PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense desert sunlight but benefits from light shade during extreme midday heat
Watering
Water deeply once weekly in growing season; allow soil to fully dry between waterings to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to light frost; avoid prolonged temperatures below -5°C; thrives in warm, arid conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Blue-grey rigid pinnate fronds up to 1.5 m long, with sharp, pointed leaflets
- Cone: Male cones are cylindrical and brown; female cones are ovoid, larger in size
- Trunk: Short, stout, covered with persistent dried leaf bases
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply when top 10 cm of soil is completely dry
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer once monthly. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for cycads to support frond growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost soil calcium levels; avoid direct contact with the plant's root crownPruning
- Remove brown, dead fronds at the base to maintain a tidy appearance and improve airflow
- Trim damaged or broken leaflets to prevent pest infestations
- Avoid cutting healthy fronds, as cycads grow slowly and regenerate foliage gradually
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; contains cycasin which can cause liver failure, seizures, and death
Humans: Contains cycasin; ingestion may cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and liver damage
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental xeriscaping plant; prehistoric garden specimen
