PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerate dappled shade in extreme summer heat
Watering
Water deeply when top 10–15 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Tolerates mild frosts down to 5°C; thrives in warm temperate climates
Characteristics
- Leaf: Long, stiff pinnate fronds (1–2 m) with sharp, dark green leathery leaflets
- Cones: Slender cylindrical male cones; large ovoid female cones with brown, woody scales
- Trunk: Thick, rough brown trunk; may branch with mature age
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; increase frequency during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus slow-release fertilizer once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilizing, as cycads have low nutrient requirements
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in to release calcium without risking nutrient burnPruning
- Remove dead or damaged fronds at the base to maintain tidy appearance
- Trim yellowing leaflets to prevent fungal spread
- Avoid cutting healthy fronds, as cycads grow slowly and fronds have long lifespans
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; ingestion leads to liver failure, seizures, and potential fatality
Humans: Contains cycasin, a hepatotoxic compound; ingestion causes liver damage with large doses
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; traditionally used as food by Indigenous Australians after extensive seed processing to remove toxins
