Cycas revoluta

Cycas revoluta

Sago Palm

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Taxonomy

Family Cycadaceae · Genus Cycas

Common Names

Sago PalmKing SagoJapanese Sago Palm

Context

nativeRegion

Southern Japan (Ryukyu Islands, Kyushu, and southern China).

usdaZones

USDA zones 9–11.

companionPlants

Palms, Ferns, Agaves, Bromeliads

culturalUses

Ornamental plant in landscapes and containers; symbolically important in Japanese gardens.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun. Adapts to partial shade.

WateringAllow soil to dry between waterings; water sparingly, especially in winter.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or loamy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH.

FertilizerFeed with balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).

HumidityTolerates average to moderate humidity; benefits from occasional misting in dry indoor air.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 16-24°C (60-75°F); protect from frost.

HabitEvergreen, woody cycad with a rosette of stiff, glossy pinnate leaves.

Mature SizeUp to 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) tall; width similar to height in outdoor landscapes.

Growth RateSlow-growing; takes several years to reach maturity.

BloomingDioecious (separate male and female plants); produces cone-like structures, but rarely flowers indoors.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows significantly in winter months.

MethodsOffsets (pups), Seeds

DifficultyModerate; seed propagation is slow and germination is erratic, while offsets are easier.

Best SeasonLate spring to early summer, when offsets can be separated and seeds have higher viability.

PruningRemove old or yellowed fronds at the base to maintain appearance; avoid cutting the trunk.

RepottingRepot every 3-4 years or when rootbound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to scale, mealybugs, and root rot if overwatered; watch for manganese deficiency (yellowing of new leaves).

ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested; all parts contain cycasin, especially seeds.

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