Conostylis aculeata

The flower heads of Conostylis aculeata are often followed by long, thin seed-pods and during their flowering season from late winter to late spring, the shrub is covered in dainty blooms of sunny yellow and white.

Growing up to 2-5 feet, Prickly Conostylis is a small shrub with attractive foliage and is popular for rockeries or informal hedges, even adding a delightful element to rock walls. Recommended for warm climates, it prefers sun to semi-shade and moderate watering. Additionally, these plants are frost hardy and respond well to an occasional prune, making them great for cold climate regions like USDA Zone 9-11.

Prickly Conostylis is a hardy plant and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers soils which are well-draining and can cope with dry spells if there is adequate sunlight and protection from the wind. Growers should not hesitate to use light mulch to protect its root system and to retain moisture. Watering in during the spring and summer season is recommended during times of drought. The plant also needs to be pruned every few years to keep its neat and tidy.

In regions with cooler climates, the best way to grow Prickly Conostylis is in a pot, as this will provide better protection against cold weather conditions. When planting the shrub in a pot, the grower should make sure to choose one that is evenly sized and with drainage holes at the bottom. Additionally, it should be planted in a spot that gets an adequate amount of sunlight. To get the most out of its flowering potential, the pot should also be watered regularly and soil should be checked periodically to ensure it is not becoming overly dry. In colder areas, where temperatures are more likely to drop well below freezing, the pot should be covered with a layer of mulch in the winter to protect the plant roots and prevent damage. Re-potting every two to three years is also recommended as this will help keep the plant healthy and robust.

Similar plants:

• Conostylis candicans (Grey Cottonhead)