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Description
The Protea Caffra, also known as the Common Protea, is a species of flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Proteaceae, which includes over 1,500 species of flowering plants. The plant produces large, impressive flowers that are popular in the floral industry. Protea Caffra is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 5 meters (16 feet) tall and 3 meters (10 feet) wide. It has a slow growth rate and can live for up to 50 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Protea |
Appearance
The Protea Caffra has large, leathery leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flowers are cone-shaped and can be up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) long and 15 centimeters (6 inches) wide. The flowers are usually pink, but can also be white, cream, or red. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring and the flowers can last for several weeks. The plant has a woody stem and a dense, bushy habit.
Care Guide
The Protea Caffra is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently. It can tolerate drought but not waterlogged soil.
- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a slow-release fertilizer that is low in phosphorus.
- Soil: The plant prefers acidic, well-draining soil. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant may suffer from iron deficiency.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Protea Caffra is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Protea Caffra is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can suffer from the following:
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering or waterlogged soil.
- Iron deficiency: Caused by alkaline soil or poor drainage.
- Scale insects: Can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Mites: Can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Protea Caffra is native to South Africa and is found in the fynbos biome. It grows in sandy, well-draining soil and can tolerate dry, windy conditions. The plant is adapted to wildfire, and its seeds are released after a fire to take advantage of the newly cleared ground.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Protea Caffra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but it may require more frequent watering.
Q: Can the Protea Caffra be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer.
Q: How often should the Protea Caffra be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized twice a year, in the spring and fall.
Q: Can the Protea Caffra tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost tolerant and should be protected in areas with cold winters.
Related Plants
- Protea Compacta
- Protea Eximia
- Protea Grandiceps
- Protea Magnifica
References
- “Protea caffra (Common protea).” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 2 Aug. 2021.
- “Protea caffra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 2 Aug. 2021.
- “Protea caffra.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, n.d. Web. 2 Aug. 2021.
