[3] It is native to Kenya and Tanzania at elevations from sea level to 600 metres (2,000 ft).

[4] The species is named for the German explorer Johann Maria Hildebrandt.

[5] These cycad species reach about 6 meters in height with a 30 cm diameter stem that is erect and lacks branches.

The leaves are found at the top of the stem in a crown formation and are supported by a tomentose petiole that is 1–7 cm long.

This species is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female specimens.