Protea is a large genus with over 90 species, all native to South Africa. Protea flowers are large and don’t have petals, which explains their rather tough exterior. The colourful parts of Protea flowers are bracts, not petals, which surround the tiny fluffy true flowers in the centre of each flowerhead. There are many species used as cut flowers, the most common are Pink mink (P. neriifolia), Pink Ice (a P. neriifolia hybrid), and the spectacular King protea (P. cynaroides). Colours are mostly cream and pink, red, pale yellow or white. Breeding programs in Australia, South Africa and Hawaii have delivered a number of new hybrids. ‘Pink Ice’, for example, which is a P. neriifolia hybrid, was bred in Australia.
Proteas are borne on strong woody stems with tough fibrous green leaves. The leaves can discolour to form brown or black spots or marks before the flower dies, but recent selection and breeding work has gone some way to minimising this problem. Blackening is most common in Pink Mink, Pink Ice, P.eximia and Queen Protea.
Proteas are grown in the field on large bushes. Plantations are found all over Australia, and these flowers are also grown in South Africa, Israel and the US, including Hawaii.
You can order from us online at www.stannesflorist.com.au call us on 08 9388 8844 or come into our Perth Shop at 111 Newcastle Street, Perth WA 6000
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