Cycas revoluta

A slow-growing, evergreen cycad that grows up to 2m.

Arching pinnate leaves up to 1.5m long, with over a hundred dark green leaflets. Large golden-brown inflorescences are produced in summer mostly seen on mature plants. Male flowers are pineapple scented. Female plants can produce ovoid yellow fruit.

Sago palms prefer partial to full shade in moist, humus-rich, free draining soil. If grown indoors, place in an area which receives bright light or a few hours of morning or afternoon sun.

Optimum planting time is late spring to early summer (October-November). Always choose healthy, well-grown plants. Be sure to plant sago palms slightly above the soil line and not in a depression that is "swampy". Sago palms much prefer to be on the dry side than the wet. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball, press in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. They need protection from full sun, strong winds and frost during the first few years after planting.

Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Plant with some general slow-release fertiliser and then every spring, apply organic fertiliser (such as blood and bone) at a handful per square metre.

Mulching helps conserve soil moisture, but make sure to keep mulch away from the plant stem. Water regularly for the first five years after planting or transplanting.

Unlike most plants, which wilt when dry or turn yellow from lack of fertiliser, cycads give little indication of when to water or feed. Generally, they should be treated like cacti and watered when almost dry. If grown in a container, allow the soil to become almost dry, then water thoroughly. If the plant receives morning or afternoon sun it may need to be watered at least weekly. Plants grown in low light or cool temperatures may need water every few weeks or so. It is advisable to water a plant twice; the first time wets the soil and the second watering (a few minutes) later soaks the soil. If planted in the garden, water when dry but do not keep continuously wet. Established plants can easily survive drought conditions.

Fertiliser is generally applied during spring and late summer. Sago palms growing in partial sun should receive an average fertiliser rate, whereas those in low light areas should receive 1/4 rate. Too little plant food is better than too much. If organic or slow-release fertiliser is used, do not allow any to fall into the plant crown, which protects the formation of future leaves. Old leaves may turn yellow if over watered or fertilised. No pruning is required except for the removal of old leaves.

Pest and disease free.

Rock Garden

While various species of cycads can be found throughout the world, the subtropical C. revoluta is native to Japan. An unusual and popular ornamental, Cycas revoluta is one of the most primitive living seed plants alive and has changed little over the last 200 million years. A rugged trunk topped with whorled feathery leaves resulted in the common name "Sago Palm". However, it is actually related to conifers and Ginkgo trees, which are cone-bearing plants related to the ancient flora of the early Mesozoic era.