The protea family of plants comes from the Mediterranean regions of South Africa and Western Australia, primarily from areas of poor soils, low fertility and aridity.
There are few places in the world with a climate that can cultivate these exceptional plants; fortunately coastal California is one of them.
Pincushion proteas (or Leucospermum) may be the most recognized of the group. The symmetrical, spidery flowers are quite eye-catching, but are more often seen in flower arrangements than in gardens. Individual flowers often fetch $10 each at florists. Usually in shades of orange, but also in yellow and red, pincushion proteas are in full bloom in local gardens.
Leucadendrons may be the most underused member of the protea family of plants.
Growing from 3 to 8 feet, Leucadendrons are spectacular foliage plants and might be the workhouse group of the family. Vigorous shrubs, many offer stunning foliage in shade of fiery red, canary yellow, gold or wine.
The genus protea (a specific group of plants within the larger protea family) is also sometimes seen as cut flowers. These flowers, usually pink, have some of the largest flowers of any garden plants, often up to 6 inches in diameter and length.
Banksias are perhaps the least seen in gardens of the four protea groups mentioned here, but have great usefulness. Most species of Banksia bloom at least six months of the year and at least one species, Banksia integrifolia, blooms year round in Orange County.
All proteas are evergreen and pest-free and are suitable for gardens or containers, depending upon their size. They prune easily and incorporate well with Mediterranean and native plants.
Because proteas are native to Mediterranean climates they are well suited to Orange County. Most varieties struggle in inland valleys and deserts and have little hard frosts.
