King Protea – 5 Seeds

The King Protea (Protea cynaroides) is South Africa’s national flower. Summer Flowering. Common Names include: King Sugarbush, (Afrikaans: Koningsuikerbos). It is a woody shrub with large dark green, glossy leaves. The thick stems grow from an underground root-stock. As with most proteas it grows in soils with very low amounts of nutrients. It is adapted to survive fires and can be grown in harsh environments with dry, hot summers and wet, cold winters.

The tough, leathery leaves prevent excessive loss of moisture, and a large taproot penetrates deep into the soil to reach underground moisture. Large, vigorous plants produce six to ten flower heads in one season although some plants have many more than this. Not well suited to very dry areas, regions with very severe frost or to hot humid conditions.

Growing King Protea

Indoor Sowing: Spring and Autumn.

Direct Sowing: Spring and Autumn.

• Seeds can be sown in autumn or spring when the difference between day and night temperatures is about 12ºC. Where winters are cold, plant in spring and where winters are mild, plant in autumn.
• To increase the chance of germination, the seeds should be treated with a smoke primer .
• The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5. A mixture of coarse river sand, peat or decomposed pine needles and vermiculite or perlite in a ratio of 2:2:1 is suggested.
• The seeds should be planted to a depth equal to their size and watered well.
• Place the seeds in a semi-shaded position and protect them from rodents, birds and insects.
• Water lightly with a fine spray in the early morning and during the day if necessary – do not allow them to dry out at any time.
• Germination will occur between 1 and 3 months.