About
Cycas revoluta, the Japanese sago palm, is a slow-growing, palm-like, evergreen cycad to around 2 m tall � one of the most widely grown of all cycads � with a stout, rough-barked trunk topped by a crown of arching, feather-like fronds to 1.5 m long composed of many narrow, glossy, dark-green leaflets. Golden-brown, ovoid, cone-like inflorescences are produced on mature plants. One of the most architectural and enduring of all specimen plants.
About the genus
Cycas, the sago palms, are evergreen, dioecious cycads with stout, woody trunks bearing large, leathery, pinnate leaves in a terminal rosette; male inflorescences are large, cone-like structures, while female ones consist of modified leaves. Among the most ancient and architecturally dramatic of all plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typePalms, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Patio and container plants
Native toFar East
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets (dogs, cats) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with additional leaf mould and grit; provide full light with shade from hot sun and moderate humidity. Water moderately in the growing season, sparingly at other times. Alternatively in frost free areas, grow in a moist but well-drained soil in bright light with some protection from full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or suckers
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free outdoors, but may be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free