Sago Palm Plant Info

Sago palm is an ornamental plant that resembles a palm tree but is actually a cycad. It has long, stiff, glossy green fronds that grow from a central trunk often covered with brown hairlike fibers. The plant produces large, cone-like structures containing seeds, but it does not flower or fruit. 

Cycas revoluta
Sago palm
King sago
Cycad palm
Sago cycad
Japanese sago
Dwarf sago palm
Silver sago palm
Variegated sago palm
Malayan sago palm
Dark green fronds that contrast with its brown trunk and cones

Water

Water regularly during the growing season (spring to fall). The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

Sunlight

The plant thrives in bright but indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sun in the morning or evening but not during the hottest part of the day.

Soil

Sago palm prefers well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. If you're growing the plant indoors, blend one part peat moss, one part perlite, and one part sand or vermiculite to create an ideal growing medium. You can also use cacti or succulent potting mix.

Fertilizer

Although it's a slow-growing plant, it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied once or twice a year in spring or summer. The dressing should be diluted to half the recommended strength and watered into the soil.

Pruning

Remove dead, damaged, or diseased fronds during late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Propagation

Fairly easy to propagate; by seed or division.

Thrives in

Bright but indirect light, moist well-drained soil, and moderate temperatures.

Toxicity

Sago palm contains cycasin, which can cause liver failure, neurological damage, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or death if ingested. The seeds are the most poisonous part of the plant, but all parts are toxic. It's best to keep it away from children and pets.

Pests & Diseases

Scale insects
Mealybugs
Spider mites
Root rot

Landscaping Ideas

Specimen
Borders
Group planting in a mass or a cluster
Xeriscaping

Last Updated: October 1, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.