- Source: Leucadendron dregei
Leucadendron dregei, the summit conebush, is a flower-bearing shrub belonging to the genus Leucadendron and forms part of the fynbos. The plant is native to the Western Cape, South Africa.
Description
The shrub grows to a height of approximately 0.6 meters (2.0 feet) and blooms during the months of November to December. Although fire can destroy the plant, its seeds are able to survive. The seeds are stored in a structure on the female plant and are released during hot weather, being dispersed by the wind. The plant is unisexual with separate male and female individuals. Pollination is achieved through small insects. This species is considered rare, as it grows slowly and faces challenges in reproducing due to frequent fires.
In Afrikaans, it is known as oranjetolbos.
Distribution and habitat
The plant occurs in the Swartberg from Touwsberg to Meiringspoort. It grows mainly on southern mountain slopes at altitudes of 1,500–2,000 m (4,900–6,600 ft).
References
Threatened Species Programme | SANBI Red List of South African Plants
Leucadendron dregei (Summit conebush)
Summit Conebush