Leucadendron rubrum

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Leucadendron rubrum
Leucadendron rubrum 1DS-II 2-3764.jpg

Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Order: Proteales
Family: Proteaceae
Genus: Leucadendron
Species:
L. rubrum
Binomial name
Leucadendron rubrum

Leucadendron rubrum, the spinning top, 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[]

Leucadendron rubrum f Nicola van Berkel 3.jpg

The shrub grows 2.5 m (8.2 ft) tall and flowers from August to September. Fire destroys the plant but the seeds survive. The seeds are stored in a toll on the female plant and are released where they are spread by the wind. The seed has a parachute mechanism that allows it to float and rotate through the air. The plant is unisexual and there are male and female plants that reproduce by wind pollination.

In Afrikaans, it is known as Dikkopeierbos.

Distribution and habitat[]

The plant occurs in the , , Cederberg to the Hottentots Holland Mountains and Riviersonderend Mountains, , Rooiberg, Kammanassie Mountains, Piketberg, Table Mountain, and the Cape Flats. It grows mainly in granite or sandstone at altitudes of 250–1,500 m (820–4,920 ft).

Gallery[]

References[]

  1. ^ Rebelo, A.G., Mtshali, H. & von Staden, L. 2020. Leucadendron rubrum. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2020: e.T113170547A157949675. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T113170547A157949675.en. Downloaded on 06 September 2021.
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