The taxonomy of Encephalartos hildebrandtii originally brought together a number of scattered populations of somewhat questionable relationship. Plants from the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda are now treated as two separate species: E. ituriensis and E. whitelockii. The distinction between Melville's two varieties of E. hildebrandtii - hildebrandtii and dentatus - was based solely on cone characteristics. There is general agreement that the differences are minor and hence the two varieties are no longer recognized.

Encephalartos hildebrandtii is widespread with relatively large subpopulations. However, subpopulations have been destroyed on Zanzibar and along the coast due to urban and tourism developments and expanding agricultural activities. It is estimated that there are well over 30 locations (Q. Luke pers. comm.). Previously it was listed as Near Threatened, but this species is now considered to be Least Concern as it has a large extent of occurrence with several relatively large subpopulations. The species is also not considered to be fragmented and the number of locations further strengthens the assessment as Least Concern. The listed area of occupancy (AOO) is relatively small (would qualify for Endangered) however this species occurs regularly across the known distribution range and the AOO figure could be substantially higher if all subpopulations are referenced.

Encephalrtos hildebrandtii occurs in the coastal and near-coastal districts of Kenya and Tanzania including Zanzibar island (Tanzania). Subpopulations are found from the Lindi administrative region, Tanzania in the south to Garissa and Lamu counties, Kenya in the north. Reports of similar cycads from northern Mozambique may also turn out to be E. hildebrandtii. Plants are found from sea level up to 600 m asl.

This species occurs in many localities, and is locally abundant in places. The population size is estimated to be about 20,000 mature individuals.

It is mainly found in coastal evergreen bushland and dry lowland forest, in red loams and sandy soils among grass and coral rocks. This species appears to need shade for successful germination.

Habitat destruction as a result of urban expansion, coastal resort development, and agricultural expansion is having a direct impact on the species. Former large subpopulations of the species have been lost as result, but no reliable data to quantify this loss are available.

In times of famine, the stems have reportedly been used for food in Zanzibar, although it is more likely the seeds that are used, as is the case in northern Kenya (the central pith of the stem and the endosperm from the seeds is used to prepare a starchy form of bread). This species like all cycads is highly sought after in the horticulture trade. In addition, some plants are removed from the wild and sold to local hotel developers.

Use of seeds as famine food in northern Kenya has in the past been shown to lead to a high incidence of liver cancer in the Boni people.

This species like all cycads is highly sought after in the horticulture trade. In addition, some plants are removed from the wild and sold to local hotel developers.

It has been recorded from a number of protected areas including: Jozani Forest Reserve on Zanzibar, Saadani National Park, one locality within Gendagenda South Forest Reserve, and one locality within Amani Nature Forest Reserve (all Tanzania); and two localities within Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve (Kenya). Plants are also found in Boni National Reserve, Kenya. This species is listed in CITES Appendix I and is well represented in botanical gardens and private collections worldwide. An education and awareness programme as well as the long-term monitoring of populations will support the conservation of this species.