Kniphofia umbrina, called the Eswati poker, is a species of flowering plant in the genus Kniphofia.[2] The species is native to an area near Forbes Reef in Eswatini, just to the north of Mbabane.[1]
Plants are herbaceous perennials which may grow up to 1.8 metres (5.9ft) tall. Stems emerge from a thick rhizome, with 6-8 leaves per stem.[1] Flowers are brown, slightly scented, and form a raceme. It is similar in characteristics to Kniphofia typhoides.[3]
Habitat
The species is native to sourveld, rocky grassland in a temperate climate.[1] Soils in the area are acidic, high in clay and organic matter, and serpentiferous.[4] Their observed distribution covers approximately 40 square kilometres (15mi2). The habitat falls on Swazi Nation Land, as well as on the Hawane Nature Reserve.[5]
Conservation
The species was first listed by the IUCN as vulnerable in 1978 after a detailed survey. There were between 3,000 and 4,000 estimated individuals. The population was initially threatened by maize cultivation and road construction.[1] Conservation measures were undertaken, including translocating individuals into Malolotja Nature Reserve and collecting seeds.[5] The population of 1,900 transplants eventually went extinct.[4]
Between 1978 and 1985, the population declined 92%, down to only 357 known plants. This was attributed to increased pressure by grazing, agriculture, and the construction of a dam. In 2001, the species was reassessed as critically endangered.[4]
12"Endemic Flora: Kniphofia umbrina". eswatininaturereserves.com. Eswatini National Trust Commission. Archived from the original on August 15, 2021. Retrieved 15 August 2021.
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