Common Sunshine Conebush Red – 10 Seeds

Common Sunshine Conebush Red (Leucadendron salignum) is an evergreen, dioecious shrub that produces several stems from the ground of up to 2m in height. It is possibly the most common Proteaceae species in South Africa, and can be found in the Northern Cape, Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.

The leaves are thin and rigid with an oblong linear or lance-shaped linear shape. It has a persistent root-stock, which enables it to re-sprout after fire. Pollinated by beetles, it from spring to summer. The winged seeds remain in the woody cones until they are released after a fire, and are distributed by the wind.

Growing Common Sunshine Conebush Red

• Sow seed in late summer to autumn.
• Seed can be sown in a seed tray placed in a sunny position. Seed can also be sown directly where you want the plants to grow.
• Sow on a well-drained medium, firm down and cover with a layer of sand or finely milled bark.
• Germination begins after two to three weeks.
• Once two true leaves have grown, prick the seedlings out into small bags.
• Place the seedlings in a lightly shaded area with good air circulation.
• When plants are ± 50-100 mm tall, or after one year’s growth, they can be planted into the garden.
• The plant requires a hot, sunny position with well-drained acidic soil.