Harnessing the Potential of Cape Wild Edible Plants: Nutritional insights, Gaps and Priorities

O_LIRationale: Wild edible plants of the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) of South Africa have piqued recent interest from multiple sectors due to their potential to contribute to the Western Capes food systems. However, cultivation efforts remain hindered due to a lack of nutritional knowledge. C_LIO_LIMethods: This systematic literature review establishes nutritional knowledge gaps and priorities for a selection of the regions wild edible plants and uses the existing nutritional data to summarize the proportionate contributions that these species can make to daily dietary requirements. C_LIO_LIKey results: We find that winter rainfall/GCFR species are poorly researched, and more so than summer rainfall species in terms of a) nutritional status studied and b) number of key nutrients tested in each species. We also identify key winter rainfall species (e.g. Carpobrotus edulis, Tulbaghia violaceae and Trachyandra falcata) that show high potential to address nutritional deficits of the region. C_LIO_LIConclusion: Although we find nutritional data to be sparse, that which exists suggests high nutritive potential of wild edible plants of the GCFR. We also identify priority species for future nutritional study and cultivation to enhance local food systems using the bounty offered by this biodiversity hotspot. C_LI Societal impact statementThis study highlights the potential of wild edible plants in the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR) to enhance food security and nutritional health in the Western Cape. By identifying nutritious species like Carpobrotus edulis, and poorly researched yet nutritious species like Tulbaghia violaceae, and Trachyandra falcata, we emphasize the role of GCFR edible plants in addressing deficiencies and promoting diversity of diets. Cultivating these plants can stimulate local agriculture, support sustainable practices, and empower communities. Ultimately, our findings advocate for reintegrating wild edible plants into local food systems, fostering food sovereignty and resilience while reducing reliance on global supply chains.