Encephalartos latifrons Green Hills

Encephalartos latifrons ‘Green Hills’ is a named form of the rare Albany cycad. The Green Hills form is described with smaller, more widely spaced leaflets than the Trapps Valley form, while retaining the species identity [Encephalartos latifrons](https://pza.sanbi.org/encephalartos-latifrons). ## Landscape Use Its glossy green crown makes a distinctive specimen among lower-growing plants. The [SANBI account](https://pza.sanbi.org/encephalartos-latifrons) describes the species’ stiff leaves and persistent skirt of old brown leaves, and notes that young plants can be grown in containers. It is exceptionally slow growing, so plan its permanent position carefully. ## Growing Conditions Choose full sun and sharply drained soil. In its Eastern Cape habitat the species grows on rocky hillsides and experiences cool winters without frost. SANBI reports that it does best in a cool, frost-free climate and does poorly in subtropical conditions. Keep drainage reliable and avoid high-pressure irrigation that can damage the crown. ## Maintenance Water young plants carefully while they establish, then avoid prolonged wet soil. Feed during active growth and remove only dead or damaged leaves; retain the named Green Hills identity when labeling because leaflet form differs among documented E. latifrons forms.