Contents
Description
Encephalartos Kisambo is a species of cycad native to Kenya. It belongs to the Encephalartos genus, which is part of the cycad family Zamiaceae. This species is dioecious, meaning that it has separate male and female plants. The male plants produce cones that are cylindrical in shape, while the female plants produce cones that are more rounded. The cones are typically green in color, but can also be yellow or reddish-brown. Encephalartos Kisambo is known for its long lifespan, which can reach up to hundreds of years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Cycadophyta |
| Class | Cycadopsida |
| Order | Cycadales |
| Family | Zamiaceae |
| Genus | Encephalartos |
| Species | Encephalartos Kisambo |
Appearance
Encephalartos Kisambo has a stout trunk that can reach up to 4 meters in height and 30-40 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are pinnate and can grow up to 2 meters long. They are arranged in a rosette formation at the top of the trunk. The leaflets are narrow and pointed, with a glossy green color. The male cones are typically 20-30 centimeters long, while the female cones are smaller, around 15-20 centimeters long.
Care Guide
Encephalartos Kisambo requires well-draining soil and regular watering. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely, but also not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization should be done sparingly, with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. This species prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Encephalartos Kisambo is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticides or by removing affected leaves. Diseases that can affect this species include root rot, fungal infections, and viral infections. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Encephalartos Kisambo is native to Kenya, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It can also be found in cultivation in other parts of the world, particularly in botanical gardens and private collections.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Encephalartos Kisambo a rare species?
A: Yes, Encephalartos Kisambo is considered a rare species and is listed as endangered by the IUCN.
Q: Can Encephalartos Kisambo be grown indoors?
A: While Encephalartos Kisambo can be grown indoors, it requires a lot of light and space, and is better suited for outdoor cultivation in warmer climates.
Q: Does Encephalartos Kisambo produce edible fruit?
A: No, Encephalartos Kisambo does not produce edible fruit.
Q: How often should Encephalartos Kisambo be fertilized?
A: Encephalartos Kisambo should be fertilized once a year in the spring, using a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Related Plants
- Encephalartos ferox
- Encephalartos horridus
- Encephalartos natalensis
- Encephalartos princeps
- Encephalartos woodii
References
- “Encephalartos Kisambo.” The Cycad Pages, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, 2021, http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/cycadpg?taxname=Encephalartos+kisambo.
- “Encephalartos Kisambo.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, International Union for Conservation of Nature, 2010, https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41949/10541167.
- Osborne, Roy. “Growing Encephalartos Kisambo.” The Cycad Society, 2021, http://www.cycadsociety.org/kisambo.html.
