Protea cynaroides (King Protea)

Protea cynaroides (King Protea) Details

Protea cynaroides, commonly known as the King Protea, is the largest flower head of all the Protea varieties and is the national flower of South Africa. It grows as a woody shrub to about 1.2 m tall and 1.5 m wide with thick stems and large, dark green, glossy leaves. It features flowers with deep crimson bracts and a cream-coloured centre from autumn through until spring. Best results with Protea cynaroides is achieved when it is grown in full sun on a well-drained site that has a low phosphate content. It is tolerant of extended dry periods, frost, and cool climates though some protection while establishing will benefit the performance of this plant. The King Protea is a versatile plant that is often included in a mixed planting, added to a coastal planting, planted around the pool area, or grown anywhere the beauty of the large flowers can be enjoyed. The flower has a long vase life and is excellent for drying.