A subtropical flowering shrub that looks a bit like it came from outer space, protea adds a pop of color when paired with its charming cousins.

A Protea Wreath Is the Perfect Way to Ring in 2022—And Not Just for Its Pop of Color
Thomas J. Story
Resendiz Brothers Protea Growers offers one-of-a-kind protea wreaths.

For a fresh take on your holiday entryway, look no further than a handmade protea wreath from Resendiz Brothers Protea Growers in San Diego County. Each one is picked to order and one of a kind.

So, what is protea anyway?

A subtropical flowering shrub that looks a bit like it came from outer space, protea (Protea cynaroides) was named by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus after Proteus, the Greek god who could change into a lion, serpent, leopard—even a tree. It makes sense: Resendiz Brothers Protea Growers, for one, grows more than 10 genera and 1,500 species, shapeshifters all.

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A few favorites are the aptly named, candy-floss-centered ‘Coastal Candy,’ the cherry-cola colored ‘Ceres,’ and the winter-blooming ‘Pristine.’ Because protea grow year-round, the farm is like an out-of-this-world super bloom.

Protea flowers on a rocky hillside
Resendiz Brothers Protea Growers in San Diego County grows from than 10 genera and 1,500 species of protea.

Thomas J. Story

The growers’ wreath arrangements often feature protea with its charming cousins, pincushion (Leucospermum), Grevillea (pincushion’s floppy friend), Banksia (best described as brilliantly sea-sponge-esque), and eucalyptus foliage.

Meanwhile, the approximately 300-million-year-old flowers—which only thrive in harsh conditions—represent resilience and strength. What better choice than a protea wreath to symbolically ring out 2021, and welcome 2022?

Wreaths start at $100 at resendizbrothers.com. Shipping is available, and styles may vary.