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Bente
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This South African bloomer is officially called Leucospermum cordifolium. Luckily we can just call it pincushion protea. As you can see, this name refers to the manner in which it flowers. The fabulous flower looks a bit spiky initially, but it’s soon revealed to have not pins, but extravagant and enthusiastic flower stalks.
Caring for pincushion
If you want to enjoy your pincushion for as long as possible, follow the tips below!
- Trim the stem diagonally.
- Use a clean vase and fill it with tap water at room temperature.
- Add cut flower food (preferably shrub food) to the water for a longer vase life, and regularly top the vase up with tap water.
- Don't place your vase with pincushions in a draught, in direct sunlight, near a source of heat or beside a fruit bowl.
- Make sure there are no leaves hanging in the water.
Colours and shapes
Although originally orange, the flower now also comes in ochre, lemon and a reddish colour. The sturdy leaves are slightly hairy and point upwards along the stem. The leaf is coated with a thin layer of wax as protection against the salty sea wind… although it probably doesn’t need it indoors.
Symbolism
The name Leucospermum comes from Greek and literally means ‘white seed’. Cordifolium means ‘having heart-shaped flowers’. You would therefore think that there is a lot of symbolism attached to this flower. But sadly you have to create your own symbolic meaning. However, the various colours do have their own meaning. Hence yellow represents a new beginning, radiance and happiness.
Origin
This small South African tree originally grew on rocky slopes on the coast in the south-west of the Cape of Good Hope. The pincushion protea is now also grown in Israel and Australia.
