Leucospernum, also known as the Pincushion Protea, the Pinwheel Protea, the Skyrocket Protea, Sunburst Proteas and their uses in floral art. Hints for flower arrangements and books about them.

Origin: South Africa where Leucospernum are wild flowers. In the Oorlogskloof is an abundance of Leucospernum calligerum, Leucosperum procerum and Leucosperum sheilae. Leucospermum gerrardii, one of the pin-cushion proteas, is found growing in open grassland areas. Pincushion, Sunburst Leucosperum cordifolium Leucospermum gerrardii, Looks like a burst of fireworks. These blooms are made up of petals with shape and texture like pine needles. It keeps its globular shape and doesn't go back or flat. Flower 3-4" (7.5-10cm) across, stems 12-18" (30-45cm) long. Pinwheel Leucospermum catherinae Coarser than the pincushion, as it has less "pins" or styles. Reflexes back completely flat on opening, so 4-5" diameter when fully open. Skyrocket  Leucospermum  reflexum  Has conventional  "pin-cushion" shape the  first 1-3 days, then  styles  flatten and eventually  reflex back. They then shang down parallel to  stem, so they look like a rocket taking off.

Leucospernums need a substantial vase, deep and somewhat heavy  because of the weight of the flowers.If you are using floral foam blocks, cover them in netting or a cage first  so the stems have more of a firm footing in the arrangement and the floral foam won't crumble under their weight. Nip the end of each stem to allow the flowers to absorb water. Rinse your vase with bleach to remove any bacteria which could shorten the life of your flowers  Change the water frequently   Place the flowers in an area with good air circulation (Leucospernums generate considerable heat) Last for 1-2 weeks. - Inez of Russell, New Zealand uses Leucospernum to full effect in this  lovely arrangement For the workshop on creating a modern diagonal design similar to this click here

In her wonderful book,"Candles" Paula Pryke uses Leucospernum in a table design, with 3 candles, orange roses, and purple violets. For full instructions on making this lovely arrangement, Paula's book is available here. You will also get 20 other flower arranging projects, all featuring candles, and all in Paula's modern, imaginative style.More...

Jane  Packer is the master of making  effective arrangements quickly! She uses a single leucospernum to wrap a gift,  as just one of the many ideas in her book "Fast Flowers". If you are looking for dozens of ideas for 5 minute displays that still have the wow factor, this is the book for you.More...