No. 20 - Leucospermum cordifolium - Postcard Set of 10

Leucospermum cordifolium, also known as Speldekussingbos or nodding pincushion, is a proteaceous shrub (member of Proteaceae) endemic to South Africa and Zimbabwe. This species prefers acidic soils and grows amongst Fynbos vegetation, experiencing a Mediterranean-like climate with wet winters and dry summers.

Like other Leucospermum species, the seeds of L. cordifolium contain an elaiosome, which is a fleshy structure attached to the seed that is rich in proteins and fats. These elaiosomes serve as an important food source for local ant populations. The ants will carry seed into their burrow where the colony will feed on the nutrient-rich elaiosomes. This unique symbiotic relationship also benefits L. cordifolium since the ants effectively plant and prime its seeds for germination.