Protea scolymocephala stem-tips

In September many of the erect Protea scolymocephala stem-tips bear solitary flowerheads, presenting a range of developmental stages at any one time.

Some of last year’s dry heads are still present lower down. New branches sprout annually from just below the old flowerhead, repeating the blooming exercise at a higher level on an increased number of branches, like ambition drives achievers in the progress resembling growth.

Cream to reddish stem surfaces are on display, not much concealed by the narrow leaves that ascend, well-spaced around the stems (Manning, 2007; Rebelo, 1995; Rourke, 1980; iNaturalist; http://pza.sanbi.org).