Jester Conebush

Wed, 08/05/2009 - 2:18pm — Kathy Ormiston
leucdendron.jpg
Photo Credit: 
Vera Kark, PADG
Botanical Name: 
Leucadendron 'Jester'
Pronunciation: 
(lew-kuh-DEN-dron)
Common Name: 
Jester Conebush
Plant Type: 
Shrub
Mature Size: 
4 ft. to 6 ft. tall and wide
Water Requirements: 
Low: water every 3 weeks until the root ball is wet
Sun/Shade Requirements: 
Full sun
Flower Color : 
Rose, red or yellow

Leucadendrons are evergreen shrubs from South Africa and are related to Proteas. Some Leucadendrons have interesting cone-like heads with colorful bracts that may be used in flower arrangement; others are grown primarily for their foliage.

We grow our Leucadendrons on a one foot mound to encourage good drainage. Their color and size add a bit of drama to our beds, especially during periods where other plants are dormant.

We have several different cultivars of Leucadendrons in the garden, including this one, appropriately named 'Jester'. 'Jester' is also known as 'Safari Sunshine'.