Proteas

The Protea is named in honour of Proteus, the Greek God of the sea who could change his shape and form at will. Like their namesake, Proteas are found in many different forms all over the world. There are thought to be around 1200 variants in existence, not including hybrids.

Proteas could well be one of the oldest flower families on earth. Fossil records show their age to be around 300 million years.

Proteas were first discovered by Botanists in South Africa. In Australia, members of the local Protea family include Waratahs, Banksias, Hakeas and Grevilleas. Although the Protea is native to both South Africa and Australia, there is no overlap in the variants of this genus across both countries.

A popular choice for bouquets worldwide, Proteas are cultivated in the United States and Israel as well as in their native homes of South Africa and Australia. Hawaii is one of the largest producers of Protea.

In the garden, Proteas are low maintenance plants which bring beautiful bursts of colour when they bloom. Known for their large blooms, some spieces have flowers which measure as large as 25cm across. They live well in most temperate conditions. Like many natives, they don’t like moist conditions. Planting them on a slope or mound will see them thrive.

With their link to Proteus, the blooms symbolise change and diversity. They make an excellent gift for someone who has experienced a positive change in their life, such as a new job or the birth of a child.

Proteas make a beautiful choice for cut flowers. Their large extravagant blooms are suited to be a centerpiece of a floral arrangement. Their form is stunning and individual. In a vase with regular water changes you can expect them to live for over a week. Proteas also make lovely dried flowers, why not press your blooms instead of discarding them? Proteas are also the flower of the star sign Aquarius.