Leucospermum

Leucospermum are a captivating genus of evergreen shrubs native to the fynbos region of South Africa.

 

With over 50 different species, these plants have evolved to display an awesome variety of vibrant, pincushion-like flowers that range in colour from deep reds and oranges to bright yellows and soft pinks.

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These plants are particularly valued for their ability to thrive in poor soil conditions and their tolerance of dry climates. Their long-lasting flowers are perfect for garden displays and cut flower arrangements.

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Their floral structure is designed to attract and facilitate pollination by birds and insects. Their foliage with leathery, lance-shaped leaves add texture and interest to the garden year-round. These plants are evergreen, ensuring that they provide visual appeal even when not in bloom.

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Soil

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• Leucospermum thrive in well-drained, acidic soils with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. For guidance on determining your soil's pH, consult your local nursery or refer to our soil testing guide.

• Sandy loam or gravelly soils are ideal for leucospermum as they prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. If you're unsure about your soil type, refer to our soil guide for more information.

• Planting Leucospermum in untreated heavy clay soil will likely lead to quick failure, as the plants cannot tolerate such conditions. 

• To improve clay soil, add raised beds with sandy loam, and incorporate organic matter, compost, coarse sand, or grit to enhance drainage. Adding gypsum can also help break down clay particles and improve soil structure.

• Applying organic mulch, such as bark, wood chips, or leaves, around your Leucospermum helps retain moisture, reduce weeds, and maintain consistent soil temperature. As the mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients to the soil. Ensure the mulch is kept a few centimetres away from the stems to prevent rot and fungal infections.

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Sun

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• Leucospermum prefer a location with full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

• Full sun requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. This exposure is essential for leucospermum to develop vibrant colours and a strong structure. Full sun also promotes efficient photosynthesis, leading to healthier and more vigorous growth.

• A north-facing spot in your garden will receive the most sunlight throughout the day. You can use the compass app on your smartphone to find the best north-facing location.

 

Planting

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• When: The best times to plant leucospermum are in autumn or early spring. These seasons allow the plants to establish roots before the intense heat of summer or the cold of winter. If planting in summer, monitor your plant closely to ensure it doesn't dry out.

• Give it a drink: To minimise transplant shock, water your plant about 30 minutes before planting. Turn your hose on low and fill the pot with water until it reaches the rim. Allow the water to drain completely, then repeat this process two more times. This ensures the soil is thoroughly moistened and allows the roots to absorb water before planting.

• Dig the hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots ample space to spread and grow.

• Backfill: Use either the excavated soil or a quality native potting mix with low phosphorus content to fill around your plant. Gently firm the soil around the roots to remove air pockets.

• Water it thoroughly: After planting, give it another good drink to settle the soil around the roots. You can also use a seaweed solution such as Seasol or Charlie Carp to reduce plant stress and encourage root growth.

• Mulch: Spread a layer of mulch about 5-10 cm thick around the base of the plant, but keep it a few centimetres away from the stem to prevent rot and fungal issues. Regularly replenishing the mulch ensures continued benefits and supports the overall well-being of your plants.
   

Watering

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• Watering your Leucospermum properly is crucial for their growth. When you first plant them, water thoroughly to help establish strong roots. Once settled, usually after a few months, they become quite drought-tolerant and don’t need frequent watering.

• For the first few weeks, check the soil moisture regularly. If the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry, water the plant again.

• Gradually reduce the frequency of watering as the plant starts to establish its roots. After the first month, you can typically start watering less often.

• Keep an eye on the plant for signs of stress, such as wilting or drooping leaves, which may indicate it needs water.

• During hot, dry weather, you might need to water more frequently. In cooler or rainy periods, reduce watering.

• If you're keeping your plant in a pot for a while before planting, monitor it every day. These will need to be watered almost daily in the warmer months and at least once a week during cooler periods.

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Other important things to know

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• Avoid high-phosphorus fertilisers such as manure, blood and bone, as Leucospermum are sensitive to phosphorus. It's also crucial not to plant them in garden beds where these fertilisers have been previously applied.

• Do not use mushroom compost as it contains high salt levels, which can lead to nutrient imbalances and damage sensitive root systems.

• Most leucospermum species grow between one to three metres tall and spread about one to two metres wide. They typically take three to five years to reach full height under optimal conditions and can live for 10 to 15 years.

• Leucospermum generally bloom from late winter to early summer, with flowers lasting several weeks to months under optimal growing conditions.

• Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Remove spent flower heads and any dead or damaged branches.

• Leucospermum are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from root rot, leaf spot, and scale insects. Like all proteaceae species, they are susceptible to phytophthora, a soil-borne fungus that can be deadly. Ensuring good drainage and proper spacing can prevent these issues.

• Yellowing leaves may indicate poor drainage or root rot. Black spots suggest fungal infections, while sticky leaves can be a sign of scale insects. Regular inspection and prompt action can help maintain plant health.

• Leucospermum can be propagated by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. Seeds may require pre-treatment for better germination, such as scarification or soaking in smoke water to improve strike rates.

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