PROTEA cynaroides

The King Protea is one of the most popular varieties, having one of the largest flower heads in the protea family. They are stunning in the garden, on the patio and in flower arrangements.

The huge flowers can grow to 25 cm across and are fairly long-lived and prized as cut flowers as they retain their blooms after removed from the plant.
Flowers may bloom on and off for much of the year, with a concentration in warmer months. In their native habit, King Protea's are found in a variety of colours, ranging from whites to pinks and reds. Native to South Africa.

Prefers a light well-drained soil in an open sunny position, drought resistant but frost tender. Adaptable to a range of climates.

Grow notes:

The best time to sow is usually autumn or spring when the temperature range is between 16-22°C and there is difference of day and night temperatures of around 12°C.
If your summer is hot and dry and your winter is moderate and wet the best time to sow is autumn.
In colder climates with less harsh summers it is usually better to sow in spring.

1. The growing medium should be well draining but should remain damp between watering.
2. Sow the seed the depth on the seed size. Vermiculite is a good medium to use to cover the surface as it helps retain moisture and controls the temperature. 
3. Keep moist but not too wet as the seed may rot. Do not let the growing mix completely dry out. 
4. Germination should occur in 21-60 days depending on the temperature and conditions. 

Pre-treatment of smoke is recommended:
Members of the Proteaceae are responsive to pre-treatment of smoke. Although germination will often occur without smoke treatment it has proved to be beneficial in reducing the number of days to germination and increasing germination rates in many species of the Proteaceae family 
Smoke treatments are simple and can be undertaken either by soaking the seed overnight or by applying to the surface after sowing, both provide good results. Smoke treatments available by clicking here.