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Natal Cycad

Encephalartos Natalensis

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Overview

The Karoo Cycad (Encephalartos natalensis) is a striking South African native with a robust stem reaching up to 6.5 feet tall and 1.5 feet in diameter. Its arching, pinnate fronds grow up to 10 feet long, displaying glossy, dark green leaflets. Thriving in USDA zones 9-11, it requires well-drained soil and partial shade. Drought-tolerant once established, it adds a prehistoric elegance to landscapes. Ideal for focal points in xeriscapes.

Sun HalfWater MediumZones 10–11Type Palm
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — Thriving in USDA zones 9-11, it requires well-drained soil and partial shade

Culture

Sun
Half
Water
Medium
USDA zones
10–11

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Palm
Family
Zamiaceae

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Photos (48)

Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — Ideal for focal points in xeriscapes; its arching, pinnate fronds grow up to 10 feet long, displaying glossy, dark
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — palm for half
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — the Karoo Cycad reaches an impressive height of 6 to 10 feet with a spread of 4 to 6 feet once mature
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — presenting a dramatic rosette that offers year-round visual interest.<br><br>Importantly
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — Its striking fronds can grow to lengths of 5 to 7 feet; thriving in USDA zones 9-11, it requires well-drained soil and
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — Ideal for focal points in xeriscapes
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — where it thrives in well-drained soils and sunny positions; coping well with arid conditions once established
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — natalensis is a dioecious species, meaning separate male and female plants exist
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — commonly called the Karoo Cycad
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — palm-like perennial indigenous to South Africa; barrel-shaped cones of about 1 to 1.5 feet long
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — curving outward from a central trunk that may become stout and woody over time; sculptural elegance to the
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — Its arching, pinnate fronds grow up to 10 feet long, displaying glossy, dark green leaflets; ideal for focal points in
Natal Cycad (Encephalartos Natalensis) — sculptural elegance to the landscape.<br><br>Typically
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Encephalartos Natalensis
Photographs by 8 contributors

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