Additional notes (click to expand)

Horticulture

Moutains of Natal and Zululand, S. Africa. Full sun. Hardy.

Endangered species on CITES Appendix I

Toxicity

Toxic due to presence of azoxyglycosides, such as macrozamin and cycasin. Carcinogenic and teratogenic on ingestion .
Professor Anthony Dayan, 2022

Geographical distribution

  • Africa, Southern Africa, Cape Provinces
  • Africa, Southern Africa, KwaZulu-Natal

Encephalartos natalensis

Family: ZAMIACEAE
Genus: Encephalartos
Species: natalensis
Common names: Natal Cycad
Distribution summary: Temperate South Africa
Conservation status (IUCN Red List): Near Threatened
Habit: Cycad
Hardiness: H4 - Hardy; average winter
Habitat: Cliff top ledges
Garden status: Currently grown
Garden location: Plants in pots (POT)
Reason for growing: Toxic


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