1. International Programmes Stellenbosch University Winter School
24 – 28 June 2013
Cape Flora: Plants for the People of the Western Cape
Course Co-ordinator:
Prof. Léanne Dreyer
E-mail: ld@sun.ac.za
COURSE DESCRIPTION
During this course, you will be introduced to South Africa’s incredible biological diversity, with
special focus on the plants of the Cape Floristic Region. After a solid theoretical and practical
introduction to the diversity and richness of this flora, the focus will shift to the role and
responsibility of people in conserving and benefiting from these botanical riches. This leads on to a
full day of exploration of the benefits currently being reaped from commercialization of indigenous
plants for especially the cut flower industry. Indigenous plant use by local people, especially
traditional healers, constitutes the final topic of discussion, and will be followed by a visit to
traditional medicinal markets. The course will close with verbal presentations by students on topics
researched during the course of the module.
Overarching programme objectives:
To introduce students to the spectacular botanical diversity of South Africa, and to the challenges
around the sustainable utilization of this flora for both commercial and cultural benefit
PRESENTATION
The course combines formal lectures with field excursions to different natural sites within the Cape
Town – Stellenbosch area. In addition local plant utilization will be explored through visits to
commercial wild flower farms and indigenous medicinal markets.2
EVALUATION
Course evaluation is based on a practical PowerPoint seminar (40%) and an essay (50%) assignment;
10% is awarded for class participation.
COURSE CONTENT
Monday, 24 June: Cape Floral Bio- Diversity
09:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 16:30
Morning: Introduction to module. Assignment selection.
Lecture on diversity and uniqueness of the Cape Floristic region
Lecturer: Prof. Léanne Dreyer
Afternoon: Hike to Stellenbosch Mountain
Lecturers: Prof. L. Dreyer, Dr F. Roets & Dr K. Oberlander

2. Tuesday, 25 June: Conservation of Biological Riches
09:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 16:30
Morning: Ecological and Conservation Considerations in the Cape Floristic Region
Lecturer: Dr Francois Roets
Afternoon: Fieldwork Assignment in Kogelberg
Lecturers: Prof. L. Dreyer, Dr F. Roets & Dr K. Oberlander
Wednesday, 26 June: Cape Flora – Plants for the People
09:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 16:30
Morning: Indigenous plant use (field-based lecture)
Lecturer: Dr. Nox Makunga
Afternoon: Outing to Indigenous market in Cape Town
Lecturer: Dr. Nox Makunga
Thursday, 27 June: Fynbos Cut Flower Industry: from rags to riches
09:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 16:30
Morning: The commercialization of Fynbos Cut Flowers
Lecturer: Dr. Lynn Hoffman
Afternoon: Outing to a commercial Protea farm in Paarl district.
Lecturer: Dr. Lynn Hoffman
Friday, 28 June: Student Seminar Presentations
09:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 13:00 & 14:00 – 16:30
Lecturers: Prof. L. Dreyer, Dr. Lynn Hoffman, Dr. Nox Makunga Dr F. Roets &
Dr K. Oberlander
RESEARCH ASSIGNMENT
You will be given a research assignment topic from the topics that will be discussed in class and/or
during excursions. As indicated above, this assignment will contribute 50% to your final course
mark.
How long should my paper be? Approximately 2000 words

3. What should the format look like? Your essays must be typed. Please use font type Arial (size 11) or
Times New Roman (size 12) and 1.5 line spacing. Remember to spell check and proofread your
paper before handing it in.
How many sources should I use? At least 3 sources (where possible, use a variety of books, journal
and Internet sources)
Do I need to reference my sources? Yes. Include a bibliography, and make use of in-line referencing
(using whatever system you are used to, as long as you are consistent).
When is the paper due? On Friday , 5 July
How will the paper be graded?
The following criteria will be used in grading your paper:
• Relevance to topic
• Strong introduction and conclusion
• Clarity, logic, coherence
• Arguments supported by evidence
• Consistent referencing of sources & comprehensive bibliography
• Appropriate academic language
• Free of errors in grammar, punctuation, word choice, spelling, and format
• Evidence of critical thinking and engagement with topic
• Originality and creativity
• Verbal presentation
Plagiarism
Stealing the ideas and/or words of another person and trying to pass it off as your own (either by
copying verbatim or by using ideas without reference to authorship) is regarded as a serious offence,
and will result in penalization and possible failure.