Pronounced PRO-tee-uh, the protea is one of the oldest flowering plants on Earth — dating back over 300 million years! With their bold forms and unusual textures, these striking blooms add a sculptural edge and dry beautifully, making them a sure fire hit for a long lasting arrangement.
Native to dry, sunny regions like South Africa and parts of Southern California, proteas thrive in heat and are grown outdoors rather than in hothouses — giving them a potentially lower carbon footprint despite being shipped internationally.
At Quince, we stock proteas almost all year round, thanks to their global growing cycle. From the massive King Protea (South Africa’s national flower) with a head spanning up to 12 inches, to the dainty and romantic Blushing Bride, these blooms come in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. No two are quite alike — fitting for a flower named after Proteus, the shape-shifting Greek sea god.
Care Tips for Protea at Home
When you bring them home, trim about half an inch off the stems and remove any leaves that would sit below the water line. You can also remove a few leaves near the flower head to really let the bloom shine.
Proteas are low-maintenance but thirsty — check their water levels often. And when their time in water is done, don’t toss them! These flowers dry naturally and hold their shape and colour well. Simply hang them upside down in a dark, dry spot or let them dry in the vase.
