My Garden
| Category | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennial plant | |
| Estimated Plant Lifespan | 50 years lifespan | |
| Sun Requirements | 6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun) | |
| Pollination | Method: animal Notes: Primarily pollinated by birds and insects. Hand pollination can increase seed production in commercial settings. | |
| Watering Requirements | Method: Top water Frequency: Water deeply during establishment and then sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Notes: Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. | |
| Humidity Requirements | Level: Moderate | |
| Cleaning Requirements | Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove spent flower heads. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. | |
| Temperature Range | Min: -4°C Max: 35°C | |
| Alternative Names | Blue Sugarbush, Narrowleaf Sugarbush, Blue Protea, Cream Mink, Feathered Red, Frosted Fire, Green Velvet, Mink Sugarbush, Narrow-Leaved Protea, Neriifolia, Oleander-Leaf Erodendrum, Oleander-Leaved Sugarbush, Pinkmink Protea, Silk n Satin, Narrow-Leaf Sugarbush, Narrow-Leaved Sugarbush, Oleander-Leaf Sugarbush, White-Mink Protea, Green Ice, Moonshine, Australis Ruby |
Cultivars
Arctic Ice
Pine trees acidify the soil and compete for resources, hindering the growth of Protea neriifolia, which prefers slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soils.
Aphids suck sap from new growth, causing distorted leaves and reduced flowering. Look for clusters of small insects on stems and undersides of leaves, as well as sticky honeydew.
Scale insects attach themselves to stems and leaves, sucking sap and weakening the plant. They appear as small, immobile bumps and can cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Steps:
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems in late summer or early autumn.
- Cuttings should be approximately 8-10 cm long.
- Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining propagation mix (e.g., perlite and vermiculite).
- Keep the cuttings moist and in a sheltered location with indirect light.
- Roots should develop in 6-8 weeks.
Neem Oil
Effective against aphids and scale insects on Protea neriifolia.
Seaweed Extract
Can improve overall plant health and disease resistance.
Bone Meal
Slow-release phosphorus fertilizer to promote strong root development.