Protea simplex
 | This article includes a list of general references but lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (December 2021) |
| Protea simplex | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Embryophytes |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Spermatophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Protea |
| Species: | P. simplex |
| Binomial name | |
| Protea simplex E.Phillips | |
Protea simplex, the dwarf grassveld sugarbush, is a flower-bearing shrub belonging to the genus Protea. It is native to South Africa.
In Afrikaans, it is known as slanksuikerbos.[citation needed]
Description
[edit]The plant is small, flattened, and grows 16 cm (6.3 in) in diameter. It flowers from December to March. The plant sprouts again after it has burned. The seeds are stored in a shell, released after 9–12 months and spread by the wind. The plant is unisexual. Pollination takes place through the action of birds.
Distribution and habitat
[edit]The plant occurs on the escarpment of the Drakensberg from Mariepskop through Mpumalanga and Eswatini to Vryheid in KwaZulu-Natal. The plant grows rotas-like, open grasslands in acid soil at altitudes of 1,300–2,150 m (4,270–7,050 ft).
References
[edit]- ↑ Rebelo, A.G.; Mtshali, H.; von Staden, L. (2020). "Protea simplex". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2020 e.T113221187A185540113. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T113221187A185540113.en. Retrieved 10 August 2021.