Encephalartos horridus is spectacular with its wicked
looking blue leaves. The Blue Cycad is not as dangerous as it looks
though the leaves can scratch you up a bit. Encephalartos horridus
requires excellent drainage and is often best used as a container plant
where the soil can be controlled. This slow growing cycad has a
round base or head that slowly expands each year seemingly by only
fractions of an inch. New leaves are produced in the early
Spring. The new leaves are easily damaged by contact. Leaves
grow 18-36" long. Encephalartos horridus occasionally produces
pups and periodically exuberant cones. Plants do well in full sun or
light shade but will start to turn green in darker conditions.
Encephalartos horridus is native to South Africa. Plants are winter
hardy into the mid to low 20's, significant leaf damage starts at 25.
High resolution images
of Encephalartos horridus are available.
