Leucospermum Carnival Red - 14cm Pot

Leucospermum ‘Carnival® Red’ is a striking evergreen shrub producing masses of vibrant red pincushion-shaped flowers in spring, with flowering sometimes beginning in winter. Its unusual blooms stand out against the green foliage, bringing bold colour and texture to sunny garden beds.

A compact, bushy hybrid from the Carnival® range, ‘Carnival Red’ is particularly valued for its prolific flowering and attractive growth habit. Its nectar-rich flowers attract birds and beneficial pollinators, while the long-lasting blooms also make excellent cut flowers for floral arrangements.

A member of the Proteaceae family, this South African hybrid is well suited to sunny, well-drained gardens. Once established, it has relatively low water requirements, making it a practical choice for coastal, contemporary and native-inspired landscapes.

Mature size: approximately 1.5 metres high × 1.5 metres wide

Care & Growing Tips
Plant in full sun in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Good airflow and at least six hours of direct sunlight will encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Excellent drainage is essential, as Leucospermums are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, particularly during Melbourne's cooler, wetter months. In heavy clay soils, consider planting in raised garden beds or large containers with a suitable free-draining potting mix.

Water regularly while establishing, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, plants are relatively drought tolerant and generally only require occasional deep watering during extended hot, dry periods.

Use a low-phosphorus fertiliser suitable for Proteaceae if feeding is required. Avoid standard high-phosphorus fertilisers, manure and excessive applications of rich compost, which can damage sensitive roots.

Apply a coarse mulch, such as bark or wood chips, to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch clear of the main stem to prevent excess moisture around the base.

Lightly prune after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape and encourage fresh growth. Avoid cutting back into old, leafless wood.

‘Carnival Red’ tolerates light frost but should be protected from severe frosts, particularly while young.

Ideal for
– Sunny garden beds.
– Feature planting.
– Coastal gardens.
– Contemporary landscapes.
– Native-inspired planting schemes.
– Mixed shrub borders.
– Large decorative containers.
– Low-water gardens.
– Bird and pollinator-friendly gardens.
– Cut flower arrangements.
– Adding vibrant red colour in spring.