Cycads Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) Type G5, Single Trunk, 0.8-1.0 (Overall Height)
Cycas revoluta, commonly known as the Sago Palm, is a popular ornamental plant, though it's not a true palm. It belongs to the Cycadaceae family and is native to southern Japan. Cycas revoluta is often used in landscaping for its palm-like appearance and slow-growing, graceful form. Despite its ancient lineage dating back to prehistoric times, it has a modern, exotic appeal for both outdoor and indoor settings.
Key Features:
Growth Habit: Cycas revoluta is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 1-3 meters (3-10 feet) tall, but this may take many years. Its growth is typically characterized by a thick, woody, unbranched trunk topped with a crown of stiff, glossy, dark-green fronds.
Leaves: The leaves are pinnate (feather-like) and grow in a rosette pattern from the top of the trunk. Each leaf can be 50-150 cm (20-60 inches) long, with narrow, lance-shaped leaflets that are slightly curved. The leaves are stiff and leathery, giving the plant its characteristic "palm-like" look.
Trunk: The trunk of Cycas revoluta is thick and cylindrical, covered with a rough, fibrous texture. Over time, it may produce "pups" or offsets around the base, which can be removed and propagated.
Flowers: Cycas revoluta is a dioecious species, meaning there are separate male and female plants. Male plants produce elongated cones, while female plants develop a structure resembling a rosette, which holds seeds. However, these reproductive structures rarely form in cultivated plants, especially indoors.
Growing Conditions:
Light: Cycas revoluta thrives in bright, indirect light to full sun. Outdoors, it prefers a sunny location with some afternoon shade, especially in hot climates. Indoors, it should be placed near a bright window with plenty of natural light.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil, such as sandy or loamy soil, and does well in cactus or succulent potting mixes. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils that can cause root rot.
Watering: Water Cycas revoluta moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to ensure the soil drains well. During winter, when the plant is not actively growing, reduce the frequency of watering.
Temperature: The Sago Palm prefers warm temperatures between 15-30°C (60-85°F). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 10°C (50°F). In cooler climates, it is often grown as an indoor or patio plant.
Humidity: Cycas revoluta can tolerate a range of humidity levels but thrives in moderate to high humidity. If grown indoors in dry conditions, occasional misting can help maintain humidity levels.
Care and Maintenance:
Pruning: Pruning is minimal for Cycas revoluta. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves from the base of the plant, but avoid removing too many fronds at once, as the plant relies on them for photosynthesis.
Repotting: If grown in containers, repot every 3-4 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and use a well-draining potting mix. Repotting is best done in the spring.
Fertilizing: Fertilize Cycas revoluta during the growing season (spring and summer) with a slow-release fertilizer or a balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leaf burn.
Common Problems:
Overwatering: Sago palms are highly susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Ensure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Pests: Common pests include scale, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.
Leaf Yellowing: Yellowing fronds can result from nutrient deficiencies, especially magnesium or manganese. Treating the soil with a fertilizer that contains micronutrients can help prevent this.
Toxicity:
Toxicity: All parts of the Cycas revoluta plant, particularly the seeds, are highly toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains a neurotoxin called cycasin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, liver failure, and even death. It's important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.
Propagation:
Offsets (Pups): Cycas revoluta can be propagated by removing the offsets (pups) that form at the base of the plant. These pups can be carefully removed and planted in well-draining soil. Allow the offset to dry for a day or two before planting it to prevent rot.
Seeds: While Cycas revoluta can be propagated from seeds, this method is less common and takes a long time. Female plants produce seeds that can be collected and germinated in a warm, moist environment, but it may take several years for seedlings to mature.
*Disclaimer: The graphic is just meant to be used as a guide and illustration purposes. Actual product may varies depending on factors like age, height, and temperature, flowering and growing season. The actual product may differ in shape or appearance. Unless the buyer specifically requests a different pot, plants will be sent in plastic pots.
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