Encephalartos villosus

Shrubs

A species of fast-growing, clump-forming dwarf, ornamental, shade-loving cycads with lush, spreading, glossy dark green foliage. Where the stems are above ground, plants reach around 4m in height. In the UK, they are generally grown as an exotic, ornamental or as part of a collection, performing best when grown in a conservatory or greenhouse, as a large houseplant, or outdoors in milder parts of the country

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Zamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets Harmful if eaten. See the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Temp S Africa

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in slightly acidic, gritty, free-draining soil in partial to full shade. Best grown in a conservatory or greenhouse or as a large houseplant. May be grown outside in summer, but should be lifted and moved to a sheltered, frost-free location during the winter

Propagation

Propagate by seed in summer or, in the rare cases where offsets are produced, these can be removed and rooted. Seed should be cleaned then soaked for 24 to 48 hours. Seeds often take several months to germinate

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required. Yellow or damaged fronds can be removed in early spring

Pests

Generally pest-free, but may be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs and vine weevil

Diseases

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to root rot, crown rot or fungal leaf spot