Encephalartos natalensis
Natal Cycad
Genus: Encephalartos · Family: Zamiaceae
75· Very Rare
About
A large cycad from KwaZulu-Natal province, also known as the Bread Tree. Woolly crown and arching leaves with stiff, spiny-tipped leaflets. Produces large yellow cones.
Native Regions
South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal
Height Range
6.5m
Growth Form
Single to multi-stemmed
CITES Listing
Appendix I
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat Type
Grasslands and rocky outcrops in KwaZulu-Natal
Origin & Distribution
South Africa (KwaZulu-Natal province)
Key Characteristics
- Woolly crown
- arching leaves
- stiff, spiny-tipped leaflets
- large yellow cones
Distinct Features
- Persistent leaf bases
- starchy trunk historically used for food (Bread Tree)
References
Sources: SANBI Documentation; Wikipedia: Encephalartos
Image Source: SANBI & Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA)
Community Photos