The protea flower needs fire to flourish. Proteas,
which are a type of fynbos, are referred to as a pyrophylic or
fire-loving vegetation, and in need to burn every few years to survive.
The king protea flower is large when opened and can grow to about 12
inches in diameter. Flower petals are stiff and tapered and are often
light-colored on the bottom and then become pink or red nearer to the
top.