The plant is endemic to South Africa and occurs from the Du Toitskloof Mountains to the Langeberg and Waboomsberg.

[2][3] The plant grows to 2 m in diameter and flowers from July to September with its peak in August.

The seeds are stored in a shell and spread by the wind.

Pollination takes place through the action of rats and mice.

The plant grows on dry slopes of Karoo fynbos at altitudes of 450 - 1 200 m.[2]