Encephalartos ferox "Xai Xai"
Wavy-Leafed Holly Cycad from Mozambique

Encephalartos ferox "Xai Xai" (pronounced "shy-shy") is a Mozambique form of Encephalartos ferox that had not yet been imported into the USA, prior to our seed import in 2003-4. Its original habitat is near the town of Xai Xai, not far from the Indian Ocean coast.

Encephalartos ferox "Xai Xai" has a wavy leaf form, not as flat as the South African forms, yet not curly. Mature Encephalartos ferox puts out a bright red cone. Its caudex is partly subterranean, but can grow to over three feet tall, and 10-12 inches diameter. Mature leaves grow to 3-6 feet in length, and are a highly glossy, dark green.