Contents
Description
Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire is an evergreen shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Proteaceae and is commonly known as Pincushion. It reaches a height of 6-8 feet and a width of 3-4 feet. The leaves are leathery and glossy, with a heart shape, and grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers bloom in spring and are bright red or orange with long, slim petals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Proteaceae |
| Genus | Leucospermum |
Appearance
Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire is a dense, bushy shrub with an upright growth habit. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a heart shape, and grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are arranged in spherical clusters and are bright red or orange with long, thin petals. They are very showy and attractive to bees and other pollinators. The fruit is a woody capsule that splits open to release the seeds.
Care Guide
Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It prefers a moderate amount of water and should be fertilized with a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate some frost, but may require protection in colder areas. Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain a neat shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire is relatively pest and disease resistant, but may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. It may also be attacked by scale insects or spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire is native to the fynbos vegetation of South Africa, where it grows in well-drained soils on hillsides and slopes. It is adapted to a Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer resistant.
Q: Does Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire attract bees?
A: Yes, it is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: When is the best time to prune Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire?
A: Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain a neat shape.
Related Plants
- Leucospermum Goldie
- Leucospermum Yellow Bird
- Leucospermum High Gold
References
- “Leucospermum Cordifolium.” PlantZAfrica, National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/leucospcord.htm.
- “Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire.” San Marcos Growers, 2021, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3205.
- “Leucospermum Cordifolium Veldfire.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277944.
