Proteas of the Fynbos

About this book

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.

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Biography

John Manning is an internationally acclaimed botanist at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). A prolific writer, illustrator and photographer, he has authored and co-authored numerous scientific papers, magazine articles and books on South Africa's flora, including Field Guide to Fynbos, Pocket Guide Fynbos, Field Guide to Wild Flowers of South Africa and Ericas of the Fynbos.