Protea -King-Queen-Pink Mink
Common Names: Protea, King Protea, Queen Protea, Pink Mink
Botanical names: Protea, (PRO-tee-a)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 14 to 21 days
Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: Some varieties are sensitive.
Description: Large, round, dramatic flower heads surrounded by colorful bracts at the end of long, woody stems. King Protea flower heads up to 12 inches across on stems 24 to 36 inches long. Queen Protea flower heads 5 to 7 inches across on stems 18 to 24 inches long. Pink Mink flower heads 3 inches across on stems 16 to 24 inches long.
Color: King- pink with whitish center; Queen- pink with cream-yellow center; Pink Mink- pink with pink centers and black mink fur like edges on their bracts.
Botanical facts: Protea is a member of the Proteaceae family which includes over 100 species of trees and shrubs, most of which are native to the cape region of South Africa.
Design notes: Wonderful, unusual and exotic blossoms add texture and visual interest to floral designs. Protea make a dramatic focal point in floral designs.
Purchasing hints: Purchase well-formed heads. Avoid blossoms which have leaves that are turning black.
Conditioning: Remove all foliage that will be below the water line. Break or cut the ends of woody stems. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Leaves usually turn black due to low light, lack of carbohydrate and warm temperatures. To reduce leaf blackening, replace water and commercial floral food every two days.
Video Demonstration: