ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS – BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

Encephalartos arenarius is from the coastal dunes and forest close to Alexandria in the Eastern Cape.  This species is small to medium in mature size.  Leaf length can range from one to two meters (i.e. three to six feet approximately) depending on cultivar and exposure to sun.  Like many of the Encephalartos from the Eastern Cape, this species is variable in color, size and leaf type.  E. arenarius can range in color from a dull green to a powdery white color (bearing a likeness to E. horridus). The plants of this species are both blue and green forms, but this plant below is the blue type – especially when in full sun.  To get this color it will want full sun or an ample amount of sun.  It prefers a well draining soil.  Speed of growth of this cycad is good.

The size we’re putting on special are younger 5 gallon with caudexes of about an inch.  They can continue growing in these pots for about three years.  This batch should have blue-green leaves.

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Phil Bergman

Owner at Jungle Music Palms & Cycads

Phil Bergman runs a nursery in San Diego County, Jungle Music. He writes articles on all sorts of palm, cycad, and tropical plants.

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