National Flower of South Africa | Protea Cynaroides Flower of Africa
Biological Name
The biological name of this flower is Protea. The common name of this plant is the same as the botanical name.
Color
The flower is found in different colors such as pink, red and yellow.
Petals
The petals are long and pointy. In some species, the petals are slender.
Origin
Proteas are native to South Africa and are very common in the country.
National Flower of South Africa:
The protea is the national flower of South Africa. The local cricket team is also called Proteas after this floral emblem. In the country, it represents hope and change.
Protea Information:
Proteas caught the attention of botanists in the 17th century when they came to the Cape of Good Hope. The flowers were then introduced in Europe and became popular among the botanists in the area. The flowers are cultivated in more than 20 countries around the world in subtropical regions. The growth of this flower is a time-consuming process so there needs to be a lot of planning done before the flower is cultivated. Some of the species of this flower are self-pollinating which means that they pollinate themselves while others grow through cross-pollination. This is done by insects and birds.
Protea Facts and Uses:
- The National flower is named after a Greek god who was the Son of Poseidon. This god had the ability to transform himself into different things.
- The flowers are unusual and look quite mythological.
- There are 360 species of this flower present in Australia and South Africa.
- The Proteas flowers are also called sugar bush in South Africa and more than 60% of them are found in the Cape Floristic Region.
Protea Medicine Uses:
The flower is used for treating stomach issues like diarrhea and digestive issues or ulcers.
Protea Flower Art:
Proteas is the most widely grown plant in the Cape Floristic Region.