The genus name is derived from the Greek words en (within), kephalē (head), and artos (bread), referring to the use of the pith to make food.

[5] The whole genus is listed under CITES Appendix I which prohibits international trade in specimens of these species except for certain non-commercial motives, such as scientific research.

When the pollen has been shed and the males cones decay, a strong odour of acetic acid has also been noted.

[7] Colonies of the cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme occur in apparent symbiosis inside the root tissue,[7] while the rootlets produce root tubercles at ground level which harbour a mycorrhizal fungus of uncertain function,[7] which is however suspected to facilitate the capturing of nitrogen from the air.

The burial of the pith apparently facilitated its fermentation and softening,[7] and the dough was lightly roasted over a coal fire.

[9] In 1779 Paterson likewise found that the pith of a "large palm" near King William's Town was utilised by the Africans and Hottentots as bread.

[7] Vervet monkeys, rodents and birds also feed on the seeds, but due to their unpredictable toxic qualities they are not recommended for human consumption.

[8] The early larval instars of some aposematic, day-flying looper moths are specific to cycads, and genus Encephalartos is one of their food plants.