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Description
Protea Cynaroides, also known as the king protea or giant protea, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It is the national flower of South Africa and grows on the slopes of Table Mountain and other high-altitude areas. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has large, showy flowers that range in color from white to pink to deep red. The flower heads can reach up to 12 inches in diameter and are made up of many small flowers surrounded by colorful bracts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Protea |
Appearance
The king protea has a woody stem and large, leathery leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers are the most striking feature of the plant and can be white, pink, or red. The bracts surrounding the flower heads are typically a deeper shade of the flower color and can be tinged with green. The flower heads can last for several weeks and are often used in floral arrangements.
Care Guide
Protea Cynaroides requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. The plant prefers a sunny location and can tolerate temperatures down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. The plant is not tolerant of high levels of phosphorous, so care should be taken when selecting a fertilizer. Hardiness zones for the king protea are 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The king protea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem for the plant.
Habitat
Protea Cynaroides is native to the mountains of South Africa and can be found growing on slopes and in rocky areas. The plant prefers a Mediterranean climate with dry, hot summers and cool, wet winters. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in other parts of the world, including California and Australia.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can I grow Protea Cynaroides in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and sufficient sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my king protea?
A: The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: How long do the flowers last?
A: The flower heads can last for several weeks.
Q: Can I propagate the plant from cuttings?
A: Yes, the king protea can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Protea Magnifica
- Protea Neriifolia
- Protea Repens
- Protea Obtusifolia
References
- “Protea Cynaroides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed April 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286963&isprofile=0&basic=protea%20cynaroides
- “King Protea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed April 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/22277/Protea-cynaroides/Details
- “Protea Cynaroides.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed April 20, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/protea-cynaroides
