Pincushion Protea
Leucospermum, better known as the pincushion protea, opens into a rounded dome of curving styles that look like pins in a cushion, in vivid oranges, yellows and corals. It brings fiery colour and playful texture to tropical, bohemian and contemporary work. The wiry, woody stems are long-lasting and hold up well out of water for a time, making the flower a favourite for bouquets and installations. Each bloom reads as a small burst of sunlight.
| Family | Proteaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | South Africa (Cape Floristic Region) |
| Peak season | March, April |
| Availability | December, January, February, March, April, May, June |
| Stem length | 30–60 cm |
| Vase life | 10–18 days |
| Colors | orange, yellow, coral, red |
| Price tier | mid |
Recut the firm, woody stem on an angle and condition in clean water with a glucose-rich flower food. Strip the lower leaves, which blacken and spoil the water if left submerged. Keep pincushions cool and well lit, as poor light hastens leaf blackening. They are thirsty, so check and refresh the water regularly.
- •Recut stems at an angle
- •Strip foliage below the waterline
- •Feed with glucose-rich flower food
- •Keep cool and brightly lit
- •Refresh water regularly
- •Handle the styles gently to avoid bruising
