Rounded Cape fynbos shrub of South Africa with grey-green leathery leaves and brilliant orange-red pincushion-like flower heads with long protruding styles in spring. The most widely grown pincushion in cultivation.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 9–11 | −6.7 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H2 | 1 °C to 5 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 4–6 | 0 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Native to the Cape Floristic Region — Mediterranean climate, well-drained acidic sandy soils
- WARNING: Phosphorus sensitive — never use phosphate fertilisers, will kill the plant
- Among the most spectacular Proteaceae for warm-temperate gardens and a major cut-flower export crop
- Pollinated in the wild by sunbirds — flowers structured for bird perching
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Related plants
Cross-check Pincushion against your zones