Leucadendron ‘Cheeky’ (Conebush)

Leucadendron ‘Cheeky’ is a compact evergreen shrub valued for its colourful foliage and strong architectural form. It is widely used in native-inspired and low-maintenance gardens where year-round colour and texture are desired.

The plant produces narrow foliage in green to burgundy tones, with the colour intensifying during cooler months and around flowering. Bracts surrounding the flower heads develop rich red, pink, and cream highlights, creating a striking display.

Key Features

‘Cheeky’ is known for its vibrant foliage colour and compact growth habit.

It provides year-round visual interest, particularly during seasonal colour changes.

Its upright structure and fine foliage suit contemporary and coastal landscapes.

Growth Habit and Size

This variety grows as a compact, upright shrub.

It typically reaches 1 to 1.5 metres in height, with a spread of approximately 1 to 1.2 metres. Growth rate is moderate.

Care Requirements

Light

Requires full sun for best colour and growth.

Watering

Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is drought tolerant.

Avoid overwatering and heavy soils.

Soil

Prefers very well-draining soil and performs best in sandy or low-phosphorus soils.

Temperature and Climate

Suitable for temperate to coastal climates. Tolerates heat, wind, and light frost.

Maintenance

Low maintenance. Light pruning after flowering encourages bushier growth and maintains shape.

Avoid heavy fertilising, especially high-phosphorus products.

Use low-phosphorus native fertiliser if needed.

Common Issues

Poor drainage may lead to root problems.

Sensitive to excessive phosphorus.

Reduced colour may occur in shaded conditions.

Applications

Leucadendron ‘Cheeky’ is suitable for:

Feature planting
Native and coastal gardens
Borders and mass planting
Cut flower production
Low-maintenance landscapes
Contemporary gardens

Its colourful foliage makes it highly decorative year-round.

Specification and Care Chart

Attribute	Details
Botanical Name	Leucadendron hybrid ‘Cheeky’
Common Name	Cheeky Leucadendron
Plant Type	Evergreen shrub
Mature Height	1 m to 1.5 m
Growth Habit	Upright, compact
Growth Rate	Moderate
Light Conditions	Full sun
Direct Sunlight	Required
Watering Frequency	Low once established
Soil Type	Very well-draining, sandy
Drainage Requirement	Essential
Temperature Range	Temperate to coastal
Frost Tolerance	Light frost
Drought Tolerance	High
Maintenance Level	Low
Fertiliser	Low-phosphorus native fertiliser
Toxicity	Not commonly regarded as toxic