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Encephalartos altensteinii

Prickly Cycad; Bread Tree

Plant photo of: Encephalartos altensteinii
Information by: missouribotanicalgarden.org        Photographer:

 

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

Water Saving Tip:

Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.

Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.