Leucadendron

Most people think leucadendrons are native Australian plants. Despite their similarity to some Australian natives, such as coneflowers (Isopogon), leucadendrons are closely related to proteas and are native to South Africa. All are classified in the large plant family Proteaceae and are evergreen.

Leucadendrons are grown as low-maintenance shrubs once they are established. They feature distinctive, brightly coloured, woody flower heads that are commonly used in the cut flower industry. These blooms are particularly valuable because they can last a long time in a vase display if their water is changed regularly.

Plants range from compact shrubs around 1m high to large sprawling shrubs that can be 3m high and wide. Some can be small trees.

There are many species and named varieties of leucadendrons, which are grown for their flower-like colourful bracts in cream, yellow, reds and sunset tones that surround the small flowers. Check out your local hardware or garden centre for varieties to suit your location. Here are a few to consider:

• Leucadendron argenteum, known as silverbush, is recognised by its striking silver foliage and bright red or yellow flowers. Growing to a height of around 7 to 10 metres, it’s a great pollinator, tracking insects and bees with its colourful flowers. It prefers a well-drained sunny position.
• Leucadendron salignum has given rise to many named and colourful varieties and hybrids, including:
  • ‘Gypsy Red’ is a medium-sized shrub to 2 metres with its dark red striking foliage in autumn and winter. Mass plant as a hedge or screening, or use as a feature tree in a low-maintenance garden.
  • ‘Devils Blush’ will add a vibrant red colour to your garden or pots in late winter to spring. This compact shrub grows to about 1 meter and is ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant suitable for gardens and pots.
  • ‘Gold Strike’ loves sunshine and well-drained soil. This lovely leucadendron will make excellent long-lasting cut flowers with its glowing golden lime branches through the darker months of winter.
  • ‘Safari Sunset’ creates a stunning display with its year-round colour from vibrant foliage that transitions from green to red, orange and yellow. Growing to a height of around 2m, it’s ideal for gardens and pots.
  • ‘Inca Gold’ is a beautiful leucadendron to attract nectar-feeding birds when in flower. Preferring a full sun position, it’s a spectacular evergreen shrub that produces golden yellow bracts throughout winter and spring.

Growing conditions

Aspect Leucadendrons require a bright, sunny location with full sun for most of the day. Some varieties can tolerate morning sun or part shade. Check plant tags as a guide.

Soil For optimal growth, Leucadendrons thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of about 5.5. If you are planting in pots or containers, choose a native mix that is suitable for Australian native plants. These plants do not tolerate excess moisture, so it’s important to ensure proper drainage before planting. To help prevent transplant shock and support establishment, water plants in with Seasol to prevent transplant shock and aid establishment.

Climate Leucadendrons grow best in temperate climates with good air circulation. Plants can tolerate light frost and coastal conditions.

General care

Watering

Water plants regularly to encourage healthy growth and flowering, especially during periods of high heat and while establishing. Without sufficient moisture, flowers may turn brown or cease production. Regularly water plants with Seasol to boost plant health.

Feeding and mulching Leucadendrons respond well to feeding with a good quality fertiliser such as Seasol plus Nutrients All Purpose including Natives, and liquid PowerFeed Plant Food All Purpose including Natives.  

Mulch plants with a coarse wood chip mulch, especially recycled bark, eucalyptus mulch and pine bark mulch, as it promotes microorganism activity in the soil, keeps the roots cool and retains soil moisture. Do not allow the mulch to build up around the truck.

Pruning To encourage a compact shape in plants, selectively picking flower stems can be beneficial. Alternatively, prune the plants after they have finished flowering in late spring to promote robust new growth. If left unpruned, plants may become leggy and unattractive. For large, woody bushes, consider cutting them back over an 18-month period by removing about one-third of the plant every six months. Avoid cutting into old wood, as plants cannot produce new growth from it.

Watch out Leucadendrons suffer few pest or disease problems if well grown in free-draining soil. Poor drainage can lead to root diseases such as Phytophthora. Humid conditions may lead to leaf-spotting fungal diseases on leaves.