Family: Proteaceae
Common Name: Conesticks

The Proteaceae family includes Banksia, Hakea and Grevillea, as well as this genus of about 40 species of shrubs. Native to Australia, mostly Western Australia, they have very attractive, variable foliage and dense terminal spikes of cone-like flowers, followed by woody, cone-like fruits. Both the foliage and the woody cones are used in floral work. In the wild, these shrubs grow mainly on sand, gravel and granite soils. They are not readily available outside their native Australia.

Species

P. acicularis is a low-growing shrub, to about 60 cm (24 in), with red, spring flowers.

P. biloba, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) high, has large, pink and gray flowers in late winter and lobed, pointed leaves.

P. canescens (Synonym: P. sessilis) is an upright-growing shrub which may reach around 3 m (10 ft) at maturity. The finely divided leaves are creamy yellow and the flowers are borne during spring to early summer. The cones are 3-4 cm (about 1½ in) long and gray and woody.

P. linearis has thick, entire leaves and pink flowers.

P. pedunculata is a stiff, upright shnrb, to about 3 m (10 ft), with divided leaves and stalkless, yellow flower heads in spring.

P. pulchella grows to 2 m (6 ft), producing pale yellow flowers in spring and summer.

P. teretifolia may sometimes be a dwarf form, though it mostly grows to around 1 m (3 ft). It has sharp, dark green leaves and loose terminal clusters of soft, velvety pink and gray flowers.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in an airy, cool greenhouse or conservatory in acid, well drained, soil-based potting compost. Outdoors, these plants must have perfect drainage and acid to neutral soil. Coarse, sandy or gravelly soils suit them well and their root zone should be mulched with decayed leat mould. Check that the mulch does not pack around the stem or the plants will rot. Most species prefer full sun, but some will do well in light, dappled shade. Plants can be watered during the growing season, however, established plants are very drought-tolerant. If fertilizer is needed, use low-phosphorus, slow-release types. Propagate from seed. Germination may be erratic and may take from six to eight weeks.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 9.