Protea

Proteas - sometimes called Sugar Bush - are evergreen shrubs that bear exotic-looking large blooms. They prefer well drained, acidic soil that is not too heavy. These South African natives will die if their root system becomes waterlogged. They are not hardy and must be offered winter protection if grown in colder temperate climates. Most often, in these regions they are grown in containers being moved outside only in the warmer months. Indoors, good ventilation and air circulation is essential.

Contributed by @hetty

plant Features

Full sun
Very little water
Not Frost hardy
Light and free draining

plant information

Common name

Protea

Latin name

Protea

type

Flowering shrubs or trees

family

Proteaceae

ph

3.0 - 5.5 Acid - Neutral

Light

Full sun
Frost

Not Frost hardy

Soil

Light and free draining
Water

Very little water

Plant & bloom calendar

Best time to plant

full grown dimensions

1.50 M 1.50 M

Protea

Planting indoors

From Early Spring TO Early Spring

If proteas are grown in containers add crocks to the bottom of them to improve drainage. Compost needs to be well drained and acidic. A mixture of peat, bark, grit and polystyrene beads is ideal. The essential bit is that the compost in your container is well drained. They need full sunlight and plenty of well circulated air.

Planting outside

From Early Spring TO Early Spring

Position in full sun, preferably on a south facing slope in well drained, acidic soil which is low in nutrients. Winter protection must be provided in temperatures below 5C, especially for young, newly planted protea.

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