Encephalartos altensteinii
Prickly Cycad; Bread Tree
Description
Encephalartos altensteinii, commonly called prickly cycad, is a very slow-growing, evergreen tree with palm-like foliage that is native to South Africa (East Cape Province). In the early years, this tree appears trunkless, producing stiff, pinnate, palm-like leaves with spiny bright green leaflets. Leaves are whorled into a dense upright crown. Over time, a stout trunk begins to develop, eventually rising to 12-16’ tall. Trunks often tend to recline once they reach about 10’ tall. On mature trees, leaves in the terminal crown will grow to as much as 9’ long. This is a dioecious tree that reproduces by seed cones. Large yellowish-green cones on female trees grow to 22” long, somewhat resembling a pineapple. Cones on male trees are cylindrical and smaller. Leaflets usually have prickles, hence the common name of prickly cycad. Another common name for this tree is bread tree. Winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-12 where it can be grown outdoors in medium moisture, well-drained loams in full sun to part shade. Tolerates shade. Best performance occurs in moist soils with regular irrigation, but avoid overwatering. Tolerates drought. Also tolerates occasional light frost. Ornamental specimen for frost free areas. Grow in conservatories, warm greenhouses or as indoor potted plants north of USDA Zone 10. Excellent trunkless indoor container plant when young.
Plant Type
Shrub, Fern
Height Range
3-6', 6-12'
Width Range
3-6'
Flower Color
n/a
Flower Season
n/a
Leaf Color
Light Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Half, Shade
Water
Medium, High
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Loam
Soil Condition
Rich, Well-drained, Moist
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Tropical, Water Garden
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Entry, Foundation, Patio, Swimming Pool
Special Uses
Container, Screen
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Fix leaking sprinklers, valves, and pipes.
One broken spray sprinkler can waste 10 gallons per minute - or 100 gallons in a typical 10 minute watering cycle.