Species 2

Plant Family and Species
Family: Proteaceae
Species: Petrophile canescens
Description
Plant Height: Usually grows to around 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) tall.
Growth Habits: It is an erect, shrub-like plant with narrow leaves and cylindrical, cone-shaped inflorescences.
Flower Characteristics: The flowers are yellow or cream, tubular, and occur in clusters. These clusters develop into woody, cone-like fruiting structures (hence the name "Conesticks").
Leaf Characteristics: Leaves are needle-like, deeply divided, and often covered in fine hairs, giving them a woolly appearance.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Watering: Prefers well-drained soils; drought-tolerant once established.
Light: Grows best in full sun to light shade.
Soil: Suited for sandy or rocky soils, as it is native to heathland areas.
Temperature: Tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, but prefers mild to warm climates.
Humidity: Can tolerate dry conditions; does not require high humidity.
Care Instructions
Planting: Can be grown from seeds, but germination can be slow. Requires stratification (cold treatment) for seeds to sprout.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed, but occasional shaping may be done to maintain its form.
Fertilizing: Low-nutrient soils are preferred; avoid high-phosphorus fertilizers, as Petrophile species are sensitive to them.
Pest Management: Generally pest-resistant but can be affected by root rot in poorly drained soils.
Uses
Medicinal: No known medicinal uses.
Culinary: Not used for culinary purposes.
Ornamental: Popular in native gardens for its striking cone-shaped flowers and drought tolerance.
Environmental Benefits: Provides nectar for native birds and insects, making it a useful plant for encouraging biodiversity in the garden.
Plant’s Origin
Native Region: Eastern Australia, including coastal areas of Queensland like Moreton Bay.
Climate: Adapted to temperate and subtropical climates, with a preference for heathlands and sandy soils.
Conservation Status
Conservation Status: Not currently listed as endangered, but like many native Australian plants, its natural habitat may be at risk due to land development and environmental changes.