Buchu
Over the past three years a total of 52 ha of Buchu were established with plantations spreading over three farming units. Climatic conditions, soil type and availability of sufficient water resources were all carefully considered before deciding on a specific area of propagation. Our aim is to have 100 ha established by end 2007, producing a total of 500-tonnes of raw plant material or the equivalent of 6-tonnes of essential oils. The plantation utilise the latest technology in irrigation and computerised fertilisation -monitoring systems.
Hoodia
Afriplex has already started harvesting Hoodia plantations from two farms established in the Ceres-Karoo region. The company aims to have 20 ha Hoodia under cultivation by the end of 2006, expanding to 100 ha.
Aloe ferox and Pelargonium sidoides
Afriplex has invested in specific floral areas of the Southern and Eastern Cape with the aim of securing Aloe ferox and other Aloe species endemic to this region. These species are harvested on an annual, sustainable basis under the supervision of South African Nature Conservation. A variety of products and by-products are produced on the farms, then shipped to Afriplex’s processing facility to be refined into ingredients for the food and cosmetic industries.
Our Pelargonium sidoides plantations are situated in the Eastern Cape as well as on the Lesotho Highland. The plant is harvested on a three-year sustainable basis to allow re-growth.