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.

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

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