Sign In 
Get Premium Galpin’s Conebush
(Leucadendron galpinii)
Galpin’s Conebush (Leucadendron galpinii)
/
/
Nicola van Berkel
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Nicola van Berkel
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Nicola van Berkel | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Nicola van Berkel | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2018-08-03T10:16:18-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements
| • Precipitation | 18" - 21" |
| • High Temp. | 77°F - 83°F |
| • Low Temp. | 44°F - 48°F |
Summary
Leucadendron galpinii, commonly known as Galpin’s Conebush, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos region, which includes plains and mountain slopes in southwestern South Africa. This species typically reaches a height of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) and a width of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters). It has a rounded to spreading form with spirally arranged, bluish-green leaves that add texture to the garden. The flowers, which are actually cone-like inflorescences, consist of creamy yellow bracts with a purplish tinge and appear in the spring. They are subtle but add an interesting visual element to the plant.
Galpin’s Conebush is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a striking choice for water-wise gardens, Mediterranean landscapes, and as a focal point in mixed shrub borders. It is also used for cut foliage in floral arrangements. In cultivation, it requires full sun to maintain its compact shape and colorful bracts. It prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soils and is tolerant of coastal conditions. While it needs medium water, once established, it is quite drought-resistant. Gardeners should be aware that this plant can be sensitive to phosphorus, so fertilizers for native plants or those with low phosphorus content are recommended.CC BY-SA 4.0
Galpin’s Conebush is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a striking choice for water-wise gardens, Mediterranean landscapes, and as a focal point in mixed shrub borders. It is also used for cut foliage in floral arrangements. In cultivation, it requires full sun to maintain its compact shape and colorful bracts. It prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soils and is tolerant of coastal conditions. While it needs medium water, once established, it is quite drought-resistant. Gardeners should be aware that this plant can be sensitive to phosphorus, so fertilizers for native plants or those with low phosphorus content are recommended.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 6-8 feet
- Width: 3-4 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: White, Pink
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Fynbos region, including plains and mountain slopes in southwestern South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Galpin’s Leucadendron, Hairless Conebush, Silver Balls
Scientific Names: Leucadendron galpinii
GBIF Accepted Name: Leucadendron galpinii Phillips & Hutch.