Proteas are one of the most dramatic and unique flowers in the floral world. With their bold, architectural blooms and incredible variety of shapes and textures, they make an unforgettable statement in any arrangement. Native to South Africa and Australia, proteas have a wild, exotic beauty that is unlike anything else. They are also surprisingly hardy and long-lasting, making them a fantastic choice for events and home decor.

Like all of our flowers, proteas are not ready to display the moment they arrive. Give them a little time to hydrate and open up after their journey.

A Note on Varieties and Availability

Proteas come in a wide range of varieties, including King Protea, Pincushion, Banksia, Blushing Bride, and many more, each with its own completely unique look, size, and texture. Part of what makes proteas so special is just how different each variety can be from the next!

It is important to know that many protea varieties are seasonal and not available year-round. Availability can change depending on the time of year and growing conditions. If you have your heart set on a specific variety for a wedding, event, or project, we strongly recommend planning ahead and ordering as early as possible to avoid disappointment. When in doubt, reach out to us and we can let you know what is currently available.

What You'll Need

• A clean vase
• Fresh, cool water
• Sharp scissors or floral shears

Step-by-Step Care Instructions

1. Unpack promptly. Remove your proteas from the packaging as soon as they arrive and let them breathe.
2. Trim the stems. Cut 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of each stem at a 45-degree angle. Protea stems are woody and thick, so use sharp, sturdy shears for a clean cut.
3. Remove lower foliage. Strip any leaves that would sit below the waterline. Protea leaves can decay quickly in water and cause bacterial buildup, so be thorough with this step.
4. Fill your vase. Use clean, cool water. Proteas do not require floral preservative but benefit from fresh, clean water.
5. Change the water every 2 days. Re-trim the stems each time to keep them drinking well.
6. Keep in a cool spot. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources. A cool, well-ventilated space is ideal for proteas.

Pro Tips

• They dry beautifully: Proteas are one of the best flowers for drying. Simply hang them upside down in a cool, dry spot or leave them in a vase without water and let them dry naturally. They hold their shape and color remarkably well for months.
• Remove leaves promptly: Protea leaves tend to deteriorate faster than the blooms themselves. Remove any leaves that start to yellow or wilt to keep the arrangement looking fresh and to prevent the water from fouling.
• Woody stems need extra care: Because protea stems are woody, re-cutting them regularly is especially important. A fresh cut every time you change the water makes a big difference in how well they drink.

Florist Secret

To help woody protea stems absorb water more efficiently, after trimming at an angle, use your scissors or shears to make a small vertical split up the center of the stem base, about half an inch deep. This extra surface area allows the stem to take up significantly more water and helps the bloom stay hydrated and looking its best for longer!

How Long Will They Last?

With proper care, proteas typically last around 7 days in a vase, though this varies by variety. With extra attention to fresh water and cool temperatures, they may last even longer. And once dried, they can last for months as a stunning, long-lasting accent in your home.