Sign In 
Get Premium Silver Tree
(Leucadendron argenteum)
Silver Tree (Leucadendron argenteum)
/
/
Abu Shawka
Public domain
Image By:
Abu Shawka
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Abu Shawka | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: MGA73bot2 | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Leucadendron_argenteum_-_Silvertree_-_foliage_6.JPG | Notes: |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Leucadendron argenteum, commonly known as Silver Tree, is an evergreen tree native to the fynbos region of the Western Cape in South Africa. It is a prominent and attractive species, typically growing to 5–7 meters tall, though it can reach up to 16 meters. The Silver Tree has a thick, straight trunk with smooth grey bark and a conical to rounded crown. Its leaves are notable for their silvery sheen, which is due to a dense covering of soft, white hairs. The wind-pollinated flowers are small and inconspicuous, produced in dense spherical inflorescences 4–5 cm in diameter, with a pleasant scent. The species is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants. The fruit is a heavy, woody cone that contains numerous seeds, each equipped with a silky-haired parachute for wind dispersal.
The Silver Tree is valued for its striking silver foliage and architectural form, making it a popular ornamental in gardens and landscapes where its climate needs can be met. It is used for its aesthetic appeal and as a focal point in gardens. The tree is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and requires full sun, low water once established, and well-drained soil. It is not tolerant of heavy frost and needs protection from cold winds. The Silver Tree can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also prone to Phytophthora, a fungal disease that can be fatal. Despite its susceptibility to disease and relatively short lifespan, the Silver Tree’s ability to regenerate after fire makes it a resilient species in its native habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Silver Tree is valued for its striking silver foliage and architectural form, making it a popular ornamental in gardens and landscapes where its climate needs can be met. It is used for its aesthetic appeal and as a focal point in gardens. The tree is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and requires full sun, low water once established, and well-drained soil. It is not tolerant of heavy frost and needs protection from cold winds. The Silver Tree can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is also prone to Phytophthora, a fungal disease that can be fatal. Despite its susceptibility to disease and relatively short lifespan, the Silver Tree’s ability to regenerate after fire makes it a resilient species in its native habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 25-40 feet
- Width: 15-20 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Fynbos region of the Western Cape in South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Cape Silvertree, Silver Leaf Tree, Silberbaum, Silverträd
Scientific Names: , Leucadendron argenteum, Protea argentea, Euryspermum argenteum,
GBIF Accepted Name: Leucadendron argenteum (L.) R.Br.