OTHER CYCAD FEATURES
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Photo c/o CYKASY Website
Photo by Peter Heibloom
Photo by the late Ken Hill
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ENCEPHALARTOS
SEPTENTRIONALIS
Locality: This species is endemic
to southern Sudan, northern Uganda, northern Democratic
Republic of the Congo and in the interior of the Central
African Republic. (Bösenberg, J.D. 2010.
Encephalartos septentrionalis) The species
grows over a wide range of elevations, which may play a
role in the varied hardiness of some plants over others.
Though this species has a very large area of
distribution, populations are relatively small and far
apart. It is not currently endangered, but changes
in climate, increased agricultural needs and the
potential for poaching are always a concern.
E. septentrionalis grows in rocky soil and
outcroppings through grasslands, brushlands and woods.
The climate is hot and fairly humid. The wet
months are during the summer, where this species can get
a fair amount of precipitation.
Plant Size: This is a
medium sized species. Leaves range between a meter
to a meter and a half depending on exposure, and stem
get about two meters. This species can produce
suckers heavily, but generally does not.
Other Characteristics: The
name 'septentrionalis' comes from the Latin
word meaning "north or northern". This is
because it is one of the furthest species
Encephalartos to the north. (The Cycads,
Encephalartos septentrionalis, Whitelock & Benadom)
The long, upright leaves of the species are mildly armed
on both the leaflets and the petioles. New leaves
are often covered in a fine whitish tomentum which falls
off as the leaves mature (but is maintained on the
petioles for quite a while). Stems are often a
dark brown/woody color. This is a moderate growing
species, and does seem to have hardiness issues in
subtropical climates. It can be grown, but will
often look shabby for part of the year. Both the
male and female cones on the species are a yellow/brown
color when mature.
Culture: In coastal and inland
areas, this species can grow in sun, but they tend to
look better with some protection. For desert
areas, I recommend filtered light or shade. This
species wants a loamy soil that drains well.
Landscape Usage:
This is a beautiful species and is quite
impressive, if you have the climate for it. As I
mentioned earlier, this is not the most hardy species.
For those who can offer protection or have a warm enough
climate, this is an exception plant. It is best
suited to gardens with an established canopy, and will
function as midrange growth. I would set is back
from any walkway or seating as they can take up some
room.
Availability: We,
on occasion, have this species for sale. It is
super rare and hard to find. Presently we have
very limited numbers available. Seeds
have not been available lately. Give us a a call
or email about the size you seek.
Pricing:
Encephalartos septentrionalis is a very
rare species and tends to be expensive for a green leafed
species.
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