KING PROTEA

These 'King Protea' (Protea Cynaroides) are the national flowers and symbol of the country of South Africa.  They produce some of the largest flower cones in the entire protea family, and are highly prized for their long lasting and compelling flowers and foliage as cut flowers.

The flower head bracts are usually light pink, but can vary from greenish white to rose red.

The King Protea Flower Cones open in a manner that suggests

as Kings "Crown".

Before opening, the Flower cones have an unusual and

distinctive appearance.  They appear to 'glow' in sunlight, and

are framed majestically by the rich green foliage.  The green leaves can have red highlights,

 are 'spoon-shaped.' and differ  in specific size, shape, and color for individual plants.  

The red stems of new growth contrast with the bright green leaves.

King Protea has a wide range of origin in South Africa, and

grows there at a range of conditions and altitudes from sea level to mountain sides.