Protea obtusifolia resembles P. repens but has broader leaves and the shape of the involucral bracts around the flowerheads are characteristic of the species. Flowering happens from mid-autumn to early spring.
The shrubs grow strongly to heights from 2 m to 4 m and spread to a broad, rounded shape.
The distribution is coastal from Stanford to Riversdale, mostly on the Agulhas Plain, sometimes commonly referred to as the Bredasdorp protea where it is much seen.
In nature this protea only grows in limestone derived soils, often on hills, flats and limestone outcrops. As a garden plant, however, it also grows well in acid soil.
Reduction of the species distribution includes loss of the region from Onrus near Hermanus to Stanford, due to human impact. The species is considered to be near threatened in its habitat, on account of agricultural and other activities in the region (Rourke, 1980; Eliovson, 1983; www.redlist.sanbi.org).