The name "protea" derives from Proteus, the shape shifting Greek sea god, and just like the greek god, proteas come in a  variety of flower shapes and plant forms. Members of this ancient tribe of proteaceae pronounce "pro-tay-see-aye" plants occur as shrubs and trees in all the Southern continents, often with strikingly beautiful flower heads.  Important families within the overall protea tribe include the proteas themselves, the leucadendrons and leucospermums  also from Africa, and the banksias, grevilleas and telopeas from Australia. 

Some species, such as the beautiful King Protea (Protea Cynaroides), are widely cultivated both for cut flowers and as garden shrubs.

Many other proteaceae species still grow wild; for example on Table Mountain and in the Cape of Good Hope National Park, where visitors can easily spot them by the characteristic persistent cone-like dried flower heads.

The root system of proteas is sensitive to disturbance and overfeeding, so use a slow release low phosphate fertiliser and avoid cultivation around the base of the plant.  Thus watering is best done from below, use only soft water or rainwater.

Proteas are tougher plants than their flowers imply. At SAflora, we aim for a winter minimum of 5 degrees Celsius but some kinds (e.g. P. cynaroides) can tolerate freezing temperatures provided their soil is well drained. They are best suited in a heated conservatory or greenhouse. In a well lit airy position, the more sunshine hours the better. In summer they will benefit from being placed outside in a sheltered position on a patio.

There are a number of books on this subject we specialise in the Grow Proteas book from Kirstenbosch in South Africa. This can be ordered by clicking on the recommended guide below. More books on this subject can be found by clicking on the More books button and they can also be ordered via our web site. RECOMMENDED GUIDE

The Nursery is not open to the Public. Contact Information: Email: nursery@safloraplants.com Saflora Plants, Penylan, North Road, Lampeter, SA48 7JA, United Kingdom Telephone  01570 422924

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