Scientific name: Protea cynaroides Status:   South African National flower Species:  330 different species   The King Protea is South Africa's national flower and is probably the best known protea in the world. Proteas grow mainly in the southern hemisphere   The flower of the King Protea can measure up to 12 inches in diameter. On the outside it has many hard, pointed petals that give the protea its cup-like appearance. The bottom half of the petals start with a yellowish colour that slowly fades into a deep red towards the top.