Propagation and cultivation practices of honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) for the sustainable production of an export quality indigenous South African tea

Abstract

AbstractHoneybush (Cyclopia) species are endemic to the Fynbos Biome of the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa. Traditionally, honeybush foliage is cut, fermented, and sun‐dried to make an antioxidant‐rich herbal tea. Approximately 80% of honeybush is unsustainably harvested from the wild. All commercial species are indicated on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. Cultivation is thus required to ensure sufficient volumes of tea are produced. A major limitation to cultivation is the poor rooting responses of the species that regenerate from shoots, C. genistoides and C. intermedia, the latter being the most harvested from the wild. The establishment of clonally propagated material is a challenge for all six of the commercially important Cyclopia species. Research on honeybush has mainly focused on the unique properties contributing to flavor, medicinal value, as well as processing. Much less is known about propagation, nutrient requirements, harvesting procedures, plant improvement, and pest and disease management. This review considers management strategies for the sustainable harvesting of wild honeybush and the potential risks of introducing improved plant material. Cultivation practices and management strategies that promote longevity and enhance yield are defined. The inherent rooting ability of cuttings is discussed. Cultivated stands are mostly established by seedlings which results in diversity of vigor and tea quality. A sustainable market based on high‐quality indigenous tea requires the use of clonal material which allows the selection of desired traits and rapid multiplication. Its use would enable improved yield and profitability without compromising tea quality.