Description

General aspect and origins - Cycas revoluta, also known as king sago palm or simply sago palm, is a plant which is native to Nansei and Ryukyu islands in Japon, and to Southeastern China. It is usually 3 to 10 ft tall, and can sometimes reach up to 20 ft (6 m) tall. It is a long lived plant, and one of the most widely grown Cycas.
Leaves - Leaves are deep green (young leaves being paler and more tender), and up to 3-5 ft (0,9 - 1,5 m) long. These feathery leaves look like fern leaves.
Flowers - The sago palm produces cones. As Cycads are dioecious, both female and male plants are needed to get seeds.

Culture

The sago palm can withstand brief frosts down to about 15°F (-9 to -10°C)
Soil - The sago palm needs a well-drained ground.

Propagation

The sago palm can be propagated by seeds, or by rooting the offshoots that occasionaly appear at the base of the mother plant. If propagated by seeds, it is advised to soak them in water for several days before sowing ; it will accelerate germination, which will require a few months.