Rocket pincushion

Leucospermum reflexum

Tall narrow Cape fynbos shrub with silvery foliage and pendant rocket-shaped pincushion flowers, the long styles curving backwards as if launched. Striking architectural form for warm-temperate borders.

Hardiness ratings

Rocket pincushion hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow 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 Cederberg mountains of the Western Cape — winter-rainfall Mediterranean climate
  • WARNING: Phosphorus sensitive — use low-P or native fertiliser only
  • Distinct from L. cordifolium — rocket pincushion has the recurved style structure that gives the rocket-launch appearance
  • Excellent cut flower with long vase life

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Rocket pincushion against your zones

Reference

Rocket pincushion on Wikipedia