How to Grow Leucospermum
Leucospermum cordifolium
Leucospermum is a South African fynbos shrub prized for its spectacular pincushion-shaped flower heads in orange, red, and yellow. Plant in full sun with excellent drainage in acidic, low-phosphorus soil. Never use phosphorus-rich fertilisers. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Prune immediately after flowering, cutting back to healthy foliage but never into old bare wood. In cold or humid climates, grow in containers with a free-draining mix of bark, grit, and acidic compost. Protect from frost below -5C and from wet, cold winds.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Avoid phosphorus-rich fertilisers which are toxic to Proteaceae. Use a low-phosphorus native plant feed in spring, or no feed at all in reasonably fertile soil.
Watch For
- Phytophthora root rot (in wet soil)
- Scale insects
- Leaf miners
Companions
Protea, Erica, Restio, Agapanthus
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun essential
Requires full sun for healthy growth and flowering. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Good air circulation is equally important.
Watering
Deep but infrequent, let soil dry
Water deeply every 10-14 days during active growth. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Avoid wetting the foliage. Reduce in winter.
Fertilizing
No phosphorus, minimal or none
Avoid phosphorus-rich fertilisers which are toxic to Proteaceae. Use a low-phosphorus native plant feed sparingly in spring, or no feed at all in reasonably fertile soil.
Pruning
Prune immediately after flowering
Cut flowered stems back to just above a set of healthy leaves immediately after blooming. This maintains compact shape and promotes next season's flowers. Never cut into old bare wood.
