Overview

Encephalartos lehmannii is a plant with a tree habit in the genus Encephalartos, part of the Zamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Encephalartos lehmannii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include specimen plant and conservatory plant.

About

Encephalartos lehmannii, commonly known as the Karoo cycad, is an evergreen tree belonging to the genus Encephalartos. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers a sheltered position with south- or west-facing aspect. This cultivar grows best in well-drained loam or sandy soil with neutral pH and average moisture. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable as a specimen plant or for cultivation in a conservatory. Interest in this plant is particularly notable during spring and summer, and it can be propagated by seed or offsets.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Encephalartos

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Average
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Encephalartos lehmannii size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Tree
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Specimen plant, Conservatory plant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Encephalartos lehmannii

Propagation
Seed, Offsets
Pest resistance
High
Disease resistance
High

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Encephalartos lehmannii?

Encephalartos lehmannii prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Encephalartos lehmannii need?

Encephalartos lehmannii grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays average.

Is Encephalartos lehmannii hardy in the UK?

Encephalartos lehmannii has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Encephalartos lehmannii?

Seed, Offsets.