Specializing in rare cycads, palms, and succulents. We offer a large selection of species for mailorder or pickup. Thanks for visiting!
Encephalartos horridus is one of my favorite Cycads. It originates from South Africa. This is one plant that every collector wants in their collection. Fortunately it is not as rare and expensive as some other African favorites! The beautiful dusty blue foliage makes this species a great choice for use in the landscape. As cycads go this is not a large growing plant. Trunks rarely exceed two feet in height. The growth habit is more like a large bush. As plants mature they produce many "pups" at the base of the parent plant. This gives the impression of a large single plant. E. horridus is a spiny plant. Even with the occasional "pricks" you get, this plant is well worth growing.
Plant E. horridus in part shade to full sun. Here in California I have found that the blue color of the leaves does not fade out in the shade as some growers report. Make sure you have well draining soil for your plant. You can water regularly in the summer months as long as your soil drains quickly. If you are growing in a container the same applies, don't let your plant dry out in the summer months. If your winters are cold and wet like we have in So. California cut back on your watering and let your plant go "dormant". Make sure your plant has protection from cold weather. E. horridus can only tolerate several degrees below freezing, and for only a short time. Fertilize lightly during the growing season.
As with all cycads one must have a male and female plant to produce seeds. If you are lucky enough to have both sexs, and produce viable seeds, you will have lots of 'babies" to take care of. One female cone can produce over a hundred seeds! Offsets or "pups" can also be removed and rooted. As with most cycads patience is very important. These plants are not fast growing, however they are well worth the time and effort. You will be rewarded with beautiful plant that everyone will notice and want!
