Encephalartos Manikensis "Gorongo Cycad" 40Liter

Botanical Name: Encephalartos manikensis
Common Names: Gorongo Cycad, Manica Cycad

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📌 Product Description

Encephalartos manikensis, commonly known as the Gorongo Cycad, is a striking, medium to large cycad species native to Mozambique and parts of Zimbabwe. It is valued for its bold, slightly arching fronds that range from deep green to blue-green depending on light intensity and growing conditions.

This species forms a stout, textured trunk over time and produces dramatic flushes of new growth during the warm season. The rigid leaflets are arranged in a neat, symmetrical pattern, giving the plant a strong architectural presence.

A highly ornamental collector’s cycad suited to large containers or landscaped feature positions.

⚠ Please ensure compliance with South African cycad regulations regarding permits and legal trade, as Encephalartos species are protected.

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📏 Size When Fully Grown

Height: 2 – 4 m (over many years)
Trunk Diameter: Up to 40 cm+
Spread: 2 – 3 m
Growth Habit: Trunk-forming cycad
Growth Rate: Slow

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🌱 Best Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun to light partial shade
Soil: Very well-draining sandy or rocky soil
Water:

Moderate watering during spring and summer
Allow soil to dry between watering
Reduce watering in winter

Avoid waterlogging, especially around the crown.

Feeding: Apply specialised cycad fertiliser in spring and mid-summer.

Maintenance:

Remove old fronds carefully
Protect crown from excessive winter moisture
Ensure excellent drainage

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🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)

Best Planting Time: Spring to early summer
Active Growth: Spring and summer (new flushes)
Dormancy: Winter slowdown
Climate Suitability: Ideal for warm, frost-free or light frost regions
Frost Tolerance: Tolerates light frost; protect young plants from heavy frost

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🌼 Additional Benefits

Highly architectural focal plant
Long-lived and collectible
Drought tolerant once established
Suitable for large landscape statements
Adds tropical structure to gardens

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🌿 Ideal Uses

✔ Feature specimen plant
✔ Estate or formal landscapes
✔ Large containers
✔ Indigenous-style gardens
✔ Courtyard focal point