PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; protect from scorching midday sun in hot climates; tolerate bright indirect light in large indoor containers
Watering
Allow the top 5–10 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates short periods of mild frost (down to 5°C); prefers warm temperate to subtropical growing conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnate fronds 1.5–2.5 m long; dark green, rigid leaflets with sharp, pointed tips
- Cone: Male cones are cylindrical (30–60 cm long); female cones are ovoid (40–70 cm long)
- Trunk: Thick, rough brown trunk covered in persistent dried leaf bases
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen slow-release fertilizer once every 2 months. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can damage the cycad's slow-growing root system
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons around the base of the plant; avoid direct contact with exposed roots to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove dead, brown fronds at the base to improve airflow and appearance
- Trim damaged or yellowed leaflets to prevent pest infestations
- Avoid cutting healthy fronds, as cycads grow slowly and cannot regrow lost foliage quickly
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and potential fatality
Humans: Contains cycasin, a carcinogenic toxin; ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress and liver damage
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental specimen in botanical gardens; critically endangered conservation species
