Helen - Cape Flora

Cape Flora (image Forage Safaris)

Who: Helen Holland, Cape Flora

Where: Quindalup

What season: Year round

Farm Highlight: Walking tour

Proteas are native to southern Africa and belong to the same family of plants (Proteaceae) as Australia’s native Banksias, Grevilleas and Waratahs. The family Proteaceae was one of the earliest groups of flowering plants, dispersing and diversifying throughout Gondwana before the breakup of the subcontinent. With about 1600 species, it is a major plant group in many southern hemisphere floras. (Royal Botanic Garden Sydney).

 The protea is also the national flower of South Africa, earning it’s name from the striking petals that resemble a crown, as well as South Africa’s cricket team adopting the name Protea. In Greek Legend, Proteus, the son of the Greek God Poseidon, was known for his wisdom and his ability to change his appearance and shape. The protea flower was name after Proteus due to its name, shape and colours.

 This quite clearly explains the perfect climate for our botanical immigrant to thrive in the south west region of Western Australia and where better place to learn and view this beautiful plant and other unique plants native to Australia, but at Cape Flora.

 Helen, Shirley and Moose the dog welcome us and take us on an informative walk through the fields of flowers as well as being able to purchase flowers or arrangements to take home. Their flowers are either sold to local businesses or made up into arrangements to adorn wedding and restaurant tables locally.