Proteas Growing Guide

Protea repens, Protea susannae, Protea compacta and hybrids

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Very well-drained, nutrient-poor, acidic soil

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Cold tolerance is limited for this semi-tropical shrub. Sugarbush is injured by winter temperatures below -4°C (25°F), so the plants grow best in warm climates.

Feeding

In early spring, cover the root zone with rich compost topped by a layer of organic mulch.

Spacing

Single Plants: 2,40m (7' 10") each way (minimum)
Rows: 2,40m (7' 10") with 2,40m (7' 10") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Set out purchased plants at any time except the hottest part of summer, setting plants at the same depth they grew in their containers. Water regularly to encourage new root development during the first year after planting. In containers, use one plant per 35 cm (14-inch) pot. Proteas do well in many climatic regions of South Africa, growing naturally in coastal and mountainous habitats. They need plenty of air flow and sun. Choose varieties suitable for your garden as their sizes range considerably.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Native to South Africa, sugarbush protea is valued by plant collectors for its large, exotic blossoms that appear in the warm season. The nectar was once collected and processed into syrup. Sugarbush is challenging to grow outside its native range, but plants are often successful in Southern California and warm Mediterranean climates.

Harvesting

Sugarbush blossoms are hugely popular as cut flowers, and trimming off spent flowers also encourages the plant to produce more blossoms. Sugarbush can be pruned at any time to control the plant’s size.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Proteas

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail