Protea cynaroides – King Protea, Giant Protea, King Sugarbush, Honey Pot Protea

Description

Protea cynaroides seeds can benefit from Seed Smoke Primer, which is also available in our shop. Make sure to take a look!

Protea cynaroides, commonly known as the King Protea, is a striking evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It is the national flower of the country and renowned for its spectacular, large flower heads, which can reach up to 30 cm in diameter.

The plant grows as a low, woody shrub, usually 0.5 to 1.5 m tall, with thick, leathery, oval leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flower head consists of a dense cluster of small flowers surrounded by large, stiff, pointed, colorful bracts in shades of pink, red, or creamy white, resembling an artichoke (hence the name cynaroides).

Protea cynaroides thrives in well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils and requires full sun. It is well adapted to dry, Mediterranean climates and can tolerate light frost once established. Flowering occurs mainly in spring and summer, though it may bloom sporadically throughout the year in suitable conditions.

It is highly valued as an ornamental plant and for use in cut flower arrangements, due to its unique and long-lasting blooms.