Care of the shrub Protea eximia or Broad-leaved sugarbush |
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The genus Protea, family Proteaceae, comprises 80 species of shrubs and trees native to eastern and southern Africa. Some species are: Protea eximia, Protea caffra, Protea aristata, Protea laurifolia, Protea obtusifolia, Protea barbigera, Protea cynaroides, Protea cryophila. Common name: Broad-leaved sugarbush. This species is native to Cape Province, South Africa. They are shrubs or little branched evergreen trees with a vertical bearing that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. The leaves are oval, leathery and greyish green or purplish. The showy flower heads measure 12 cm (4.72") in diameter and are purple-pink or red in color. They bloom in spring and early summer but can do so in other seasons. This fast-growing, easy-to-grow plant is used in low-maintenance gardens, in Mediterranean coastal gardens, in bushy groups and in areas with alkaline soils. Plant in groups of 3 to 6 individuals for a more compact effect. It's also used as cut flowers for bouquets and floral decorations. Protea eximia needs direct sun exposure and hot climates. It resists occasional frosts down to -4 ºC (24.8 ºF). Broad-leaved sugarbush grows in any well-drained soil whether it is poor, rocky, sandy or alkaline. Water moderately throughout the year waiting for the substrate to dry. Do not use fertilizers. Prune wilted inflorescences after flowering to maintain a compact appearance. Protea eximia is a plant resistant to pests and diseases. Broad-leaved sugarbush is propagated from seeds sown in the fall or late summer in the seedbed (they germinate in 3 weeks) or by semi-woody cuttings. |
Images of the shrub Protea eximia or Broad-leaved sugarbush |
 Protea eximia |