Leucadendron Rubrum

Description

Leucadendron Rubrum, also known as the Red Leucadendron or the Red Fountain Bush, is a stunning plant with unique features. It is native to South Africa and belongs to the Proteaceae family. This plant is well-known for its striking, rich red bracts that surround its small flowers, which bloom in late winter or early spring. The leaves of Leucadendron Rubrum are long and narrow, and they are covered in a fine, silvery fuzz that gives them a soft texture.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Leucadendron Rubrum is a beautiful plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide. It has a dense, bushy habit and produces many branches. The most striking feature of this plant is its bright red bracts, which are actually modified leaves that surround the small flowers. The flowers themselves are insignificant and are usually hidden in the center of the bracts. The leaves of Leucadendron Rubrum are long, narrow, and pointed. They are covered in a fine, silvery fuzz that gives them a soft texture and a gray-green color. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems and they have a slightly twisted appearance.

Care Guide

Leucadendron Rubrum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements:

• Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water it regularly but make sure the soil is not too wet.
• Fertilization: Leucadendron Rubrum does not need a lot of fertilizer, but it can be beneficial to feed it once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
• Soil: This plant prefers slightly acidic soil that is well-draining. It does not like heavy clay soils.
• Sunlight: Leucadendron Rubrum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Leucadendron Rubrum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil. Other potential problems include spider mites, thrips, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other organic insecticides.

Habitat

Leucadendron Rubrum is native to the western and southern Cape of South Africa, where it grows in sandy soils on rocky slopes and ridges. It is a fire-adapted species and can resprout from the base after a fire.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Leucadendron Rubrum be grown in containers?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.

Q: How often should I water Leucadendron Rubrum?

A: Water this plant regularly but make sure the soil is not too wet. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Leucadendron Rubrum need a lot of fertilizer?

A: No, this plant does not need a lot of fertilizer. Feed it once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.

Q: How often does Leucadendron Rubrum bloom?

A: This plant blooms in late winter or early spring.

Related Plants

• Leucadendron Safari Sunset
• Leucadendron Silver
• Leucadendron Winter Red
• Leucadendron Jester
• Leucadendron Galpinii

References

• “Leucadendron Rubrum.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.
• “Leucadendron Rubrum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.
• “Leucadendron Rubrum.” San Marcos Growers. San Marcos Growers, n.d. Web. 21 July 2021.