King protea (Protea cynaroides)

King protea

Features and Characteristics

Protea cynaroides, commonly called king protea, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is native to South Africa. It typically matures to 3-4′ (less frequently to 6′) tall. It is best known for its huge goblet or bowl-shaped flower heads from 5″ to 12″ in diameter. Each flower head consists of a large, domed, central mass of tepaled inner flowers subtended and surrounded by stiff, pointed, showy bracts ranging in color from red, to pink to creamy white. In its native habitat, flower heads will bloom sporadically throughout the year, but primarily in the warmer months. Somewhat leathery, rounded to elliptic, glossy, dark green leaves grow to 5 1/2″ long.

Genus name honors the Greek sea-god, Proteus, with the power of assuming a diversity of shapes a reference to the diversity within the genus.

Specific epithet means “like Cynara” (artichoke genus) in reference to the artichoke-like appearance of the flower heads.

King protea is the national flower of South Africa.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 9-10 where it is typically grown in acidic, poor to average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Best with moderate amounts of water once established.

King protea (Protea cynaroides) Requirements

Hardiness zone	9 - 12
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No known serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Ornamental flowering shrub or garden specimen in frost free areas. Produces magnificent fresh cut or dried flowers. Greenhouse plant in colder areas.

King protea (Protea cynaroides) Details

Common name	King protea
Botanical name	Protea cynaroides
Plant type	Broadleaf evergreen
Family	Proteaceae
Hardiness zone	9 - 12
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Red to pink to creamy white
Flowering period	Seasonal bloomer
Height	3 - 4 ft.
Width	3 - 4 ft.