Leucospermum cuneiforme (Wart-Stemmed Pincushion)
Leucospermum cuneiforme (Wart-Stemmed Pincushion) is a dense, bushy evergreen shrub with large, brilliant, golden-yellow flower heads, which age to a soft orange. Resembling pincushions, they are produced profusely from late winter through spring to midsummer. Borne at the tips of the stems, they are rich in nectar and attract birds and bees, thus assisting in the pollination of the flowers. The stem and lower branches are covered in pustules, a unique feature of this species. The foliage of leathery, hairless, narrow to broadly wedge-shaped leaves, up to 4 in. long (11 cm), with 3-10 apical teeth. Leucospermum cuneiforme is a widespread species throughout the southern Cape. It is a decorative and adaptable garden shrub and an excellent cut flower.
- Grows up to 4-6 ft. tall and wide (120-180 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.
- 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 seed or semi-ripe cuttings.
- Native to South Africa
Requirements
Hardiness | 9 – 11 |
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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)Winter |
Height | 4' – 6' (120cm – 180cm) |
Spread | 4' – 6' (120cm – 180cm) |
Spacing | 60″ – 72″ (150cm – 180cm) |
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 |