ENCEPHALARTOS LATIFRONS GREEN TO BLUE-GREEN SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD ONE OF THE MOST RARE CYCADS IN THE WORLD

JUST IN – LIMITED NUMBER 5 GALLON JUVENILE PLANTS

This species is endemic to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. There are a number of very small and scattered plants in two populations in habitat. This species is on the verge of extinction, decreasing populations can be linked to poaching, agriculture and farming. The climate is hot and dry, rarely freezes and gets very little rain during summer months (the “wet” season). Plants grow in rocky soil and hills, in grasslands and amongst dry scrub brush vegetation. This is a medium sized plant. Leaves can range in size from a meter to a meter and a half depending on cultivar. Stems tend can reach approximately three meters (ancient plant, this is a VERY slow growing species). This species name comes from the Latin words meaning “broad leafed”.

E. latifrons is exceptionally rare and has been on the brink of extinction for well over a century. It has green or blue green leaves. There are two distinct cultivars of this plant, “Trappes Valley” and ” green hills”. Between the two types, the Trappes Valley form is more sought after. It has wide leaflets with prominent lobes (a modified spine) which stack heavily. The leaves also tend to be a bit shorter with a bit more curl (though curl can vary between plants). The green hills variety has smaller leaflets which are spread further apart. The leaves are longer and tend to have a more dull color. Between the two types, the green hills cultivar is a better grower, but isn’t nearly as attractive. E. latifrons tend to be dark green on the top of the leaflet and a lighter green (yellow green or blue green) below. Also, they have prominent veining on the bottom side of the leaflet as well. Leaflet are thick and sturdy, with prominent spines. The petioles are armed as well, making this a fairly sharp species. In coastal and inland areas, this plant wants to be in full sun. In desert areas, partial sun or filtered light is ideal. This plant need a soil that drains well.
From a plant enthusiast’s point of view, this is one of the most difficult cycads to obtain in all countries. And, they are always expensive. We got in a limited number of these for sale – all from domestic seed by an experienced grower. They are about four years old and we’re putting them on special. Caudex size is about an inch.Most have three leaves. This size can be mail ordered with the U.S. When these sell out it may be several years before we have them again.