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(Leucospermum conocarpodendron)
Grey Tree Pincushion (Leucospermum conocarpodendron)
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Paul Hoekman
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Paul Hoekman
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Paul Hoekman | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Paul Hoekman | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-11-28T15:35:03-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Leucospermum conocarpodendron, commonly known as Grey Tree Pincushion, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the fynbos region near Cape Town in South Africa, particularly thriving in mountainous areas and coastal plains. It is the largest species within the Leucospermum genus, reaching heights of 5–6 m (16–20 ft) with a sturdy trunk covered in a thick corky bark that provides resilience to wildfires. The leaves are greyish-green, narrow or broad, and inversely egg-shaped with three to ten small teeth near the tip. From late winter to spring, it produces large, striking yellow flower heads with firm, bent, yellow styles that protrude, resembling a pincushion. These flowers are not only showy but also attract a variety of pollinators.
The Grey Tree Pincushion is valued for its unique appearance and is often used in cultivation for ornamental purposes, including urban planting and as a focal point in large gardens. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for water-wise landscapes. While it prefers north and west exposures, it adapts well to full sun or part shade and requires well-drained soils. It is not commonly affected by diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Grey Tree Pincushion is valued for its unique appearance and is often used in cultivation for ornamental purposes, including urban planting and as a focal point in large gardens. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for water-wise landscapes. While it prefers north and west exposures, it adapts well to full sun or part shade and requires well-drained soils. It is not commonly affected by diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 10-15 feet
- Width: 10-20 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Orange
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the fynbos region, including mountainous areas and coastal plains near Cape Town, South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Tree Pincushion , Goudsboom
Scientific Names: Leucospermum conocarpodendron , Leucospermum macowanii
GBIF Accepted Name: Leucospermum conocarpodendron (L.) H.Buek