Plants in the Protea family are admired as cut flowers, notable for the unusual architecture of their large blossoms. But they are less often seen planted in gardens. Mostly native to South Africa and ...

Most people are familiar with proteas, the shrubs with exotic blossoms that are often the focal point of a bouquet. Proteas are only one member of a family of beautiful, drought-tolerant plants.

Walnut Creek’s Ruth Bancroft is a national authority on drought-resistant gardening. Twice a month, she and her staff share their knowledge with readers. Plants in the Protea family are admired as cut ...