Encephalartos equatorialis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encephalartos_equatorialis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Encephalartos equatorialis faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, where mature specimens command extremely high prices among cycad collectors. The species' extremely limited population size and restricted range in Uganda's montane forests make it particularly vulnerable to over-harvesting. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and charcoal production in the Rwenzori Mountains region further threatens the remaining wild populations.
Habitat
This cycad species inhabits montane forest edges and grassland transitions in the Rwenzori Mountains of western Uganda, typically occurring at elevations between 1,200-2,000 meters. It grows in well-drained soils on rocky slopes and forest clearings where it receives partial sunlight.
