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.
About the genus
Encephalartos is a genus of cycad native to Africa. Several species of Encephalartos are commonly referred to as bread trees, or bread palms since a bread-like starchy food can be prepared from the centre of the stem. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek ἐγκέφαλος, meaning "head", and ἄρτος, meaning "bread", referring to the use of the pith to make food.
Wikipedia contributors, "Encephalartos", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Encephalartos
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.
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