High Gold Pincushion Protea (Leucospermum 'High Gold')

High Gold Pincushion Protea

Leucospermum 'High Gold'

Vibrant golden pincushion blooms glow like sunshine. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: High Gold Pincushion Protea.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for abundant blooming; tolerates partial shade but will produce fewer flowers
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Watering Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top 15–20 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in cool to warm temperatures; protect from frost below 5°C and extreme heat above 35°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Leathery, lance-shaped leaves with smooth margins, arranged alternately on woody stems
  • Flower: Dense spherical "pincushion" inflorescences in bright golden-yellow, with prominent protruding styles
  • Stem: Woody branching stems with grayish-brown, slightly rough bark
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and blooming periods

Fertilization

Apply low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid high-phosphorus fertilizers, which can damage root systems

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with stems to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms immediately after flowering to encourage new growth and subsequent blooms
  • Thin overcrowded branches in late spring to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
  • Trim back leggy stems to maintain a compact, rounded shrub form
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No recorded toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans; safe for handling and cut flower use

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes success, abundance, and positive energy; popular in wedding and event floral arrangements

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub, commercial cut flower crop