Leucospermum cordifolium Yellow Bird (Nodding Pincushion)

Leucospermum cordifolium ‘Yellow Bird’ (Nodding Pincushion) is an attractive, rounded, spreading, evergreen shrub with distinctively dome-shaped yellow flower heads. Resembling pincushions, they are produced profusely over spring and early midsummer atop long stems.

Leucospermum cordifolium 'Yellow Bird' (Nodding Pincushion) is an attractive, rounded, spreading, evergreen shrub with distinctively dome-shaped yellow flower heads. Resembling pincushions, they are produced profusely over spring and early midsummer atop long stems. Borne at the tips of horizontal or arching stems, they are rich in nectar and attract birds and bees, thus assisting in the pollination of the flowers. The gray-green leaves are stalkless, leathery, and spirally arranged. Perfect as a focal point in the landscape or in decorative containers. The flowers are long-lasting and great for cutting. They make a unique, exotic addition to flower arrangements. This leucospermum selection is considered to be disease resistant.

  • Grows up to 4-5 ft. tall (120-150 cm) and 6-8 ft. wide (180-240 cm).
  • Easily grown in acidic, well-drained soils in full sun. Water sparingly in winter, but do not allow it to dry out. Use little to no Phosphorus fertilizer. Drought tolerant once established.
  • Great for Mediterranean gardens and xeriscaping. Excellent as cut flowers. Tolerates coastal conditions such as high winds, sandy soils, and salt-laden air.
  • No routine pruning necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
  • Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings.

Requirements

Hardiness 9
– 11

Heat Zones 10
– 12

Climate Zones 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Leucospermum – Pincushions
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 4'
– 5'
(120cm
– 150cm)
Spread 6'
– 8'
(180cm
– 240cm)
Spacing 84″
– 96″
(210cm
– 240cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Drought, Salt
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Mediterranean Garden