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PROTEA aurea

Shuttlecock Sugarbush

Stock: Out Of Stock

SKU Code: B 52

Family: Proteaceae

Characteristics: Large shrub or small tree to 3-4 m spread 2 m

Seeds per packet: 5

Protea is a fast growing large shrub or small tree with smooth bark up to 4 m tall that is sparsely branched and forms an upright habit. Leaves are ovate to broadly ovate and heart-shaped at the base and are grey-green and are soft and velvety when young. Candle-shaped buds which open to a cream/pink/crimson 9-13 cm flower similar to a shuttlecock form summer to autumn at the tips of branches.
Native to South Africa.

Prefers light to medium well-drained soil in a protected sunny position, drought tolerant frost tender.

The best time to sow is usually autumn or spring when the temperature range is between 16-22°C and there is difference of day and night temperatures of around 12°C.
If your summer is hot and dry and your winter is moderate and wet the best time to sow is autumn.
In colder climates with less harsh summers it is usually better to sow in spring.

  1. The growing medium should be well draining but should remain damp between watering.
  2. Sow the seed the depth on the seed size. Vermiculite is a good medium to use to cover the surface as it helps retain moisture and controls the temperature. 
  3. Keep moist but not too wet as the seed may rot. Do not let the growing mix completely dry out. 
  4. Germination should occur in 21-60 days depending on the temperature and conditions. 

Pre-treatment of smoke is recommended:
Members of the Proteaceae are responsive to pre-treatment of smoke. Although germination will often occur without smoke treatment it has proved to be beneficial in reducing the number of days to germination and increasing germination rates in many species of the Proteaceae family 
Smoke treatments are simple and can be undertaken either by soaking the seed overnight or by applying to the surface after sowing, both provide good results. Smoke treatments available by clicking here.

We now stock a range of Propagation Accessories including the popular Aquamiser Propagation Kits, Pots, Native and Forestry Tubes, Trays, Labels and more.

Click here to view our range.

We can only ship these items to Australian locations, international customers please request shipping quotation prior to purchasing.

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