Cycadaceae
Cycas revoluta
Bring a resort-quality look to your space with Cycas revoluta. Its sculptural trunk and perfectly arched fronds create an instant focal point—ideal for receptions, entrances, and premium patio planters. Slow-growing, durable, and naturally tidy, this cycad delivers high impact with low maintenance. (Note: toxic if ingested—place away from pets and children.)
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Sago Palm
Botanical Name: Cycas revoluta
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Cycad
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0128
Alternative Names:
سيكاس
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Genus: Cycas
Species: revoluta
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to southern Japan, particularly the Ryukyu Islands of Kyushu and neighboring smaller islands. Widely cultivated as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide; naturalized in parts of Florida, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia.
4. Visual Characteristics
A slow-growing, evergreen gymnosperm with a single erect, stout trunk topped by a crown of pinnate fronds. Fronds arch gracefully, 1–2 m long, each composed of 100–200 stiff, lanceolate leaflets that are glossy dark green above and lighter beneath. Young plants form a basal rosette of shorter fronds; texture is feathery yet sculptural.
5. Size & Dimensions
Indoors, typically reaches 1–2 m in height with a trunk diameter of 10–15 cm; outdoors over decades can attain 4–7 m tall. Fronds span 1–2 m in length and up to 0.3 m wide. Growth rate is very slow, often less than 10 cm of trunk height per year.
6. Light Requirements
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Indoors, place in bright indirect light or where it receives morning or late afternoon sun. Insufficient light leads to slow growth and pale leaflets; intense midday sun in very hot climates may scorch new fronds.
7. Watering Needs
Drought-tolerant once established. Water thoroughly, then allow the top 5–7 cm of soil to dry out before the next watering. Overwatering can cause root rot; reduce frequency in winter. In containers, ensure excess water drains freely and never let the pot sit in a saucer of water.
8. Soil & Potting
Requires a well-draining mix—ideal medium is 40% loam, 40% coarse sand or perlite, 20% peat or compost. Soil pH 6.0–7.5. Repot only every 3–5 years to avoid root disturbance; use a container with good drainage.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature range is 15–30 °C. Tolerates brief dips to 5 °C but prolonged cold below 0 °C can damage foliage and roots. Prefers moderate humidity but adapts to typical indoor levels. Avoid placement near cold drafts or heating vents.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) in spring and mid-summer. Alternatively, feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Ensure micronutrients—especially magnesium and iron—are present to prevent chlorosis.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Low maintenance. Remove yellowing or damaged fronds at the base. Occasionally wipe fronds to remove dust. Inspect regularly for pests and treat promptly. Pruning requirements are minimal due to slow growth.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagation is primarily by seed, which requires scarification and warm, moist conditions for germination (often 1–3 months). Rarely, basal suckers (pups) form on mature specimens—these can be separated and potted once they have developed a small root system. Use sterile, well-draining media.
13. Common Problems
Susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids. Overwatering leads to root rot and fungal issues. Nutrient deficiencies manifest as yellowing leaflets (iron or magnesium chlorosis). Cold damage causes blackened frond tips; excessive sun can scorch young leaves.
14. Benefits & Uses
Highly valued for its architectural form as a focal point in landscapes, lobbies, and patios. Provides a tropical, sculptural accent with low maintenance needs. Historically, starch from seeds was processed for food (after extensive detoxification). Long-lived and drought-tolerant.
15. Toxicity & Safety
All parts contain cycasin and BMAA, neurotoxic and hepatotoxic compounds. Ingestion by humans or animals can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, liver failure, and neurological symptoms. Wear gloves when handling; keep away from children and pets and dispose of trimmings safely.
Cycas revoluta
Bring a resort-quality look to your space with Cycas revoluta. Its sculptural trunk and perfectly arched fronds create an instant focal point—ideal for receptions, entrances, and premium patio planters. Slow-growing, durable, and naturally tidy, this cycad delivers high impact with low maintenance. (Note: toxic if ingested—place away from pets and children.)
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Sago Palm
Botanical Name: Cycas revoluta
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Cycad
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0128
Alternative Names:
سيكاس
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Genus: Cycas
Species: revoluta
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to southern Japan, particularly the Ryukyu Islands of Kyushu and neighboring smaller islands. Widely cultivated as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide; naturalized in parts of Florida, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia.
4. Visual Characteristics
A slow-growing, evergreen gymnosperm with a single erect, stout trunk topped by a crown of pinnate fronds. Fronds arch gracefully, 1–2 m long, each composed of 100–200 stiff, lanceolate leaflets that are glossy dark green above and lighter beneath. Young plants form a basal rosette of shorter fronds; texture is feathery yet sculptural.
5. Size & Dimensions
Indoors, typically reaches 1–2 m in height with a trunk diameter of 10–15 cm; outdoors over decades can attain 4–7 m tall. Fronds span 1–2 m in length and up to 0.3 m wide. Growth rate is very slow, often less than 10 cm of trunk height per year.
6. Light Requirements
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Indoors, place in bright indirect light or where it receives morning or late afternoon sun. Insufficient light leads to slow growth and pale leaflets; intense midday sun in very hot climates may scorch new fronds.
7. Watering Needs
Drought-tolerant once established. Water thoroughly, then allow the top 5–7 cm of soil to dry out before the next watering. Overwatering can cause root rot; reduce frequency in winter. In containers, ensure excess water drains freely and never let the pot sit in a saucer of water.
8. Soil & Potting
Requires a well-draining mix—ideal medium is 40% loam, 40% coarse sand or perlite, 20% peat or compost. Soil pH 6.0–7.5. Repot only every 3–5 years to avoid root disturbance; use a container with good drainage.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature range is 15–30 °C. Tolerates brief dips to 5 °C but prolonged cold below 0 °C can damage foliage and roots. Prefers moderate humidity but adapts to typical indoor levels. Avoid placement near cold drafts or heating vents.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) in spring and mid-summer. Alternatively, feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Ensure micronutrients—especially magnesium and iron—are present to prevent chlorosis.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Low maintenance. Remove yellowing or damaged fronds at the base. Occasionally wipe fronds to remove dust. Inspect regularly for pests and treat promptly. Pruning requirements are minimal due to slow growth.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagation is primarily by seed, which requires scarification and warm, moist conditions for germination (often 1–3 months). Rarely, basal suckers (pups) form on mature specimens—these can be separated and potted once they have developed a small root system. Use sterile, well-draining media.
13. Common Problems
Susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids. Overwatering leads to root rot and fungal issues. Nutrient deficiencies manifest as yellowing leaflets (iron or magnesium chlorosis). Cold damage causes blackened frond tips; excessive sun can scorch young leaves.
14. Benefits & Uses
Highly valued for its architectural form as a focal point in landscapes, lobbies, and patios. Provides a tropical, sculptural accent with low maintenance needs. Historically, starch from seeds was processed for food (after extensive detoxification). Long-lived and drought-tolerant.
15. Toxicity & Safety
All parts contain cycasin and BMAA, neurotoxic and hepatotoxic compounds. Ingestion by humans or animals can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, liver failure, and neurological symptoms. Wear gloves when handling; keep away from children and pets and dispose of trimmings safely.