|
|
[2nd Image]
|
 |
|
|
| Category: Cycad |
| Family: Cycadaceae (Cycads) |
| Origin: South Africa (Africa) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: NA |
| Bloomtime: Infrequent |
| Height: 15-20 feet |
| Width: Clumping |
| Exposure: Full Sun |
| Summer Dry: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 25-30° F |
|
|
|
|
Encephalartos natalensis (Natal Giant Cycad) - This tall cycad can have stems of up to 6 m by 40 cm across. It is usually solitary, but can grow in clumps of up to 11 stems. Cones are yellow with red seeds, female plants have 3-4 cones per stem, males have slightly smaller cones with 4-5 on each stem. Young leaves have white silky hairs and mature into large 1-3M x 30-40 cm glossy green leaves. No other Encephalartos has such a wide variation in foliage and cone sizes - at least seven forms can be distinguished. It takes full sun, has low water needs, and is hardy to about 25 degrees F.
The information on this page is based on the research that we have conducted about this plant in the San Marcos Growers library, from what we have found on reliable online sources, as well as from observations made of our crops of this plant growing in the nursery and of plants growing in the nursery's garden and those in other gardens where we may have observed it. We also have incorporated comments received from others and welcome getting feedback from those who may have additional information, particularly if this information includes cultural information that would aid others in growing Encephalartos natalensis. |
| |
|
|
|
