Summary: Protea cynaroides is a South African shrub in the Proteaceae family.

Botanical name: Protea cynaroides (L.) L. Family: Proteaceae Origin: South Africa Common name: protée royale Hardiness: not very hardy (-6°C) once well established Collection CCVS Protea Protea cynaroides is a South African shrub in the Proteaceae family. As it has a very extensive habitat, the flowers are highly variable and can bloom at different times of the year, depending on the plant. This one blooms in autumn and winter. This species can reach 1.20 m in height. The foliage is evergreen. It needs sun to flower. It thrives in poor, acid soil (i.e. no limestone). It does not tolerate phosphate fertilizer, but dried blood can be added. In its habitat, it resists fire because it has a lignotuber, i.e. roots swollen with starch, which enables it to grow back from the foot. It can therefore be cut back to its lignotuber if necessary.