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Karoo Cycad

Encephalartos Lehmannii

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Overview

The Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos lehmannii) is a drought-tolerant South African native. This slow-growing cycad reaches up to 4-6 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. It sports rigid, blue-green leaves that form a dense rosette, yielding a distinctive, sculptural presence. Preferring well-drained soil and full sun, it's an excellent focal point for xeriscapes. Hardy in zones 9-11, periodic deep watering suffices once established.

Sun HalfWater MediumZones 10–11Type Palm

Culture

Sun
Half
Water
Medium
USDA zones
10–11

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Palm
Family
Zamiaceae

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Photos (32)

Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — is a prehistoric and architecturally striking plant native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — the Karoo Cycad is dioecious
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — The Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos lehmannii) is a drought-tolerant South African native; preferring well-drained soil and
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — Hardy in zones 9-11, periodic deep watering suffices once established
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — meaning separate male and female plants produce cones - the males slender and the females thicker
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — this cycad is an exemplary specimen
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — some rare specimens may extend up to 6 to 7 feet
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — these leaves contribute a striking contrast to any landscape design
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — making it an admirable choice for xeriscaping or arid garden themes
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — offering a touch of ancient allure to modern gardens
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — the pinnate fronds can grow to a length of 3 to 4 feet
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — This slow-growing cycad reaches up to 4-6 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — scientifically named Encephalartos lehmannii
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — A periodic application of a balanced
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — The leaflets align themselves neatly along the rachis, presenting a rigid and somewhat spiky aspect
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — especially when juxtaposed with softer
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — columnar trunk that reaches up to 3 to 5 feet in height
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — For landscapes where conservation and sustainability are key
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — this cycad possesses a stout
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — palm for half
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — Renowned for its resilience and captivating form
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — slow-release fertilizer can help sustain its vitality.<br><br>Both aesthetically appealing and low-maintenance
Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos Lehmannii) — offering a robust appearance.<br><br>Crowned with a dense rosette of blue-green leaves
Photographs by 12 contributors

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