Blackrim Sugarbush – 5 Seeds

Blackrim Sugarbush (Protea acuminata), a flowering shrub in the genus Protea. Also known as Angelprotea, Bergrosie, Black-rim Sugarbush, Sederbergprotea.

The plant is endemic to South Africa. There are isolated populations at Nieuwoudtville, and in the Cederberg, Stettynskloof and Riviersonderend Mountains. It can grow as an upright tree. It can become up to two meters in height. It blooms from June to September, with the peak of July to August. Periodic wildfires may destroy the adult plants, but the seeds can survive such an event. The seeds are dispersed by means of the wind. The plant is monoecious with both sexes in each flower. It occurs on dry sandstone slopes in mountainous fynbos, 250-1650 m. It is pollinated by birds and rodents.

Growing Blackrim Sugarbush

• Seeds can be sown in autumn or spring when the difference between day and night temperatures is about 12ºC. Where winters are cold, plant in spring and where winters are mild, plant in autumn.
• To increase the chance of germination, the seeds should be treated with a smoke primer .
• The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5. A mixture of coarse river sand, peat or decomposed pine needles and vermiculite or perlite in a ratio of 2:2:1 is suggested.
• The seeds should be planted to a depth equal to their size and watered well.
• Place the seeds in a semi-shaded position and protect them from rodents, birds and insects.
• Water lightly with a fine spray in the early morning and during the day if necessary – do not allow them to dry out at any time.
• Germination will occur between 1 and 3 months.