Common sugarbush (Protea repens, Mant. pl. 2:189. 1771)

Family: Proteaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Mant. pl. 2:189. 1771

Year: 1771

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Protea

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Cape Prov.

Description

The Common sugarbush, known scientifically as Protea repens, is an integral member of the Proteaceae family. This evergreen shrub, native to the unique ecosystems of South Africa, notably thrives in the southern regions of the Cape Province. Its botanical classification was first documented in 1771, providing a rich history that underscores its ecological significance.

Protea repens is renowned for its striking floral display, which features dense, cylindrical clusters of flowers varying in color from creamy white to rich crimson. These blossoms not only add vibrant splashes of color to the landscape but also play a crucial role in local biodiversity by attracting various pollinators, including birds and insects.

The shrub is well-adapted to its native fynbos habitats, characterized by their Mediterranean climate. It showcases remarkable resilience to the typical drought conditions and nutrient-poor soils of the region. Throughout its lifecycle, the Common sugarbush demonstrates a natural fire-adapted strategy; its seeds are often released in response to fire, ensuring regeneration and continuity within its native ecosystem.

Historically, Protea repens has also held cultural and economic value. Its nectar, historically harvested by indigenous peoples, is noted for its sweet flavor, akin to that of honey, giving rise to its common name.

Conservation efforts continue to be important for Protea repens, as habitat loss and climate change pose challenges to its natural environment. Nonetheless, its robust adaptability and ecological importance make it a cherished species within the Proteaceae family and a symbol of the rich botanical heritage of South Africa.

Common Names

Swe: honungsprotea
Eng: sugarbush, common sugarbush, real sugarbush, sugar protea
En: Common sugarbush, Honey protea, Repens, Sugarbush, Real Sugarbush, Sugar Protea
Af: Bierbos, GEWONE SUIKERBOS, Mebos, Perdebos, Soetsopbos, Stroopbos, Opregte suikerbos
Fa: شکربوته
Sv: Honungsprotea

Synonyms

• Protea repens var. major (Meisn.)
• Scolymocephalus mellifer ((Thunb.) Kuntze)
• Protea repens var. minor (Meisn.)
• Erodendrum mellifluum (Knight)
• Protea canaliculata (Meisn.)
• Scolymocephalus repens ((L.) Kuntze)
• Protea mellifera (Thunb.)
• Protea strobus (Meisn.)
• Leucadendron melliferum (W.Wight)
• Leucadendron repens (L.)

Distribution

• Cape Provinces (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2022 by Annemarie Ahrens-Stehle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 28, 2022 by Annemarie Ahrens-Stehle (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 28, 2022 by Annemarie Ahrens-Stehle (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 6, 2022 by Yves Clara (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2016 by ismail yenidoganay (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2016 by KP Laer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 11, 2022 by Dragonfly (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 19, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Apr 19, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 19, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 20, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:706086-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5636761)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Protea repens L.)

Specifications

Growth