Whether you’re looking to add a filler to your autumn gardenscape with striking shrubs, or want to take your water-wise gardening efforts to the next level, you cannot go wrong with the icon pincushion or cone bush.

These plants are so easily recognisable in the Cape floral kingdom and are worthy of a spot in your indigenous planting list. Read on to find out why, and how to care for them.

What are pincushions and cone bushes?

You may not know them by name, but if you’ve grown up or spent a lot of time in the Western Cape, you’ll easily recognise these indigenous shrubs. 

Pincushions (Leucospermum) and cone bushes (Isotropis or Leucadendron) are typical fynbos plants, native to the Cape Floristic Region and celebrated for their striking, long-lasting blooms. 

Being a proudly South African garden centre, we particularly love them for their hardy, water-wise nature, with the added bonus that they are irresistible to sunbirds and bees. Browse these other plants for more inspiration for gardening for bees.

It’s no wonder that these local gems thrive in our unique climate – making them a rewarding choice for any indigenous garden.

Why these indigenous plants thrive in South African gardens

Pincushions and cone bushes have evolved over thousands of years in the Cape’s unique fynbos biome, making them perfectly adapted to South African growing conditions. 

They thrive in the Cape’s long, dry summers and cool, wet winters – a climate that many exotic plants struggle to handle. 

Their roots are specially adapted to nutrient-poor, well-draining soils, meaning they need little fertilisation to flourish. 

They are also naturally fire-adapted and impressively drought-tolerant once established. Because they evolved alongside our local wildlife, they are also perfectly in tune with indigenous pollinators, making them an ecologically harmonious choice for any South African garden.

The best time to plant pincushions and cone bushes

The best time to plant pincushions and cone bushes is in autumn, from March to May. 

As the heat of summer fades and the winter rains approach, young plants have the chance to establish their root systems without the stress of scorching temperatures or drought. 

Spring planting is possible but will require more attentive watering until the plant is settled.

Ever wondered what the difference is between drought-tolerant and indigenous plants? We’ve done a comparison for you here.

Where to plant them (sun, soil & drainage requirements)

Light

Pincushions and cone bushes thrive in a sunny, open spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. 

Soil

Good drainage is important, as waterlogged soil is one of the fastest ways to lose these plants. 

Raised beds or slopes work particularly well, especially in areas with heavy clay soil. Avoid planting near lawn areas that receive regular feeding, as the nitrogen-rich fertiliser can damage their sensitive roots. 

They also do best away from alkaline soils. If you live in a limestone-rich area, amend your soil or plant your pincushions or cone bushes in containers.

Here’s a guide to improving your garden soil for the best results with your plants.

Watering and feeding guide

While these shrubs make for excellent drought-tolerant additions to your garden, give them a good start with the following watering and feeding guide:

Watering

• Water newly planted pincushions and cone bushes 2-3 times a week for the first season until established.

• Once established, reduce to watering every 2-3 weeks in summer.

• Water deeply and infrequently rather than little and often, encouraging roots to grow deeper.

Feeding

• These plants are adapted to nutrient-poor soils, so less is more when it comes to feeding.

• A light mulch of organic material such as wood chips around the base can help retain moisture and gradually enrich the soil naturally.

Why indigenous gardens are the future of sustainable gardening

Indigenous gardens are resilient gardens – which makes them key to sustainable gardening in South Africa. 

Pincushions and cone bushes need less water, less fertiliser and less intervention, lowering both the cost and the environmental footprint of maintaining a garden. 

Plus, a big bonus for nature lovers: Indigenous gardens actively support biodiversity, providing food and habitat for sunbirds, bees, butterflies and other pollinators that exotic plants cannot sustain.

Need to know more about pincushions and cone bushes? Visit your local Stodels Garden Centre, browse our wide range of pincushions and cone bushes and get expert advice.