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(Leucadendron salignum)
Common Sunshine Conebush (Leucadendron salignum)
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The Fun Chronicles
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The Fun Chronicles
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CC0 1.0
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Photo by: The Fun Chronicles | License Type: CC0 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ | Uploader: The Fun Chronicles | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements
| • Precipitation | 20" - 24" |
| • High Temp. | 75°F - 84°F |
| • Low Temp. | 39°F - 48°F |
Summary
Leucadendron salignum, commonly known as Common Sunshine Conebush, is an evergreen shrub native to the fynbos region of South Africa, where it thrives in heathlands and on mountain slopes. This species is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers. It typically grows up to 2 meters (6 ft 7 in) high and features stiff, upright branches covered with soft, silky hairs. The leaves vary in size, and the bracts can be different colors, often adding ornamental value. Male flower heads are cone- or egg-shaped and may be yellow or burgundy red, while the young female flower heads are oblong to cylinder-shaped, approximately 1+1⁄4 cm (0.49 in) long, with involucral leaves that are often ivory and may conceal the head. Inflorescences can be either yellow or red, and they bloom in the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer months.
The Common Sunshine Conebush is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and its frost tolerance down to −9 °C (16 °F). It is known for its vigorous regrowth after deep pruning, making it a popular choice for cut foliage production. In gardens, it is often used for its striking foliage and bracts, which provide year-round interest. This shrub is best suited for full sun locations with low water requirements and well-draining soils. It is commonly used in xeriscaping, as a border plant, or as an accent in drought-tolerant gardens. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Common Sunshine Conebush is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and its frost tolerance down to −9 °C (16 °F). It is known for its vigorous regrowth after deep pruning, making it a popular choice for cut foliage production. In gardens, it is often used for its striking foliage and bracts, which provide year-round interest. This shrub is best suited for full sun locations with low water requirements and well-draining soils. It is commonly used in xeriscaping, as a border plant, or as an accent in drought-tolerant gardens. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-4 feet
- Width: 4-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Red, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Fynbos region of South Africa, heathlands, and mountain slopes
Other Names
Common Names: Geelbos
Scientific Names: Leucadendron salignum, Leucadendron adscendens, Protea conifera, Leucadendron virgatum, Protea pallens, Protea diversifolia, Protea inflexa, Protea saligna, Euryspermum frondosum
GBIF Accepted Name: Leucadendron salignum P.J.Bergius