South Africa, the land of breathtaking landscapes, golden sunsets, and an accent so lekker it should be bottled and sold, is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife and plants. Our biodiversity is world-famous, and rightfully so. In fact, when it comes to national emblems, Mzansi didn’t just slap a springbok on a coin and call it a day – we have got a whole line-up of proud ambassadors from the animal, bird, fish, flower, and tree kingdoms waving our flag high in their own wild and wonderful ways.
Whether they’re burrowing through savannahs or basking on riverbanks, flying high over the Karoo or blooming in a fynbos-covered kloof, each of South Africa’s national fauna and flora symbols has a story to tell.
National animal: the springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis)
The springbok, with its dainty legs, caramel coat, and show-offy high-jumps (called pronking), is not only the face of our national rugby team but also the official animal emblem of South Africa. And let’s be honest, it fits the bill perfectly.
Small but spirited, the springbok is a medium-sized antelope that’s built for speed and agility. Found mostly in the open plains and semi-desert regions of the Free State, Northern Cape, and parts of the Karoo, these elegant creatures can reach speeds of up to 88km/h. That’s quicker than a Gauteng driver trying to beat the robot when it turns yellow!
The name comes from the Afrikaans words for jump (spring) and antelope (bok), and they’re known to leap up to 4m in the air while running. Scientists aren’t exactly sure why they do it. Some think it’s to show off to potential mates, others reckon it’s a warning signal to predators. Either way, it’s impressive.
Springboks were once incredibly common in massive herds, and while their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and hunting, they remain one of the most iconic antelope species on the continent.
Fun fact: the springbok was once the national animal of Namibia too, but they’ve since picked the oryx.
National bird: The Blue Crane (Anthropoides paradiseus)
Standing tall, proud and just a little bit aloof (as all celebrities do), the Blue Crane is South Africa’s national bird… and quite the looker, too. Endemic to southern Africa and found almost exclusively in South Africa, this long-legged stunner is known for its graceful movements, soft grey-blue plumage, and a courtship dance that puts any ballroom waltz to shame.
It’s most commonly found in the grasslands of Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape and the Overberg region in the Western Cape. Despite its elegance, the Blue Crane is surprisingly feisty, especially during breeding season when pairs fiercely defend their nests from intruders, including humans.
The Xhosa people refer to the Blue Crane as indwe, and historically, warriors who displayed exceptional bravery in battle were honoured by having Blue Crane feathers placed in their hair.
Unfortunately, despite its national status, the Blue Crane is classified as Vulnerable. Habitat destruction, power line collisions, and poisoning have all contributed to the decline of these graceful birds. Conservation efforts are ongoing to make sure our flying emblem sticks around.
National flower: The king protea (Protea cynaroides)
Move over roses, this one’s royalty. The king protea is the crown jewel of South Africa’s floral kingdom… and it’s not hard to see why. With its huge flower head (sometimes as big as a dinner plate) and a bold design that looks like it was crafted by an avant-garde florist, it’s both the centrepiece of our national pride and the showstopper of many a wedding bouquet.
Found primarily in the fynbos regions of the Western Cape, the king protea is part of the Proteaceae family, which dates back roughly 300 million years. These plants are tough as nails, with deep root systems that allow them to survive fires and poor soils. In fact, some proteas only flower after being scorched by fire – talk about rising from the ashes!
The flower has over 80 natural forms and varieties, with colours ranging from creamy whites to rich pinks. It’s also the logo for Cricket South Africa and used across a variety of sporting and conservation bodies, proving its versatility as both a symbol and a survivor.
Botanists say the protea symbolises diversity and courage, which makes it a very fitting emblem for a rainbow nation that’s as varied as it is vibrant.
National fish: The galjoen (Dichistius capensis)
If there was ever a fish that encapsulates the plucky spirit of the South African coastline, it’s the galjoen. Found only along our shores (from Namibia down to KwaZulu-Natal), this stocky little scrapper is the official marine fish of South Africa, and boy, does it punch above its weight.
With its laterally flattened body, tough scales, and a reputation for fighting like a bulldog when hooked, the galjoen is beloved by surf anglers. It prefers rough, rocky areas close to shore where it feeds on red bait, mussels and algae. It’s not particularly flashy – usually a dark grey to blackish colour – but what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in grit.
Interestingly, the galjoen has a deep cultural connection with the Cape fishing community and is often served pan-fried with a squeeze of lemon and a side of slap chips. Talk about a national treasure on a plate.
Due to overfishing, there are now strict regulations on catching galjoen, including a closed season and a daily bag limit.
National tree: The real yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius)
Long before highways and shopping malls took over, the forests of South Africa were ruled by towering yellowwoods. The real yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius) – not to be confused with its cousins in the same genus – is the oldest and most majestic of the lot. Some trees are estimated to be over 1 000 years old, standing tall at heights of 30-40m.
It grows naturally from the southern Cape all the way to Limpopo, favouring misty mountain slopes and evergreen forests. With its grey bark, drooping foliage and small, purplish seed cones, it’s a gentle giant in the plant kingdom.
The wood of the yellowwood has been highly prized for furniture and boat building, which unfortunately led to widespread logging. Thankfully, conservation has stepped in, and today these trees are protected.
Aside from its impressive stature, the real yellowwood is also culturally significant. It’s been used in traditional medicine and is often found in historical kraals and mission stations. One can still visit the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma, a famous yellowwood believed to be more than 800 years old… and still standing strong.
Honourable mentions: Other national symbols
While not part of the official fauna and flora emblems, it would be a crime against pride not to give a nod to a few more of our beloved symbols.
National reptile – Nope, we haven’t picked one yet. The puff adder might raise a scaly eyebrow, but no crown has been given.
National insect – Still open to debate, though the elegant Table Mountain butterfly or the industrious honeybee might be top contenders.
National fruit – We don’t have one, but the humble marula might deserve the accolade. It is known for its role in traditional African food and medicine, and it’s also used in the production of the popular Marula liqueur.
Final thoughts: A natural legacy worth protecting
South Africa’s national symbols are more than just pretty faces or familiar mascots on government posters. They represent our deep connection to nature, our cultural roots, and our duty to protect what makes this country so unique. In a world where climate change, habitat loss, and human expansion threaten biodiversity daily, it’s more important than ever to celebrate – and safeguard – our natural heritage.
So, the next time you spot a springbok bounding through the veld, hear the haunting call of a blue crane in the distance, or see a protea in bloom after a fire, take a moment. These aren’t just national symbols. They’re part of who we are.
And as we say in true South African style – local is lekker, and nothing is more local than our wild and wonderful national emblems.
