Some of the most spectacular species in the diverse vegetation of the Cape region of South Africa are the proteas. The king protea which is now the national flower of South Africa, is a highly unusual exotic plant with inflorescences up to 30 cm across. Pink (or occasionally crimson) pointed outer bracts covered with silky hairs surround the central mound of lilac flowers. This species was introduced to Britain from South Africa in 1775 by Francis Masson, Kew's first official plant collector.
PLANT TYPE: Exotic.
EVENTUAL HEIGHT: Up to 1m when mature
HARDINESS: Can be grown successfully out of doors in sheltered areas and against south-facing walls, although will grow better if given protection in glasshouses or conservatories over winter
FLOWERING PERIOD: June - September
POSITION: Full sun, sheltered site, out of wind in well drained slightly acidic soil
PRODUCT TYPE: 8cm Pot Plant Height 15-20cm
All our plants are shipped in specially designed packaging to keep the root system in place and the foliage protected in transit. Your plant will be supplied in a nursery grown 8cm pot. This can be planted straight out into your garden, but would benefit from growing on in a larger pot for a few weeks first.
