Contents
Description
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Proteaceae family. Its scientific name is Leucadendron salignum x laureolum ‘Safari Sunset.’ This plant is known for its stunning foliage, which changes color throughout the year. The new growth is a bright orange-red color that fades to yellow-green as it matures. In the fall, the tips of the leaves turn a deep red, creating a beautiful contrast against the yellow-green foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Leucadendron |
Appearance
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring around 4 inches in length. The flowers are small and insignificant, but they are surrounded by colorful bracts that are orange-red in color. The bracts provide an attractive display, which lasts for several months.
Care Guide
Water
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset prefers well-draining soil and regular watering. It is important not to overwater this plant, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
This plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in phosphorus, as this can be harmful to the plant.
Soil
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important to avoid planting it in heavy clay soils.
Sunlight
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is also important to keep an eye out for spider mites, which can cause yellowing of the leaves.
Habitat
Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset is native to South Africa. It grows in a variety of habitats, including fynbos, savanna, and forest margins.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers. It is important to use a well-draining soil mix and provide regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Does this plant require pruning?
A: Leucadendron Salignum Safari Sunset does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can this plant tolerate frost?
A: This plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should this plant be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Leucadendron Safari Sunshine
- Leucadendron Safari Goldstrike
- Leucadendron discolor
- Leucadendron argenteum
References
- “Leucadendron salignum x laureolum ‘Safari Sunset’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277529&isprofile=0&basic=leucadendron%20safari%20sunset.
- “Leucadendron salignum ‘Safari Sunset’.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 5, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/leucadendron-salignum-safari-sunset.
- “Leucadendron salignum x laureolum ‘Safari Sunset’.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/194121/.
