The name of Proteas was inspired by Greek mythology. The name was given by the father of taxonomy and botanist, Swedish-born Carl Linnaeus. It was named after Proteus, son of Poseidon and shape-shifter, highlighting the variety of plants found within the large Proteaceae family.
Although generally thought of as a tropical plant, orchids grow on every continent. From the Arctic Circle to the southernmost jungle (except Antarctica). They’re valued and thought of as beautiful across continents and cultures.