Protea cynaroides White Crown

Description

Protea (also known as sugar bush) belongs to the Proteaceae family and is known for its spectacular, large flower heads. It is one of the iconic plants of South Africa.

Origin

• Originally from South Africa, especially the southwest and south of the Western Cape (Cape Province).
• The majority of the species are found in the (Cape Floristic Region), a biodiversity hotspot with fynbos vegetation: mountainous coastal areas, sandstone slopes and dry, sandy soils.
• Grows naturally in Mediterranean climates with wet winters and dry summers, in poor, acidic, well-drained soils, adapted to periodic fires.
• Some species are found in higher mountains or enclaves in tropical Africa, but the center is in South Africa.

Care

• Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct light per day) and an open, well-ventilated location. Avoid shade.
• Plant in very well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5), sandy, gravelly, or poor soil; No heavy clay or rich compost (too many nutrients, especially phosphorus, often kills them).
• Watering: moderate during establishment, then little and deep (drought-tolerant) Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, overwatering will cause root rot.
• Mulch with bark or gravel to keep roots cool, retain moisture, and suppress weeds Avoid organic mulch that releases too many nutrients.
• Fertilization: very little or none, do not use phosphorus-rich fertilizer (Protea is sensitive to phosphorus) In case of emergency, use a low-phosphorus, acidic fertilizer for fynbos/Proteaceae.
• Pruning: light after flowering or in the first year before form; Avoid heavy pruning on mature plants (they don’t grow back well).
• Winter hardiness: usually zones 9–12 (up to light frost around -5 to -1 °C); Grow in colder climates as a container plant and overwinter frost-free.
• Extra tip: good air circulation prevents mold; Ideal for dry, sunny gardens, coastal areas or pots with cactus/cactus mix.