PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright direct to partial sun; full sun supports cone production, while partial shade prevents leaf scorch in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 10–15 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–30°C; tolerate brief light frost but avoid prolonged temperatures below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnate, stiff dark green fronds up to 2 m long; sharp-tipped leaflets
- Stem: Thick cylindrical trunk covered with persistent, fibrous leaf bases
- Reproductive Structures: Elongated brown male cones; large globular female cones with orange seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Apply slow-release cycad fertilizer once. Use fertilizer low in nitrogen to prevent soft, vulnerable growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp on soil surface and gently work into top layer to boost calcium levelsPruning
- Remove brown, dead fronds at the base to improve airflow and appearance
- Trim damaged leaf tips with clean shears to prevent fungal spread
- Avoid cutting healthy fronds as cycads grow very slowly and replace foliage infrequently
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; cycasin causes liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures
Humans: Contains cycasin; ingestion causes abdominal pain, vomiting, and potential long-term liver damage
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental landscape plant; seeds used in traditional medicine (toxic raw, requires processing)
