Gauteng is witnessing a burst of sweet-scented and bright yellow flowers this spring, thanks to Emira Property Fund (JSE: EMI), the diversified real estate investment trust (REIT). The flowering plants not only mark the change of seasons but also play a vital role in supporting the province’s pollinators such as bees and butterflies, fostering a healthy ecosystem.

Emira has planted around 80 senecio Barbertonicus succulents—commonly known as bush senecio—across 20 of its Gauteng-based properties as part of its biodiversity focus for the 2025 financial year. This initiative builds on Emira’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability and tackling climate-related challenges.

Supporting Biodiversity through Sustainable Practices

Ulana van Biljon, Chief Operating Officer of Emira, highlights the company's drive to make a positive environmental impact:
"Emira actively assesses how we can contribute to managing climate-related challenges while also finding ways to serve communities responsibly and protect the environment."

The bush senecio was chosen for its air-purifying qualities and high tolerance to hot weather conditions, making it an ideal plant for water-wise landscaping. It aligns perfectly with Emira’s goal of responsible water use, which is particularly significant in Gauteng, a region grappling with water shortages.

Van Biljon notes, "The water problem should be a priority for everyone. At Emira, we consider and apply various water-saving and consumption-reducing solutions to make a positive difference." Emira's properties feature teams trained in “Water Matters”, promoting the importance of water conservation.

Helping Pollinators Thrive

When the bush senecio blooms from July to September, it produces bright yellow tubular flowers, providing crucial food for butterflies and bees during the dry winter months when other food sources are scarce. The inclusion of 16 beehives across eight of Emira's properties in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal further supports this biodiversity initiative.

Planting for the Future

The biodiversity project is part of a larger effort by Emira to foster indigenous plant life at its properties. The 80 bush senecios complement other efforts, such as planting 670 spekboom plants across 26 of its properties and incorporating shade trees and fruit trees at schools and community facilities.

Properties Benefiting from Emira’s Biodiversity Efforts

Retail properties where bush senecios have been planted include Boskruin Village Shopping Centre, Kramerville Corner, Randridge Mall, and Wonderpark Shopping Centre. Office properties benefiting from this initiative include Albury Park, Epsom Downs Office Park, Hyde Park Lane, and Lone Creek. Even industrial properties such as One Highveld and Admiral House will feature these vibrant yellow flowers.

Emira’s Commitment to Greener Cities

"Emira’s biodiversity initiatives bring nature closer to people, making cities greener and cleaner," concludes van Biljon. With every project, Emira integrates biodiversity stewardship into its operations, learning and sharing insights with others to foster a more sustainable future.

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