Leucospermum commonly known as Pincushions is a genus of about 50 species of flowering plants in the family Proteaceae, indigenous to South Africa and Zimbabwe, where they occupy a variety of habitats, including fynbos, scrub, forest, and mountain slopes. The majority of them occur in the winter rainfall regions of the Western Cape Province. They are evergreen shrubs or rarely small trees growing from 50cm to 5m tall and are also well suited to being used in rockeries and pots. The leaves are spirally arranged, tough and leathery, with a serrated margin. The beautiful flowers are produced in dense inflorescences, which have large numbers of prominent styles, which inspired the common name. An added attraction during flowering time is the numerous birds attracted to the plants. The genus is closely related in evolution and appearance to the Australian genus Banksia.

Leucospermum conocarpodendron commonly known as Grey Tree Pincushion in English and Vaalkreupelhout or Goudsboom in Afrikaans is South African endemic species found in the Western Cape Provinces Northern Cape Peninsula. It makes a decorative garden shrub, often with an interesting bent shape, and it provides an unusual colour combination of greyish foliage and bright, golden yellow flowers. Leucospermum conocarpodendron is relatively slow growing, yet produces its first flowers in its third year from seed. This species makes an attractive garden shrub providing contrast with its grey foliage and flower colour from early spring until midsummer. It is a good cut flower that lasts well in a vase.