General Description:

Bellendena is a genus consisting of a single species in the Protea family. B.montana is a small shrub, usually less than a metre in height. The leaves may be variable in shape from elliptical to wedge-shaped, often with lobed ends. The are about 50 mm long and light green to greyish in colour. The small, white or pale pink flowers are seen mainly in summer and occur in cylindrical clusters from the ends of the stems. Flowers are followed by clusters of pendent seed pods which are often red in colour, adding greatly to the attractiveness of the species.

Although a very attractive species, mountain rocket is rarely seen in cultivation as its high altitude climate makes it difficult to maintain in gardens at lower altitudes. There has been some reported success in cold climates in well drained, moist conditions. Protection from full sun would probably be necessary in warmer climates.

Propagation from seed is reported to be very unreliable. Propagation can be carried out from cuttings of firm, current seasons’ growth.