Sugarbush Baby

BabyugarbushS By Reneé Olivier With mythological associations to the minor Greek god Proteus – who assumed various forms in order to go unrecognised - the multitude of shapes and forms that encompass the Protea genus is just one reason this iconic flower is the symbol for strength and transformation. It also has a habit of constantly evolving new species, hence its association with diversity and courage. The plant is also known to release its seeds after bush fires, giving it phoenix-like qualities, as these durable shrubs literally rise from the ashes and even thrive in poor, acidic soils. Often referred to as the most beautiful and resilient flower in the Cape floral kingdom, the Giant or King Protea is not only the national flower of South Africa, but has also lent its name to the South African national cricket team. This same flower is featured in the South African coat of arms, an apt symbol for a country blossoming into its cultural and aesthetic potential. More than just a pretty face, proteas have been used for decades as a source of sweet, nutritious syrup - also the reason they are known as sugarbushes. The medicinal use of this rubyred nectar dates back to the late 1700s, when it was used to cure coughs and treat many other chest complaints. Ranging from deep maroon hues to startling bright orangereds and pale ice-pink and even white, the stiff velvety petals of the cone-shaped flowers are luxurious and sumptuous against the hard, bark stems and leathery leaves of this distinct plant. With 92% of the 400 indigenous species of Protea being found in the fynbos belt of the Cape, the plants also grow wild in the high altitudes of the Drakensberg mountain range, one of the country’s World Heritage sites. So it is no surprise that this astonishingly varied plant has captured the imagination of both local and international artists for decades, making it among the most prolifically painted indigenous flowers and probably the most recognisable.

Photographer Post Production Model Styling Hair Makeup Ingrid Alice Irsigler Galina Snitsaruk Jes Forber Jes Forber Jana Coetzee Michael MacOlive