Description
Protea neriifolia seeds can benefit from Seed Smoke Primer, which is also available in our shop. Make sure to take a look!
Protea neriifolia, commonly known as the oleanderleaf protea or narrow-leaf protea, is a magnificent flowering shrub and one of the most widely cultivated protea species. Endemic to the coastal mountain ranges of the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, it is a key component of the fynbos biome. Its name, neriifolia, is a combination of the Greek words nerion (oleander) and folium (leaf), referring to its long, narrow, bluish-green leaves that resemble those of an oleander. Like many other proteas, Protea neriifolia is adapted to its fire-prone habitat.
This species is notable for its beautiful and varied floral display. The flower heads are large, cone-shaped, and can range in color from silvery-pink to deep crimson, with the inner bracts tipped with striking black, hairy margins that give it a “black-bearded” appearance. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract a wide range of pollinators, including birds, insects, and small mammals.