Leucadendron is a South African endemic genus in the Protea family, Proteaceae. The genus consists of about 80 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees. They are a prominent part of the fynbos ecoregion and vegetation type. Most species are shrubs that grow up to 1 m tall, some to 2 or 3 m. A few grow into moderate-sized trees up to 16 m tall. The flowers are produced in dense inflorescences; they are dioecious, with separate male and female plants. The seed heads, or infructescences, of Leucadendron are woody cone-like structures. This gave rise to their generic common name cone-bush. They are prized for their exotic-looking attractive flowers, cones and foliage. Leucadendron blossoms make excellent cut flowers, keeping their gorgeous red, burgundy, green or yellow color for up to three weeks. In the garden they do well in rockeries and also make excellent feature plants. Look for a spot that receives bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours each day and offers excellent soil drainage. Leucadendron species perform best when planted on slopes that allow excess water to drain safely away from the plant. Pruning and shaping should be done each year in spring. This will help to keep the plant strong and compact. You should only cut the stems that held the blooms during or after flowering. When you cut, leave about 10-15cm of stem behind on the bush. This is where they will re-shoot. Leucadendron species grow very well in pots. This may be a good option for those with a heavy clay soil or a small garden. Use a potting mix for natives and add a slow-release fertilizer for natives in spring and autumn. As the potting mix is very free-draining regular watering will be required.

Leucadendron thymifolium commonly known as Malmesbury Conebush or Thymeleaf Protea in English and Katsterttolbos or Swartveldknoppiesbos in Afrikaans is a South African endemic species found exclusively in the Western Cape Province from Dassenberg to Klipheuwel. Leucadendron thymifolium is a Critically Endangered plant and experts predict this species could be extinct by 2025. Leucadendron thymifolium is a shrub that reaches a maximum height of 2 m. At the base it has a single stem branching into slender upright stems further up. Stems are hairy when young and become smooth at maturity. Leaves are elliptic to oblong. The leaves on male plants are much smaller than the leaves on female plants making it hard to see that they are in fact the same species.