Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
12b
USDA zone
13°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
6m | Max | 4m |
1m | Min | 1m |
More images of Cycas
Cycas Overview
This genus is characterised by around 15 slow-growing evergreen, woody-stemmed perennial species. They are favoured for their palm-like appearance and won’t survive below 10ºC. They typically have whorls of pinnate, leathery leaves that are stiff and linear or sickle-shaped. From the centres of the leaf rosettes arise dioecious inflorescences – large cone-like male structures covered in woolly hairs, or loosely arranged modified leaves with ovules at the margins, which represent the female inflorescence. Most species in this genus are listed as threatened. They originate from India and are an evolutionarily old genus, dominant worldwide during the Jurassic and Cretaceous time periods. Many fewer species are present today and these are localised around the equator.
Common problems with Cycas
Susceptible to damage from chemical pesticides (use soap or biological controls).
How to propagate Cycas
Suckers
Remove and pot up suckers in spring.
Seed
You can propagate in the spring by seeds or suckers taken from mature plants.
Special features of Cycas
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Cycas
Grown for their palm-like appearance.