Types of Proteas
Proteas are shrubs that vary from a low, spreading habit to tree-like habit 20 feet tall. All proteas are adapted to grow in hot climates, but the 1,500-plus species of proteas are adapted for different altitude, soil type and soil moisture. There are three leaf types, but many leaf shapes.
Isobilateral
Isobilateral protea leaves are the same on both sides. The leaves are upright to face the sun in both the morning and afternoon, but shade the sides at noon to save water. Some are branched.
Terete
Terete protea leaves are short, thin and cylindrical, like pine needles or rosemary. Their compact size minimizes surface area where water can be lost. Some are branched.
Canaliculate
Canaliculate protea leaves hug close to the stem so that they shade the stem from heat while they protect the soft inner-leaf surface, where pores take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis.
Fire
To survive fire, some protea burn, then grow back from a woody tuber on their roots. Other protea have seeds that stay dormant in ant tunnels until high heat causes germination. Some protea hold their seeds on the dead flower head until a burn releases them.
Southern Hemisphere
Protea are found only in the Southern hemisphere, mostly in Cape Province, South Africa. Members of their family, proteacea, are also found in New South Wales, Australia, and in South America.
Related posts
Pampas grass is hardy in zone 7 if given good drainage.Ornamental grasses add a casual, naturalistic element to gardens, particularly to large landscapes. Gardeners in U.S. Department of Agricultu...
Dulse seaweed is a type of edible red seaweed that is high in protein.There are three main types of seaweed algae: green, brown and red. Red seaweed can grow at depths of up to 879 feet, deeper th...
Many bird species. such as the blackbird, can be identified by their yellow beaks.Birdwatchers rely on the color and shape of bird beaks as one key to identification. For many types of birds world...
Types of Birds in North AmericaNorth American birds include numerous types, colors and sizes. Many birds of prey, songbirds and others belong to the North American birds group.Boreal OwlBoreal owl...
A canary is a small songbird that was domesticated to be a companion bird for humans. Contrary to popular belief, a canary just isn't a small, yellow bird. There are several types of canaries that...
