Umbeluzi Cycad
Encephalartos umbeluziensis
Also known as
Umbeluzi Broodboom, Broodboom (Afr.)
Full Shade
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
8a-11b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | Max | 2m |
1m | Min | 1m |
Umbeluzi Cycad Overview
Encephalartos umbeluziensis is commonly known as the Umbeluzi Cycad. It is a dwarf species indigenous to north-eastern Swaziland. It forms a subterranean stem and glossy dark-green leaves. Female plants tend to produce a single green cone, 25-30cm in length. Cones may become dark orange when they break open. Seeds are yellow to light brown. This is a common feature plant.
Common problems with Umbeluzi Cycad
How to harvest Umbeluzi Cycad
Harvest seed when they are mature and start to loosen from the cone.
How to propagate Umbeluzi Cycad
Seed
Naked seeds grow on female plants and need pollen from male plants to be fertile. Sow fresh fertile seeds in sandy soil and keep warm and moist. Germination can take 1-3 months.
Suckers
Allow suckers to grow attached to the motherplant for about two years until they have enough reserves to survive on their own. Remove with a clean cut and use flowers-of-sulphar to help the wounds to heal.
Special features of Umbeluzi Cycad
Pot plant
Indoor plant
Drought resistant
Attracts birds
Other uses of Umbeluzi Cycad
Ornamental
Edible
The Afrikaans name 'Broodboom' came from the traditional use of the pith as bread - note that Cycads is toxic and it needs a 3month fermentation process to break down those toxins!