OTHER CYCAD FEATURES
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ENCEPHALARTOS LATIFRONS
Locality:
This species is endemic to the Eastern Cape Province of
South Africa. There are a number of very small and
scattered plants in two populations in habitat. This
species is on the verge of extinction, decreasing populations
can be linked to poaching, agriculture and farming. The
climate is hot and dry, rarely freezes and gets very little rain
during summer months (the "wet" season). Plants grow in
rocky soil and hills, in grasslands and amongst dry scrub brush
vegetation.
Plant Size: This is a medium
sized plant. Leaves can range in size from a meter to a
meter and a half depending on cultivar. Stems tend can
reach approximately three meters (ancient plant, this is a
VERY slow growing species).
Other Characteristics:
This species name comes from the Latin words meaning "broad
leafed". E. latifrons is exceptionally rare and has been
on the brink of extinction for well over a century. It has
green or blue green leaves. There are two distinct
cultivars of this plant, "Trappes Valley" and " green hills".
Between the two types, the Trappes Valley form is more sought
after. It has wide leaflets with prominent lobes (a
modified spine) which stack heavily. The leaves also tend
to be a bit shorter with a bit more curl (though curl can vary
between plants). The green hills variety has smaller
leaflets which are spread further apart. The leaves are
longer and tend to have a more dull color. Between the two
types, the green hills cultivar is a better grower, but isn't
nearly as attractive. E. latifrons tend to be
dark green on the top of the leaflet and a lighter green (yellow
green or blue green) below. Also, they have prominent
veining on the bottom side of the leaflet as well. Leaflet
are thick and sturdy, with prominent spines. The petioles
are armed as well, making this a fairly sharp species.
Female cones are a yellow green, where males cones are a blue
green.
Culture: In coastal and inland areas, this plant wants
to be in full sun. In desert
areas, partial sun or filtered light is ideal. This plant
need a soil that drains well.
Landscape Usage: .This is a
beautiful and exceptionally rare plant. It should be
planted where it can be appreciated and seen. As it is a
smaller plant you will want to place it in the foreground of a
planting.
Availability: We
have a few of this species in stock every year or so. They are
few and far between. So, availability is scarce and plants
sell quickly. We also have some interesting E.
latifrons hybrids (last photo). Let us know if you seek this species and will notify
you when one is available.
Pricing:
Encephalartos laitfrons is among the most
expensive cycads in the world to obtain. This is because
of rarity and lack of availability of seeds. If and when
we acquire one for sale, we can quote pricing at that time.
Let us know if you seek this species and we'll keep you posted.
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