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Afrikaanse Inligting
King Sugarbush Reusesuikerkan - Protea cynaroides
The King Sugarbush is the flagship of the protea Family. In the Hermanus area it occurs from nearly sea-level to 1000m. A resprouter, surviving fires by its underground stem, no one knows just how old a King may get. Many plants are probably centuries old. Recruitment from seeds does occur, but most frequently after two fires in close succession.
Flowering in the Hermanus area peaks from May to September, but flowerheads may be found at any time of the year. By contrast, leaf growth occurs mainly from October to January. Most surprising is the low level of data regarding pollination of the King Sugarbush. Presumably it is pollinated by birds, but this is not frequently seen.