The Platbos forest located just off the coast of Gansbaai in the Western Cape, is Africa’s southernmost indigenous forest and is home to a myriad of bird species. “The Afrikaans term “Platbos” translates to “flat forest” or “flat bush”. The name is apt because when approaching the forest, it appears as a flat cluster of greenery, easily disguising its numerous trees, flora and fauna.
What is fascinating about the forest is the ability of the species to continuously thrive despite the fact that they grow on sandy and alkaline soil. The region is also prone to low rainfall, but this hasn’t stopped the forest from growing.
Besides birds, the Platbos forest is home to animals such as the caracal, leopard, aardvark and reptiles such as the boomslang and Cape Cobra. When it comes to trees, the ancient Milkwood, the White Stinkwood and Rock Adler are some of the species you can find in the thicket.
Because it’s an indigenous forest, protecting the Platbos forest as well as growing it is a priority for a number of South African nature conservationists and organisations. This is why Biotree.earth, in partnership with Greenpop, commits to making sure that the forest continues to flourish.
Greenpop is a social enterprise and urban greening initiative that has close ties to the Platbos forest. For every Biotee urn sold, Biotree.earth donates a tree which is then planted by Greenpop in the forest.
The Platbos forest is also the perfect destination for those who want to be “off the grid” for a while, as well as for those who want to get closer to nature. Its hiking trails, tours and camping or overnight spots are a treat for the nature lover in you.
The forest also allows visitors to plant trees either in celebration or in memorial of a loved one, which is directly in line with Biotree’s motivation of celebrating life by growing a tree.
The quiet tenacity and botanical mystery of the Platbos forest is certainly one of the many admirable products of nature in South Africa.