Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Eastern Cape dwarf cycad (Encephalartos afer) is a small, slow-growing cycad native to South Africa, known for its stout trunk and blue-green leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Thrives in bright light, but can tolerate some shade.
Allow soil to dry out between waterings
25% intensity
Prefers dry conditions, susceptible to root rot.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Warm temperatures preferred
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 20-30°C, avoid frost.
Annual feeding
25% intensity
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot, especially in cooler months. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Prune only to remove old, brown, or damaged leaves. Cut leaves at the base of the stem. Avoid removing healthy green leaves as they are essential for photosynthesis. Do not prune the central growing point or the trunk.
Propagation is primarily by seed, which can be slow and challenging. Seeds require a period of stratification.
Alternatively, offsets (pups) that form at the base of mature plants can be carefully removed and potted up once they have developed their own root system.
Repot mature plants infrequently, only when they become severely root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, with added perlite.
Choose a pot that allows for ample root growth but is not excessively large.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Eastern Cape Dwarf Cycad (Encephalartos afer)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Cycadopsida |
| Order | Cycadales |
| Family | Zamiaceae |
| Genus | Encephalartos |
| Species | Encephalartos afer |
Similar in genus Encephalartos
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
