# From Marshes to Mines: Germination and Establishment of Crinum bulbispermum on Gold Mine Tailings

## TL;DR

Crinum bulbispermum can germinate and grow on gold mine tailings, showing potential for restoration and medicinal use.

## Contribution

The study confirms C. bulbispermum's resilience to mine tailings and its potential for phytostabilization.

## Key findings

- Crinum bulbispermum showed over 85% germination success on gold mine tailings.
- Seedlings established at 100% success rate despite harsh tailings conditions.
- Long-term growth was limited by low organic carbon and high salinity in tailings.

## Abstract

The growth potential of Crinum bulbispermum was evaluated on gold mine tailings. The primary objectives were to model the species’ climatic niche in relation to gold mining regions, assess its germination success on tailings, and compare seedling survival and growth on tailings versus other soil types. Species distribution modelling identified the South African Grassland Biome on the Highveld (1000+ m above sea level), where the majority of gold mines are located, as highly suitable for the species. Pot trials demonstrated above 85% germination success across all soil treatments, including gold mine tailings, indicating its potential for restoration through direct seeding. An initial seedling establishment rate of 100% further demonstrated the species’ resilience to mine tailings, which are often seasonally dry, nutrient-poor, and may contain potentially toxic metals. However, while C. bulbispermum was able to germinate and establish in mine tailings, long-term growth potential (over 12 months) was constrained by low organic carbon content (0.11%) and high salinity (194.50 mS/m). These findings underscore the critical role of soil chemistry and organic matter in supporting long-term plant establishment and growth on gold tailings. Building on previous research, this study confirms the ability of this thick-rooted geophyte to tolerate chemically extreme soil conditions. Crinum bulbispermum shows promise for phytostabilization and as a potential medicinal plant crop on tailings. However, future research on microbial community interactions and soil amendment strategies is essential to ensure its long-term sustainability.