Leon Kluge shines a spotlight on the unusual winter bloom shuttlecock protea that attracts sunbirds and brightens the Cape
Greyton, South Africa (31 July 2025) – Winter may bring cooler days to the Cape, but it also brings one of the most delightful sights in the fynbos, the Shuttlecock protea. Plant explorer Leon Kluge recently shared one of his favourites. Known scientifically as Protea Aurea, this flower is a real treat for anyone who loves nature and beautiful gardens.
Unlike the big, cup-shaped proteas we all know, this one is a little different. Its flower opens wide, almost as if the cup has collapsed, showing off its tiny spikes inside. These spikes carry pollen and catch the light beautifully in the sun. It is easy to see why it is called the Shuttlecock protea; it literally looks just like the little ball from a game of badminton.
But the magic does not stop there. Sunbirds and sugarbirds cannot resist this flower. They land right on top to sip its nectar, and while doing so, they pick up the pollen. When they fly off to the next bloom, they carry the pollen with them, helping the plant to grow new seeds. It is a quiet little dance between the flowers and the birds, and it is lovely to watch.
These proteas do not only bloom in white. You can also spot them in soft pinks and pale yellows, and before they open, the buds look like tiny candlesticks. Giving the plant another sweet nickname, the candlestick protea.
If you feel like a scenic winter outing, the area around Greyton is full of these beautiful blooms right now. Walking among them, with sunbirds flitting around, is a reminder that winter in the Cape has its own special kind of magic.
The Shuttlecock protea may be unusual, but that is exactly what makes it so charming. A little winter surprise from our incredible South African fynbos.
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