Care of the shrub Protea cynaroides or King protea |
|
The genus Protea, family Proteaceae, includes about 80 species of shrubs and trees native to eastern and southern Africa. Some species are: Protea cynaroides, Protea eximia, Protea caffra, Protea aristata, Protea laurifolia, Protea obtusifolia, Protea barbigera, Protea cryophila. Common names: King protea, Giant protea, Honeypot or King sugar bush. This species is native to South Africa. They are evergreen shrubs with thick stem that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The leaves are large, leathery and glossy dark green. The spectacular inflorescences up to 30 cm (11.8") in diameter have red, white or pink bracts. Bloom in late spring and early summer. They are used to form bushy groups, as isolated specimens, in large pots for patios and terraces and as cut flowers. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Protea cynaroides needs direct sun exposure and a Mediterranean climate. They resist light and occasional frosts. They grow in any soil that has good drainage: sandy, poor, rocky or alkaline. Water moderately throughout the year, waiting until the substrate has completely dried. They are drought resistant plants. Do not fertilize. Prune wilted inflorescences after flowering. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated from seeds sown in autumn or late summer in the nursery and by means of semi-woody cuttings in summer. |
Images of the shrub Protea cynaroides or King protea |
 Protea cynaroides |