CR

Kaapsehoop Cycad

Encephalartos laevifolius

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Encephalartos laevifolius faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, with mature plants commanding extremely high prices that drive continued poaching from wild populations. Habitat degradation through agricultural expansion and urban development has further reduced available suitable sites. The species' extremely slow growth rate and limited reproductive capacity make recovery from population losses exceptionally difficult, while climate change threatens to alter the specific microhabitat conditions this cycad requires.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cycad species inhabits rocky outcrops and steep slopes in coastal and inland areas of South Africa's Eastern Cape Province. It typically grows in well-drained soils among indigenous vegetation, often in areas with specific microclimatic conditions that provide protection from extreme weather.

Shrubland· majorGrassland· majorRocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies reintroductionLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Kaapsehoop Cycad classified as Critically Endangered?
Kaapsehoop Cycad is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Encephalartos laevifolius faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, with mature plants commanding extremely high prices that drive continued poaching from wild populations. Habitat degradation through agricultural expansion and urban development has further reduced available suitable sites. The species' extremely slow growth rate and limited reproductive capacity make recovery from population losses exceptionally difficult, while climate change threatens to alter the specific microhabitat conditions this cycad requires.
Where does Kaapsehoop Cycad live?
Kaapsehoop Cycad occurs in Brazil, Congo - Kinshasa, Eswatini, South Africa, United States, and Zimbabwe. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Kaapsehoop Cycad?
The main threats to Kaapsehoop Cycad are 2.2, 5.1, 5.1.1, and 5.3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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