Near Threatened

Leucospermum cordifolium
We are so lucky in Rooiels to see the Leocospermum cordifolium along the dirt track from Rooiels to Pringle Bay. Here they flower with orange abundance from spring into early summer, and sugarbirds, sunbirds and insects visit and pollinate the flowers.
Once pollinated, ants take the seeds into their nests in the soil. Only the outer part gets eaten by the young ants and the seeds remain underground.
The seeds need the heat of a veld fire and the nutrients from the burnt fynbos to germinate properly. After some good rains, the seedlings appear.
Leocospermum cordifolium can be found from the Kogelberg to Bredasdorp in acid, nutrient-poor soil, but they are classified as “Rare” due to loss of habitat.
Before the 2017 fire in our area, there was only one colony of about 7 plants along the dirt road. There are now quite a few plants scattered all the way. There is also a new colony of about 10 plants and one would possibly find more, should one venture into onto the private properties.
Leucospermum cordifolium is an excellent garden plant, attracting many birds. It can be pruned back to stimulate growth and more flowers. They are very sensitive to the fungal disease Phytophthora cinnamomeum.
Status: “Rare”, due to loss of habitat.

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