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Protea caffra Seeds
The specific epithet caffra is derived from 'Caffraria', the 17th century geographical name for the north eastern regions of South Africa, in turn a latinisation of the islamic Arabic 'Kafir' - unbeliever. First discovered in Natal, South Africa in December/January 1839/40 by Ferdinand Krauss, this protea has never attracted much attention from horticulturalists. It was induced to flower at Kew in May 1893, but this failed to kindle any further interest in the species. Its chief claim to fame is that it was illustrated on the reverse of the South African threepenny piece - or 'tickey' - for almost 30 years. The bark can be used medicinally.
A very hardy perennial shrub that will survive temperatures of at least -5 degrees Celsius. The seeds will germinate in the summer 22 days after planting, and the young plants will reach a height of 10cm in their first year. Thereafter, growth can be somewhat variable with stops and starts. Should start to bloom from the 6th year, when lower branches should be pruned to stimulate the flowering shoots. The bid amount is for 1 Seed We'll supply you with all the germination & care instructions. |