Silvertree
leucadendron salignum
Also known as: ["Silver Tree","Giant Conebush"]
Overview
A striking evergreen shrub native to South Africa, known for its silvery-white leaves and distinctive male and female flower structures.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Proteales |
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Genus: | Leucadendron |
| Botanical Name: | Leucadendron salignum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny, open position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or in late winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Morning sun is best; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: 5.5–6.5 (acidic).
Ensure fast drainage; maintain acidity; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but not prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop feeding in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from new growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, perlite, peat moss, plastic bag, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or bud; shape for airflow and light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy growth to encourage bushiness and new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if overly crowded; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; trim roots; ensure drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Leucadendron salignum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Leucadendron salignum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicLeucadendron salignum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Leucadendron salignum suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in temperate to subtropical climates.
Q: How often should I water Leucadendron salignum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Leucadendron salignum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Proteaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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