Meadowridge Common is a small protected area of approximately 8 ha – a valuable remnant of the Critically Endangered Cape Flats Sand Fynbos. It contains as many as 137 different flowering plant species, of which four are listed as Endangered. These plants are representative of the almost 600 species that were collected by Dr William Frederick Purcell on the Bergvliet Farm between 1914 and 1919, and this collection can today be viewed in the Compton Herbarium at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Floral displays are at their best in spring, from September to October, and a number of insects, birds and amphibians, including the threatened Cape rain frog (Breviceps gibbosus), have been observed.
Meadowridge Common is managed by the City of Cape Town, with the help of the Friends of Meadowridge Common.
Challenges
Due to its small size, isolated location and low numbers of some plant species, the risk of extinction is high. The invasion of kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum), pine trees (Pinus sp.), annual weeds, together with a lack of natural fires, suppress the natural vegetation. Other problems are uncontrolled dogs and soil that was dumped on the site over 20 years ago.
ADDRESS: Accessible from Edison Drive and Faraday Way, Meadowridge
OPENING HOURS: Not applicable
SIZE: 8 ha
ENTRANCE FEE: None
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Bus or taxi
ACTIVITIES: Dog-walking, wildflowers, recreation
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: Illustrated talks given upon request
FRIENDS GROUP: The Friends of Meadowridge Common assist with keeping the site clean and tidy, and controlling invasive alien species. The group keeps detailed botanical records, arranges spring walks, provides signage, and monitors the activities on the common. Contact them on 021 715 9206.
CONTACT: City Parks Tel 021 762 9180
Source: City of Cape Town (2010) City of Cape Town nature reserves: A network of amazing biodiversity. City of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
Bank name Nedbank
Account name FYNBOSLIFE
Account number 1127617079
Branch code 198765
Please email proof of payment to info@fynboslife.com
Support us with a CoralBloom fynbos floral face mask or any CoralBloom textile homeware products (tea towels, napkin sets and table runners) – designed by Dr Michelle Jooste with botanical illustrations by Ann C. Jooste and Megan L. Jooste for our collaboration range exclusive to Happy by Nature. 5% of your purchase proceeds will be donated to FynbosLIFE. View options
Would you like to create your own community or school garden? Why not start your own fundraising campaign for our Cape Flats Fynbos Nursery to grow plants for your project’s original veld type?
Register as a FynbosLIFE champion on Back a Buddy