11 Inspiring Protea Flower Arrangements for Weddings

From dramatic bouquets to reception centerpieces, discover ways to use this unique bloom.

Since each type of protea is vastly different in terms of the size, look, and color, the blooms are fitting for a variety of color palettes and wedding styles – from bohemian chic and rustic to modern and contemporary.

bride-holding-large-bouquet-with-ivory-king-protea-flower-tropical-greenery-illusion-wedding-dress
Photo: Lauren Gabrielle Photography

Though they're one of the oldest families of flowering plants, proteas have just recently become popular in wedding bouquets and centerpieces. Native to South Africa – and named the national flower of the country, the bloom represents change and hope, making it fitting for nuptials to symbolize the change that occurs as the couple becomes a new family. 

From the large, sturdy star-shaped king protea, to the stringy pincushion protea, to the whimsical, soft blushing bride protea, the blooms are perfect for brides who desire a unique bouquet or couples who want to have floral arrangements their guests may have never seen before. Proteas can be grouped into centerpieces or ceremony arches, be featured as a focal point at a ceremony entrance, or be a welcome addition to a lush bridal bouquet or a single-flower bouquet for a bride or bridesmaid. 

Since each type of protea is vastly different in terms of the size, look, and color, the blooms are fitting for a variety of color palettes and wedding styles – from bohemian chic and rustic to modern and contemporary. Proteas come in soft shades such as white and blush, as well as bright hues including yellow and red. Though they're native to South Africa and Australia, the Northern Hemisphere has caught on and now grows them primarily in California and Hawaii, making them accessible for your big day. 

Take a look at inspiring images featuring beautiful protea flowers from real weddings and styled shoots, below:

Large Protea Bouquet

Photo by Kir2ben Photography

Unique Bridal Bouquet with Ribbon

Photo by Kiss Me in Paris

Desert Bouquet

Photo by Koman Photography

Colorful, Cascading Boho Bouquet

Photo by Lucas Rossi Photography

Pink Peony, Orchid & Protea Bouquet

Photo by Jay Lawrence Goldman Photography; Floral Design by The Hidden Garden; Planning & Design by Geller Events

Lush Ivory Bouquet with Roses

Photo by Michael Carr Photography; Planning & Design by Ann Whittington Events

Bridesmaids in Two-Piece Ensembles

Photo by Jonathan Connolly Photography

Protea Blossom Boutonniere

Photo by EDLT Photo

Bride & Groom at Outdoor Seattle Wedding

Photo by Sam & Sola Lee Photography; Planning & Design by Callista and Company

Botanicals in Glass Vessels

Photo by Braedon Photography

Entrance to Colorful, Tropical Ceremony

Photo by 
Jay Lawrence Goldman Photography; Floral Design by The Hidden Garden; Planning & Design by Geller Events

Colorful Ceremony Blooms with Nature

Photo by Lilly Red Creative

Garden Centerpiece & Italian Table Number

Photo by EDLT Photo

Tropical Fern & Protea Centerpiece

Photo by Lauren Gabrielle Photography; Floral Design by HeatherLily; Planning & Design by A Charming Fête

Rustic and Colorful Floral Centerpiece

Photo by Lucas Rossi Photography

Tropical Themed Table Setting

Photo by Laura Ashbrook Photography; Planning & Design by Evoke Design & Creative

Protea & Anthurium Centerpiece

Photo by Melissa Kilner Photography

Outdoor Fall Wedding Reception Décor

Photo by Samuel Lippke Studios; Floral Design by The Hidden Garden; Planning & Design by Geller Events; Rentals by Revelry Event Designers