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Protea caffra

Family: Proteaceae (Protea family)

Common names: Highveld Protea, Manica Protea (E);

Native to: Southern Africa
Shrub, Tree

Protea caffra

EVERGREEN

FULL SUN

FROST HARDY

MEDIUM WATER REQUIREMENTS

SLOW GROWER

MEDIUM GROWER

ATTRACTS BIRDS

ATTRACTS INSECTS

FLOWER COLOUR:

AVERAGE SIZE:

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

Protea caffra

DESCRIPTION
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.
LANDSCAPING USES
An attractive tree that can be used to effect as a focal point in a rockery.
GARDEN THEMES
Bushveld, Formal, Fynbos, Grassland, Rockery, Woodland
FLOWERS

8 responses

  1. Hi Hantie

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    The protea most commonly found in the Suikerbos area is Protea caffra (Highveld protea).

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  2. Good day, I would like to know what protea or suikerbos is the most found in Suikerbos area in Heidelberg.

  3. Hi Annelize

    Thanks for visiting Plantbook.

    Flowering seasons differ seasonally based environmental conditions so the plants could be under some stress in your area.

    Flourish!
    Glenice

  4. Hi,

    I live in the Magaliesburg area and there are many of the Protea Caffra trees there. This year there has been no flowers whatsoever anywhere in the area. Yesterday I noticed one tree that has 2 flowers opening. When we moved there in 2018 the trees were covered in flowers. Every year after that it has been less until nothing this season. What could the reason be?

  5. 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

  6. 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.

  7. 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

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