South Africa is one of the global hotspots for cycad diversity. Cycads, which date back 280 million years, have a trunk, leaves and cones, all of which are covered with stiff, sharp spines. Unfortunately, cycad poaching and trade has led to these plants being poached and illegally traded. Thus the indigenous Encephalartos species is protected under provincial legislation and NEMBA (National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004). The species is also listed in CITES Appendix II, thus trading is controlled, and various permits are needed for activities related to cycads, including buying and selling cycads or part of cycads.