OTHER CYCAD FEATURES
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Unfortunately, we have few photographs of this
species
By Agaveville Website
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ENCEPHALARTOS NGOYANUS
Locality:
This species has a fairly wide
area of distribution. It is endemic to South Africa, Swaziland
and Mozambique. This species grows in open grasslands (which
experience periodic fires) and in forested areas. Often they
are situated in rocky soil and amongst boulders. Their climate
can vary depending on locality, but generally the areas are hot
and can range in moisture from dry to semi-wet/humid.
Plant Size: This is a
smaller species. The trunk is primarily subterranean, though in
some cases can be partially/minimally exposed. Leaves rarely
exceed a meter, and are generally shorter in length. The trunks
are narrow and short, though much of that is below soil. This
species can branch, but this is very rare and is generally
caused by some sort of trauma or injury to the plant. Normally,
this plant is solitary and bears no basal suckers.
Other Characteristics:
The name 'ngoyanus' is in reference to the Ngoye
Forest, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (one of the plant's
native localities). This is also the original habitat for
Encephalartos woodii. The leaflets on this plant tend to
be a bright, shiny green when emerging, later becoming a dull
dark or olive green. The leaflets and petiole are unarmed and
are fairly soft to the touch. It is a slow growing cycad, and
takes decades to achieve any sort of size. This plant is quite
similar in stature and appearance to Encephalartos caffer,
but is not as easy to grow and (in most climates) is not as
full. Another interesting characteristic about this plant is
that it has 'contractile roots'. Contractile roots means that
roots will contract, pulling the plant back into the ground.
This is not uncommon to see in species that are subterranean.
Female cones on this species are a bright green. The
sporophylls have a jagged/saw-like fringe. Male cones emerge
green and turn a yellow color with maturity.
Culture: In coastal and
inland areas, this species needs to be in filtered light or
shade. For desert areas, this species requires shade. This
species need a soil that drains well, and is sensitive to being
overly wet (especially during winter months).
Landscape Usage: This
is a beautiful species and can fit in any garden that can offer
shade or sun protection. It never gets big and will add a cute,
dwarf Encephalartos. It is safe along walkways and seating.
Availability: We
typically can only a few plants of this species at any given
time. Seeds just are not available.
Pricing:
Encephalartos ngoyanus is a fairly rare and we have
very limited numbers. Examples of usual sizes that are available with prices are listed below.
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