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Elim Conebush Elimtolbos - Leucadendron elimense elimenseOne of our rarer proteas, the Elim Conebush is known only from Uilenkraal to Bredasdorp. It occurs mainly within the Elim Fynbos. Almost half of known populations occur within farming areas, and survive only in road verges, and unploughed islands. More of a problem is that 85% of populations are threatened by alien wattle, myrtle and pine invaders. An indication of this threat is that 80% of populations are smaller than 100 plants! Not a single population is known from any nature reserve! The Elim Conebush flowers from June to September, and produces new leaves from October to April. The fruit are scattered on the ground in summer, in time to survive the summer fires. Also known as the Bergkatjiepiering and "Elim mense", this species is only found in the "Elim flats" It is up to the local community at Elim and the neighbouring farmers to ensure that this beautiful plant will be around to be enjoyed by our children. |