ISHS Acta Horticulturae 545: V International Protea Research Symposium
PROTEACEAE: BEYOND THE BIG THREE |
| Author: | R.A. Criley |
| Keywords: | Banksia, Grevillea, Telopea, Isopogon, Dryandra, Conospermum, Serruria, Mimetes, Stenocarpus |
| Abstract:
The genera Protea, Leucospermum, and Leucadendron account for the great majority of cut flowers in the Family Proteaceae. All three have their origins in the Cape Floral Kingdom of South Africa. There are more proteaceous genera endemic to both South Africa and Australia, however, and these offer potential in a variety of ornamental uses, including cut flowers, cut foliage, decorative dried materials, potted plants, and various landscape uses. Expansion of markets to include other proteaceous plants will come with an appreciation of these potentials as well as research that overcomes some of problems of their culture and management. Such problems include difficulties in propagation, low tolerance for high fertility (especially phosphorus), diseases, and lack of knowledge about culture, management, and postharvest handling for floral longevity. Some proteaceous genera are already well-known (Banksia, Grevillea, Telopea, and Serruria, for example), while others are awaiting discovery outside of their native areas. This review paper provides some information about habit and habitat of additional proteaceous genera, beyond the Big Three, namely Banksia, Grevillea, Telopea, Isopogon, Dryandra, Conospermum, Serruria, Mimetes, and Stenocarpus, and identifies their potential uses and problems that might challenge researchers. | |
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