Encephalartos dyerianus

Lillie’s cycad is a slow-growing cycad with a dense crown of pale blue-green leaves. It is native to a small area of Limpopo, South Africa, where it grows on granite hillsides in open grassland and shrubland. Plant it in a bright, open position with excellent drainage and protect the crown from persistent wet soil. ## Form and setting The [SANBI species account](https://pza.sanbi.org/encephalartos-dyerianus) describes an unbranched aerial stem that may reach 5 m long, often leaning and producing basal suckers. Rigid leaves can reach 1.3 m long. Its wild population is restricted and the species is Critically Endangered. ## Siting and care SANBI reports that the species grows best in full sun, tolerates light shade and frost, and does poorly with excessive moisture. Use a freely draining mix and water thoroughly during growth only when the substrate has begun to dry. The South African Scientific Authority’s [non-detriment finding](https://www.sanbi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Encephalartos-dyerianus_Oct-2024.pdf) emphasizes the conservation risk from collecting; choose legally propagated stock and follow local requirements. ## Maintenance Keep the crown clear of wet debris and remove only dead leaves with clean tools. Leave healthy leaves in place, avoid routine root disturbance, and allow space for the mature stem and leaf canopy.