Proteas are South Africa’s wildflower celebrities: the King Protea is emblazoned
on the National Coat of Arms and gives its name to the country’s cricket team.
A total of 330 protea species are found in the fynbos of the Cape Floristic
Region – the botanical treasure house at the southern tip of Africa.
Proteas of the Fynbos features 165 of the region’s more common or showy
species, with pointers to many more. Each species account details diagnostic
features, flowering times, habitats and distribution, while colour photographs
showcase the beauty and diversity of this charismatic plant group.
An informative introduction explores the biology, pollination, origin and
conservation status of fynbos proteas, and highlights features to aid identification.
Arranged in groups and subgroups for easy identification, this innovative
guide enables flower enthusiasts to confidently identify over half of all fynbos
protea species.