We’re starting to see early signs of fall here on the farm. We've dusted off all the wreath making equipment and ordered plenty of extra supplies. Designing and creating a gorgeous Protea wreath is one of our favorite crafts, it's like painting but with a palette of flowers, and it definitely puts you in an autumn mode! With a ten beautiful Protea, Grevillea Ivanhoe, Leucadendron Safari Sunset, Galpinii and Inca Gold as well as seeded Eucalyptus, we anxiously observe as another unique masterpiece is created.
The wreath... a symbol of welcome, eternity and a joyful spirit! When protea find their way into a wreath, they no doubt fulfill the promise of eternity, as they don't die, they dry beautifully and become timeless!
Referred to as Silver Tree because its soft, elliptical leaves (which remain on the trees for years giving it evergreen status) are covered with hairs that look amazingly like silver in the sunlight and they shimmer in the wind. These trees can reach up to forty feet in height.
You don't know whether it is a male or a female until the day it flowers and shows off with large, pure silver egg-like cones (female) or yellow pollen surrounding small silver buds (male). The Silver Tree relies on wind for dispersing its seeds instead of having to attract birds or other dispersers. Each fruit looks like a small nut and is equipped with a "parachute". Once the seed is freed by strong winds, it can travel a considerable distance thanks to its design.
Silver Tree branches are stunning when used in arrangements and its individual leaves are ideal in corsages and boutonnieres.
