Pincushion Protea

Did you know

• The flower heads contain hundreds of individual flowers, each with a long protruding style that gives the pincushion appearance.
• Seeds are dispersed by ants, which carry them underground to their nests, protecting them from fire and predators.
• Like all Proteaceae family members, pincushion proteas have specialized cluster roots that mine phosphorus from poor soils.
• The Cape Floristic Region where they grow is the smallest of the world's six plant kingdoms but has the highest species density.
• They thrive after wildfires, which stimulate seed germination and eliminate competing vegetation.

Color meanings

Uses

• cut flowers
• ornamental landscaping
• dried arrangements