Leucadendron ‘Super Star’ (Conebush)
Leucadendron ‘Super Star’ is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant, colour-shifting bracts and strong architectural form. A cultivar of Leucadendron salignum, it originates from South Africa and is widely used in Australian landscapes for its durability and striking seasonal colour.
The plant produces slender green foliage that transforms dramatically as temperatures cool, developing tones of cream, pink, and soft yellow. These colourful bracts surround a central cone, creating a bold display that intensifies through autumn, winter, and early spring. (The Plant Broker)
Key Features
Leucadendron ‘Super Star’ is valued for its standout colour and low-maintenance nature. The bracts become more vivid in cooler weather, providing strong seasonal interest when many plants are less active. (The Plant Broker)
It is highly drought and frost tolerant once established, making it suitable for a wide range of conditions, including coastal and exposed sites. (Australian Plants Online)
Its long stems and vibrant colour also make it an excellent cut flower, commonly used in floral arrangements.
Growth Habit and Size
This variety grows as a compact, rounded shrub with an open branching structure.
It typically reaches around 1 to 1.5 metres in height and width, making it suitable for smaller gardens and structured planting. (Australian Plants Online)
Growth rate is moderate under favourable conditions.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun. Full sun is essential for strong colour development and compact growth.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is drought tolerant and requires only occasional watering.
Soil
Prefers well-draining soil, ideally slightly acidic. Good drainage is critical, as it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. (Seasol)
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for temperate and coastal climates. It tolerates heat, wind, and light frost (down to approximately -5°C). (Navigators Nursery)
Maintenance
Low maintenance. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages new growth.
Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as regrowth may be limited.
Fertilising should be minimal and low in phosphorus, as with most Proteaceae plants.
Common Issues
Generally very hardy when grown in well-draining soil.
Poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Reduced colour may occur in low light conditions.
Overwatering is the most common cause of decline.
Applications
Leucadendron ‘Super Star’ is suitable for:
Feature planting
Mass planting
Borders and low hedging
Coastal gardens
Rockeries and dry gardens
Cut flower production
Its seasonal colour and structure make it ideal for modern and native-style landscapes.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Leucadendron salignum ‘Super Star’ |
| Common Name |
Super Star Conebush |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub |
| Mature Height |
1 m to 1.5 m |
| Growth Habit |
Compact, rounded |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun |
| Direct Sunlight |
Required |
| Watering Frequency |
Low once established |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, slightly acidic |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to coastal |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost (to approx. -5°C) |
| Drought Tolerance |
High |
| Maintenance Level |
Low |
| Fertiliser |
Low phosphorus recommended |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Leucadendron ‘Super Star’
When does it show colour?
Colour is strongest from autumn through winter and into spring.
Is it drought tolerant?
Yes, it is highly drought tolerant once established.
Does it need full sun?
Yes, full sun is essential for best colour and growth.
Can it be used for cut flowers?
Yes, it is widely used for long-lasting cut stems.
Is it suitable for coastal gardens?
Yes, it tolerates wind and coastal exposure well.
How big does it grow?
Typically reaches around 1 to 1.5 metres in height and width.
