Genus guide
Encephalartos — 34 species
Part of the Cycads family (Cycadophyta)
Encephalartos are ancient African cycads — slow-growing, palm-like plants with stiff, arching fronds and stout trunks prized by collectors and botanic gardens. Species such as the Natal Cycad, Karoo Cycad, and Thunberg's Cycad tolerate full sun to bright filtered light and are highly drought-tolerant once established; overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Allow the soil to dry significantly between waterings, and use a sharply draining mix. All Encephalartos species are toxic to cats and dogs — cycasin and related compounds can cause severe liver damage and are potentially fatal even in small amounts.
All Encephalartos species we cover
- Albany Cycad
- Barter's Cycad
- Blue Cycad
- Bread Tree Cycad
- Breadtree
- Bush Cycad
- Cameroon Cycad
- Cardboard Cycad
- Congo Cycad
- Drakensberg Cycad
- Dwarf Cycad
- Dyer's Cycad
- Eastern Cape Blue Cycad
- Eastern Cape Cycad
- Eastern Cape Cycad
- Encephalartos Ferox
- Encephalartos lebomboensis
- Encephalartos transvenosus
- Encephalartos Villosus
- Grigua Cycad
- Kaapsehoop Cycad
- Karoo Cycad
- Manica Cycad
- Mombasa Cycad
- Mpumalanga Cycad
- Mulanje Cycad
- Natal Cycad
- Pogge's Cycad
- Prickly Cycad
- Schmitz's Cycad
- Tete Cycad
- Thunberg's Cycad
- Waterberg Cycad
- Wood's Cycad
Encephalartos — frequently asked questions
Are Encephalartos plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Encephalartos are not pet-safe. Of the 34 Encephalartos species in the Growli library, 34 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Encephalartos plants need?
Most Encephalartos do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Encephalartos easy to care for?
Some Encephalartos suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Encephalartos varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 34 Encephalartos species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Encephalartos, the rest follow closely.
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