About
Dioon spinulosum, the giant dioon, is a large, imposing, palm-like cycad from Mexico producing a tall, stout stem and a rosette of long, arching, feather-like leaves to 2 m, each composed of many spiny-tipped, narrow leaflets. One of the tallest of all cycads in cultivation, making a spectacular specimen for a frost-free garden or very large heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Dioon are dioecious, palm-like cycads from Mexico and Central America with stout stems bearing a terminal rosette of large, leathery, pinnately divided leaves and large, woolly female cones or smaller, cylindrical male cones. Architectural and long-lived plants for frost-free gardens and heated glasshouses.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead or damaged growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.