Protea Repens - Sugarbush

Repens means 'creeping' although this protea is anything but creeping. Its name was erroneously given, based on a misleading picture. It is in fact, a tall, upright bush that can reach heights of 4 to 6 feet. Far more accurate is the common name 'sugarbush' honoring the species reputation of producing more nectar than any other protea, to the extent that it sometimes overflows. 

Sugarbush was a first in many ways. In 1774, it was cultivated under glass in the Royal Collection at the Kew Gardens where, in 1780, it became the first protea ever to bloom in cultivation away from the Cape. From 1890, it was also the first protea to grow outdoors in Australia, New Zealand and here in California.

Bountiful with sweet nectar, Sugarbush or Suikerbossie (Afrikaans) was South Africa's national flower until 1976. It's also a term of enderament that could be translated as "sweetie". The song Suikerbossie ek wil jou he (Sugarbush, I want you so) was composed on Lion's Head in Cape Town and shows how sweet the Sugarbush must be to inspire such romance. Suikerbossie ek wil jou he is a traditional South African Barn Dance Song and this English version of the song eventually became an international hit.

SUGARBUSH, I WANT YOU SO:

Sugarbush, I want you so

Sugarbush, I want you so

Sugarbush, I want you so

What will your mother want to say.

Then like that, we'll walk under the moon 

Then like that, we'll walk under the moon

Then like that, we'll walk under the moon

Together, my sugarbush and I.

 

Sugarbush bloom here in California from autumn through early winter - so now's the time to make these delightful 'sweet' blooms a part of your next arrangement or bouquet!