdorp / Napier Branch is the southernmost branch of the Botanical Society of South Africa and is situated in the heart of the Overberg, approximately 200 km southeast of Cape Town. Though small, our branch is dedicated to preserving our rich floral heritage and the members take great pride in their environment.
The many private, regional and national reserves attest to the uniqueness of this area. This part of the Overberg has a very rich and varied fynbos and wildlife. Three major different kinds of fynbos are to be found within a small area.
ELIM FYNBOS:
The vegetation of the Elim fynbos is confined to the Southern Overberg. The historic town of Elim and the Geelkop Nature Reserve lie in the middle of this unique vegetation. Many endemics are to be found here.
LIMESTONE FYNBOS:
The limestone fynbos is a vegetation type that is restricted to the limestone outcrops which stretch from the Gansbaai in the west to Gouritz River in the east. The Bredasdorp district lies in the centre of the endemic-rich vegetation. Mimetes saxatilis but one of these endemics. This vegetation includes approximately 110 plant species which are only found on these outcrops.
ACID SAND FYNBOS:
There are a number of rare endemics which can be found in this more common fynbos vegetation type. Many orchids can also be seen.