Encephalartos kisambo — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Encephalartos kisambo

Encephalartos Kisambo

Updated · 36 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Encephalartos kisambo is a species of cycad in the family Zamiaceae. It is native to Kenya and Tanzania. It is known as the Voi cycad.This species is distributed in the cloud forests of the steep mountain hills at the border of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Most grow in misty forest habitat, and some grow on drier rock cliffsides. Some subpopulations are threatened by habitat loss to charcoal production and agriculture, and the species is threatened by overcollection.

A note from PlantMom

Voi cycad is resistant to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens usually do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be pruned after they have bloomed. Voi cycad is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Encephalartos Kisambo.

Light

The voi cycad does best with plentiful direct sunlight, which greatly supports its vigorous growth. In its native environment it prospers beneath clear skies. At every stage of development steady sun exposure is necessary. Too much or too little light can produce stunted growth or yellowing leaves, respectively.

Water

The voi cycad, native to arid regions, thrives with little water and has a high tolerance for drought. You should water it every 1-2 weeks, reducing the frequency during cooler months. As an evergreen plant, it retains its foliage throughout the year and is usually cultivated outdoors because of its size.

Humidity

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Temperature

The Voi cycad originates from areas where temperatures usually fall between 68 and 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). Preferably, the plant does best toward the warmer end of that spectrum. Care adjustments, such as providing shade or extra moisture, may be necessary with seasonal changes.

Fertilizer

The Voi cycad has specific nutrient needs and does not require heavy fertilization. Spring is the best time to apply fertilizer for optimal growth. Providing nutrients enhances its health, increases its resistance to pests and diseases, and supports its long lifespan.

Pruning

The Voi cycad is a slow-growing, palm-like plant known for its thick green fronds. To promote airflow and prevent disease, it is best to prune the plant during its winter dormancy. Using clean cuts and sterilized tools is crucial for maintaining the cycad's health. Regular pruning not only enhances its appearance but also encourages new growth in the following season.

Pot & Repot

Repot your cycad every 2-3 years during the warmer seasons. Select a spacious container to accommodate its robust root system, and use well-draining soil. After repotting, water the plant adequately, but avoid over-saturating the soil. Place it in a spot with partial sun exposure to ensure optimal recovery.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Encephalartos
Family
Zamiaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
1.22 m to 2.13 m
Mature Spread
46 cm to 52 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Fall
Native Area
Kenya
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Voi cycad
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

How should I water my Voi cycad plant?

Watering your Voi cycad is quite simple as it isn't too particular about the method you use. Whether you have a watering can, hose, or even a cup, just about any common watering tool will do the job. The important thing is to apply the water directly to the soil, making sure to evenly moisten all areas. To ensure the best results, it's helpful to use filtered water, as tap water may contain harmful particles. Additionally, using water at or slightly above room temperature is ideal, as extremes in temperature can be a bit shocking for the Voi cycad. Nonetheless, this versatile plant typically responds well to any type of water you give it.

How much sunlight does the Voi cycad need to grow?

Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants are well-suited to areas with strong and direct sunlight, as they need this light to flourish. In their natural habitats, they tend to grow in open fields or along forest edges, where they can enjoy abundant sunlight all day long.

What is the best temperature for a Voi cycad plant?

To help your tropical plants thrive, it's best to maintain a temperature range of 75℉ to 90℉ (25-32℃). While different species can tolerate temperatures outside this range, sticking within a few degrees of these limits will ensure optimal growth. However, there are extreme temperature limits to be aware of. Anything below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) can hinder growth and cause issues with the leaves and stems. Low temperatures are particularly damaging, as even a light frost can lead to the death of your tropical plants. In fact, cellular death can occur rapidly, with some species dying within 12 to 24 hours.

What should I do if I give my Voi cycad too much or too little water?

Outdoor plants, especially newly planted ones or seedlings, are prone to not getting enough water. It's important to remember to consistently water them for a few months while they are small or recently planted. Once the roots are established, Voi cycad plants can rely mostly on rain. When Voi cycad plants are in pots, overwatering is more likely. If you accidentally overwater your Voi cycad, you should act promptly to fix the situation. Stop watering the plant immediately to minimize the impact of overwatering. Then, remove the Voi cycad from its pot to inspect the roots. If there is no root rot, you can return the plant to its container. However, if you find any signs of root rot, trim away the affected roots and possibly use a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, repot the Voi cycad in well-draining soil. In the case of underwatering, simply water the Voi cycad more frequently. It is usually an easy problem to fix. If the plant has been underwatered, its leaves will droop, dry out, and fall off. However, once it is properly watered, the leaves will quickly regain fullness. It's important to adjust your watering frequency as soon as you notice underwatering.

What happens if Voi cycad doesn't get enough sunlight?

Tropical ornamental plants that need full sun may face issues if they don't receive enough sunlight. They might become leggy and weak, and their leaves could turn yellow or pale. Furthermore, they may stop producing flowers. Ultimately, if these plants continue to lack the required amount of direct sunlight, there is a possibility that they may die.

Does the Voi cycad need different temperatures for different stages of growth?

To ensure proper growth and prevent setbacks, it is crucial to maintain a consistent temperature for Voi cycad. Drastic temperature changes can negatively impact its growth at any stage. Therefore, it is recommended to keep Voi cycad in a controlled environment. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃), with the lower limit being more important to uphold. While temperatures exceeding 90℉ (32℃) are not ideal, Voi cycad, being a tropical plant, can tolerate such conditions reasonably well. However, temperatures below 50℉ (10℃), and especially below 40℉ (5℃), can directly harm this species, which thrives in heat.

How frequently should I water my Voi cycad?

To properly care for most outdoor plants, they can usually rely on rainfall for watering. However, if there is a lack of rainfall in your area, you should make sure to give your plants enough water every two weeks in the spring and fall. In the summer, when plants need more water, you will need to water them more frequently. During the winter, when growth is slower and plants require less water, it is best to water them sparingly or not at all. Young or newly planted Voi cycad plants should be watered more often to help them establish and grow into more adaptable and drought-tolerant plants. When it comes to potted plants, there are two main ways to determine how often to water your Voi cycad. One way is to have a set watering schedule, such as once a week or once every other week. However, this may not always be effective as it doesn't consider the specific growing conditions of your Voi cycad. Another approach is to water based on the moisture of the soil. Generally, it's best to wait until the top two to four inches of soil (about one-third to half the depth of the pot) have completely dried out before giving more water. Keep in mind that during the summer, your cycad will need more frequent watering than a scheduled routine may provide.

What will happen if the Voi cycad is exposed to too much sunlight?

Tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun require ample direct sunlight, but excessive exposure to intense sunlight can harm them. Prolonged periods of direct sunlight can cause sunburned leaves or the development of unsightly brown spots. Additionally, if the soil dries out too rapidly in full sun, these plants may become dehydrated.

Does the Voi cycad require varying temperatures for each season?

The Voi cycad does not require different temperatures for different seasons, but it is important to maintain the optimum temperature range for its care. This is why it is recommended to keep this plant indoors, where you have control over the temperature regardless of the outdoor climate. In addition, light is crucial for tropical species like this plant. It is best to provide them with partial side-level sun exposure, meaning the light should be dappled or filtered. Bright but indirect light is the ideal option when growing these plants indoors, as too much direct sunlight can harm the leaves and limit their growth potential.

How much water does my Voi cycad plant need?

Watering your Voi cycad may be a bit different than you expect. Instead of needing a lot of water, you can keep it healthy with just a few inches of dried soil between waterings. Aim to give it around five to ten ounces of water each time. To determine the right amount, check how much soil has dried out. If more than half has dried out, give it more water until you see excess draining from the pot's holes. If your Voi cycad is outside and it's raining regularly, it may not need extra watering. When it's young, give it 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it grows, it can rely on rainwater most of the time, but if there's a hot spell without rain for 2-3 weeks, give it a full watering to prevent stress.

How can you keep Voi cycad safe from too much sunlight?

To protect tropical ornamental plants that thrive in full sun, it's important to find a spot with ample direct sunlight but some shield from the intense midday heat. If you're growing these plants in containers, you can move them to a shadier area during the hottest hours to shield them from excessive sunlight. Another option is to offer shade using a shade cloth or umbrella during the peak heat of the day.

What temperature should I keep my Voi cycad plant at to keep it healthy?

Here are three tips to help you take care of your plants: 1. Keep your plants away from windows during colder months: Cold air can leak into your home through cracks in the windows, and any plants placed near them will be affected. Move tropical plants to an area with bright but indirect light, while avoiding potential drafts. 2. Watch out for dry patches, which may indicate too much sunlight or heat: If you notice white or scorched leaves, your plant may be getting too much heat or sunlight. This can lead to dehydration and hinder growth. Dry spots can spread and eventually cause your plants to die if left unaddressed. 3. Be cautious of frost: Colder temperatures and frost can damage plants by disrupting their water circulation. This can lead to a lack of moisture in the stems and leaves. Look out for signs of hydrosis (a water-soaked appearance) and if the issue persists, the plant may shrivel and turn dark brown or black, eventually leading to death.

PLATES
Encephalartos kisambo leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Encephalartos kisambo leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Encephalartos kisambo flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Encephalartos kisambo flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Encephalartos kisambo fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Encephalartos kisambo fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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