Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine

Description

Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine, also known as Pincushion Protea or Pinwheel, is a stunning evergreen shrub that belongs to the Proteaceae family. It is a native of South Africa and is widely cultivated for its beautiful flowers. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making it perfect for garden borders, hedges, or as an accent plant. The flowers are large, bright yellow, and have long red stamens that resemble pins, hence the name “Pincushion Protea.” The plant blooms in late winter or early spring and can continue to flower sporadically throughout the year.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Proteales
Family	Proteaceae
Genus	Leucospermum

Appearance

Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine has large, leathery, dark green leaves that are about 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers are the main attraction of the plant and can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. They are bright yellow in color and have long, red, pin-like protrusions that give them a unique appearance. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The bark of the plant is rough and grayish-brown in color.

Care Guide

Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine requires well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is important to water the plant consistently, but not excessively, as it is sensitive to both drought and overwatering. Fertilize the plant with a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a year in the spring. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F.

Common Pests & Diseases

Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained or if it is overwatered. Spider mites and thrips can also be a problem, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine is native to the Western Cape region of South Africa. It grows in sandy, well-draining soil in the fynbos biome, which is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine?

A: Water the plant consistently, but not excessively. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine?

A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.

Q: Can Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine tolerate shade?

A: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Q: What hardiness zones can Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine tolerate?

A: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F.

Related Plants

• Leucospermum ‘Scarlet Ribbon’
• Leucospermum ‘Safari Sunset’
• Leucospermum ‘Veldfire’
• Leucospermum ‘Yellow Bird’

References

• “Leucospermum Cordifolium.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, pza.sanbi.org/leucospermum-cordifolium/. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.
• “Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l300. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.
• “Leucospermum Cordifolium California Sunshine.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/leucospermum-cordifolium-california-sunshine-pincushion-protea/. Accessed 10 Mar. 2021.