I saw lots of proteas when I lived in Hawaii, but I didn't know they originated in South Africa. This is a king protea (protea cynaroides) from the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town. The king protea, or sugarbush, is the national flower of South Africa, and its blooms can grow as large as a foot across.
Aaaw - now you've gone & made me homesick, Robin!
I moved here from South Africa 17 years ago, and your post made me think that maybe I should go back & visit family & friends for a week or two.
The thought of 26 hour trip, (one way, including lay-over), is kind of daunting though!
Such a great picture Robin!! You will have to call me and tell me about your trip!
Thanks, everyone!
Debbie, my friend and I spent the night at a hotel in New York and got to the airport for an 11:00 AM flight to Joburg. Flying South African Airways was very nice, and it worked out to about 15 hours. When we got in, we went to a hotel near the airport and took a nap, and our tour started the next day. The night in New York made all the difference, since I just can't sleep on the plane. The trip back had a layover in Dakkar, though--avoid that if possible.
Debra, I can give you a call but I warn you I'll run up your cellphone minutes! There was so much to do and see, and I feel like I only scratched the surface. I'm ready to go back!
Robin we enjoy your photo's and description of some of your travels. Glad you enjoyed your trip and arrived back home safely to your kitties.
I love proteas, but I can’t get them to bloom in my own garden, so I have to go to the Zoo, Safari Park, and Quail Botanical Gardens to see them in bloom.
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