Family: Proteaceae

Protea compacta, commonly known as Bot River sugarbush or Bot River protea, is a striking evergreen shrub to small tree native to the Western Cape of South Africa. It is best known for its large, showy flower heads—typically pink to deep rose with silvery bracts—that make it a favorite in ornamental landscapes and the cut-flower industry. Blooming mainly in winter and spring, this protea attracts birds and pollinators in its native range. Because of its drought tolerance and preference for well-drained soils, Bot River protea is often planted in Mediterranean-style gardens and valued for its unique texture, long-lasting flowers, and low water needs once established.

Protea compacta is rated Low Risk, meaning it is unlikely to pose significant invasive or ecological risks if planted responsibly. It has traits that suggest limited potential to spread unintentionally — its relatively large, serotinous seeds are not easily carried far by wind, it doesn’t spread vegetatively, it is non-toxic and unarmed, and it is self-incompatible (requiring cross-pollination). Some high-risk traits (e.g., adaptability to Mediterranean climates and seed persistence after fire) are noted, but evidence of naturalization or weediness is limited or inconclusive, and it has not been broadly shown to establish harmful populations outside cultivation. As always, Plant Pono still encourages thoughtful planting and stewardship so this attractive species contributes positively to landscapes without unintended impacts on Hawaiʻi’s ʻāina.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows in maritime, Mediterranean climates
  
• Reported to be naturalized and/or a weed but evidence is inconclusive
  
• From fire-prone ecosystem. May increase fire risk in introduced range.
  
• Forms dense stands in native range
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Hybridizes with other Protea species
  
• May reach reproductive maturity in as little as 2 years (more commonly mature at 5 years)
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind and intentionally by people
  
• Serotinous seeds form a persistent canopy “seed bank”
  
• Tolerates regular pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental
  
• Self-incompatible
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Relatively large, serotinous seeds unlikely to be inadvertently dispersed