Best Travel Destinations for Seeing Proteas

Proteas, protoaceae, are a special type of flower that grows on an evergreen shrub that are native to South Africa. They need good drainage, preferably on the side of hills and good air circulation to grow. They are a popular florist flower because they hold their color for several weeks and have large blossoms with tubular petals. [1] King Protea's, protoacea cynaroides, grow to ten feet tall with flower heads that are 5 inches in diameter.

Proteas are primarily grown in zone 23, but can be grown in zones 16, 17, 21-24 which in the Western Part of the United States, is mostly located around San Francisco, California which has a year around growing season and the foggy weather associated with marine weather.

To see more examples of proteas and plants grown in the botanical gardens, see my slideshow Protea Flower Photograph Slide Show.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, South Africa

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in South Africa is noted for the collection of fine proteas and other garden plants. We loved the walk through the winding paths on our first honeymoon, especially since we often had to duck behind a bush to snatch a kiss since our driver tried to act as our duenna. Kirstenbosch National Garden is a typical stop on noted Garden Route trips through South Africa, and is located on the Cape of Good Hope near Cape Town. We especially loved getting the chance to see sunbirds, a native South African bird similar to a hummingbird. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens contain over 7000 species grown on 36 hectares of a 528 hectare estate. Hours 8-6, cost R35
.

Kula Botanical Gardens, Maui

When you drive up to the top of Mount Haleakala, you run into Kula Botanical Gardens on the isle of Maui. This botanical garden hosts many proteas. Nearby nurseries grow and sell the proteas, usually as either fresh or dried bouquets shipped to your home. Kula Botanical Gardens is pretty unique in it's perch along a steep slope. Visitors should expect to carry an umbrella, the gardens have many spares to offer to their guests. Kula Botanical gardens is only 8 acres large, but is very scenic and grown in a rock garden style with native birds in abundance. Admission $10, hours 9-4

San Francisco Botanical Gardens, San Francisco, California

Although I haven't been to San Francisco Botanical Gardens, it's listed as one of the better places to see Proteas because they have a garden dedicated to the plants of South Africa. They have more than 7,000 plants in the 55 acre park. Hours 9-4

To buy proteas in the United States, try one of these sites:

Maui Flower Grower's Association

California Protea Association