Natal Watsonia, Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch, Western Cape province

Watsonia (Bugle Lily) is a genus of plants in the iris family, subfamily Crocoideae, native to South Africa. The genus is named after Sir William Watson, an 18th century British botanist. There are 52 species in southern Africa

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, which includes the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve, lies near the town of Stellenbosch in the south-western Cape. The reserve comprises the imposing Jonkershoek mountains and portions of the upper Jonkershoek valley. The lower reaches of the valley are a well-known wineproducing area.

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve is 14527 hectares in extent, and functions as a mountain catchment area, providing water for Stellenbosch and surrounds. Its rugged terrain is ideal for hiking, while Assegaaibosch, at 204 ha, is much smaller and is suitable for shorter walks and picnics.

PHOTO SOURCE: Friedrich von Horsten, courtesy of, and copyright, South Africa Tourism, a department of the government of South Africa, used with permission.

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