Harpagophytum procumbens subsp. procumbens

Zietsman, P. C. & Zietsman, L. E., 2019, Floristic diversity at Kolomela mine on the Ghaap Plateau, Postmasburg, Northern Cape Province, Indago 35, pp. 1-33 : 8

Harpagophytum procumbens subsp. procumbens

(Devil’s Claw, Figs 4a & b ) occurs over a wide range of habitats on well drained sandy soil in open savanna. It is not endemic to South Africa, but has TOPS status because of harvesting pressure due to its medicinal value in treating arthritis and rheumatism. Between 1999 and 2005 the international demand for Devil’s Claw tubers was very high, but the demand and subsequent harvesting pressure have since declined (SANBI 2017a).

Figures

Figure 4. Harpagophytum procumbens subsp. procumbens flowers (a) and fruit (b). The vernacular name of Devil’s Claw is in reference to the appearance of the fruit.