AVERAGE SIZE (H) x (W): 7m x 4m
FLOWERING TIME: J F M A M J J A S O N D
FRUITING TIME: J F M A M J J A S O N D
A small gnarled tree that occurs naturally on dry, rocky ridges. The fissured bark is grey to black and sometimes warty. The silvery-green leaves are stiff and sickle-shaped. The flower heads are up to 12cm in diameter with the inner bracts pinkish white to red adn the outer bracts are greenish to brownish. The fruit is a hairy nutlet which forms shortly after the flowers.
GARDEN THEMES:Bushveld, formal, fynbos, grassland, rockery, woodland
LANDSCAPING USES:
An attractive tree that can be used to effect as a focal point in a rockery.
Hi Sibusiso
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
It sounds like your protea is really old. The “algae” could possibly be lichen. Otherwise, check that you’re not over-watering it.
These proteas in your area are naturally occurring and actually thrive on neglect.
Flourish!
Glenice
Good Morning
We have the Protea at our house, in Helderkruin, I need to know why the protea itself is always dry, and the bark looks like it has algae on it.
Hi Mark
Thanks for visiting Plantbook.
The traditional use of plants is a fascinating topic. It’s a pity that there are limited documented resources for this valuable information.
The roots of Protea Caffra (isiQabala) are used to make a decoction called “umhlabelo” which is applied to speed the healing of broken bones.
Flourish!
Glenice
Is protea caffra known as umhlabelo in traditional south african medicine?