Queen sugarbush (Protea magnifica)

Queen sugarbush

Also known as: Pacific queen, Bearded protea

Queen sugarbush boasts a regal presence with its large, showy flower heads that resemble artichoke blooms. These flowers sit atop sturdy stems and are surrounded by slender leaves, adapting to their native rugged terrain. The plant's striking appearance, with a blend of pinkish-bronze petals tipped with silvery hairs, attests to its resilience and beauty amidst challenging environments.

Scientific classification

Species

Queen sugarbush (Protea magnifica)

Proteas, lotuses, planes, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

1.5 m

Plant Height

1.5 m

Spread

White, Yellow, Pink, Green, Cream, Red

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Queen sugarbush

Distribution Map

Queen sugarbush is native to the southern region of the African continent. It has also been introduced to horticultural landscapes in various temperate zones around the globe, where it is admired and cultivated for its ornamental qualities. This expansion is strictly as a managed plant and does not reflect a naturalized status in these regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Mountains on hot, dry mountain slopes near the snow line, substrates derived of sandstone, quartzite

Care Guide for Queen sugarbush

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Queen sugarbush prefers well-drained soils and requires watering every two weeks to thrive. This drought-resistant evergreen conserves water in its foliage, maintaining health and turgidity year-round, which is vital to prevent desiccation even outside of the flowering period.

Fertilize: For queen sugarbush, use balanced low-phosphorus fertilizers biannually to promote growth and blooms. Apply a handful per plant, adjusting based on size and soil fertility. Avoid overfeeding to prevent root damage and monitor for nutrient deficiencies or excess to ensure optimal health.

Pruning: Queen sugarbush features large flowers and robust foliage. Prune in late spring after blooming to shape the plant, encourage new growth, and remove dead or damaged branches. Thinning crowded areas enhances air circulation and light penetration, promoting vigorous growth and overall plant health.

Propagation: Queen sugarbush is propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings, ensuring healthy stems are selected. Use a clean tool for cutting and dip the base in rooting hormone. Place in well-draining medium while maintaining moisture and warmth, avoiding overwatering for successful propagation.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free