Cushion Bush
leucophyta brownii
Also known as: ["Cushion Bush","Silver Bush"]
Overview
A compact, evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its spherical shape and silvery-gray foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leucophyta |
| Botanical Name: | Leucophyta brownii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal garden, or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun preferred; rotate regularly for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Tolerates a wide range (50–90°F); prefers mild temperatures; frost-sensitive.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering for heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a propagator; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove up to one-third of growth
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot)
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if compacted; ensure pot has drainage holes
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may become root-bound and benefit from tight conditions.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of root rot from cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched foliage in excessive heat; may go dormant.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucophyta brownii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no known health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucophyta brownii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no known health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLeucophyta brownii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Leucophyta brownii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Leucophyta brownii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Leucophyta brownii toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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