Protea

Another gem in the garden here in Ballarat.  This protea bush has several blooms at various stages of emergence.  I just love the soft woolly structure of the centre of this amazing flower. It is a South African flowering plant, but is cultivated in over 20 countries with Mediterranean and sub tropical climates. 
I have added a younger bloom still folded in on itself in extras. It's hard to resist getting the camera out when I am surrounded by all these new prompts.