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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Proteaceae (Proteas) |
| Origin: South Africa (Africa) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Pink |
| Bloomtime: Year-round |
| Height: 3-5 feet |
| Width: 4-6 feet |
| Exposure: Full Sun |
| Seaside: Yes |
| Summer Dry: Yes |
| Deer Tolerant: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 25-30° F |
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Protea cynaroides (King Protea) - Shrub with reddish stems and large rounded green leaves to 3 to 5 feet tall and wide with huge 5-10 inch flowers. These pale silky pink or sometimes deep crimson flowers, form a roundish central peak of flowers surrounded by rays of darker pink bracts. Flowers cover the shrub from autumn to spring with some scattered bloom throughout the year. Plant in full sun in a well-drained, preferably acid, soil. Requires little irrigation and tolerates coastal conditions. Protect from frost and temperatures below 28° F. Cut flowering stems back to base after flowering. It is an attractive garden plant for a nice well-drained site in the garden or as a container specimen and a great cut flower for arrangements. This species has a wide distribution through the fynbos in the southern parts of South Africa, an area subject to wildfires for which Protea cynaroides is well adapted with its thick underground stems that have dormant buds that sprout up after a fire. It is the national flower of South Africa. The genus and plant family is named for the Greek god Proteus, who was able to change between many forms and reflects the incredible variety and diversity of the plants in the family. The specific epithet means like plants in the genus Cynara, the Artichoke, in reference to the like appearance of the flower buds. Other common names include Giant Protea, Honeypot and King Sugar Bush. We also grow a dwarf form called 'Mini King'.
This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Protea cynaroides.
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