Protea
Each stem features a large, dome-shaped bloom made from layers of smooth petals. Towards the top of the bloom, the petals curve inwards towards a fuzzy core. Proteas are surrounded by stiff colored bracts, giving a crown-like appearance. Colors range from pink and white to red.
Family: Proteacea
Species: Protea Cynaroides
Origin: Native to South Africa
Symbolizes: The protea symbolizes change and transformation.
Also Known As: King Protea
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 40-50F (4-10C). Proteas are not tropical flowers, which should never be refrigerated;however, they prefer less-chill temperatures than some other cutflowers. Placing them in a floral refrigerator at 40 degrees F (4C) and 85% humidity is ideal.
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 10-20 Days
What to Look for When Purchasing
Stems are cut when mature (no soft tips), and the flowers when at least the outer florets are fully expanded. Make sure leaves are not black.
Foam Info
Performs well.
Design Tips
Give your event an exotic twist with the impressive Protea. They make stunning, unusual focals and hold up well in foam or vase arrangements. In fact protea will dry as is and remain perfect preserved indefinitely. This unique, textural bloom is ideal for tropical events, but works great for any unconventional arrangement. The large size of many protea flowers, along with their thick (often woody) stems and distinctive shapes, do require a different treatment design-wise.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Low
Pest & Disease Information
N/A
Troubleshooting
Leaf blackening due to low light conditions. To prevent black leaf spots and blackened leaf tips, keep proteas in a well-lighted area, always use flower food, and keep them away from high temperatures. Decaying leaves in the buckets may also contribute to the physiological problem of black leaf spots. Lack of hydration due to water stress. Leaf blackening due to storage conditions. Be sure to use fresh flower food to reduce/prevent these issues.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Protea, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.