Herb: King Protea


Latin name: Protea cynaroides


Family: Proteaceae



Edible parts of King Protea:

The sweet nectar from the flowers is consumed directly.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Shrub

Height:
2 m
(6 1/2 foot)

Flowering:
June to
August

Habitat of the herb:

Moist areas in poor sandy soils at elevations of 100 - 1,000 metres. Plants have also been found growing in rock crevices at elevations up to 1,500 metres.

Propagation of King Protea:

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in the autumn in individual pots in a greenhouse. See notes above on soil requirements. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Consider giving them some protection from the cold for at least their first winter outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood. July/August in a frame.

Cultivation of the herb:

Moist areas in poor sandy soils at elevations of 100 - 1,000 metres. Plants have also been found growing in rock crevices at elevations up to 1,500 metres.

Medicinal use of King Protea:

None known

Known hazards of Protea cynaroides:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.