Full Shade
Easy care
Frequent watering
Tender
10a-11b
USDA zone
-1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | Max | 2m |
1m | Min | 1m |
More images of Poor Man's Cycad
Poor Man's Cycad Overview
The poor man's cycad is widely cultivated throughout Southern Africa. It is a dwarf species with an underground stem. Leaves are glossy, dark-green and 1.2 - 2.5 m in length. Female cones are cylindrical, 30 - 50 cm in length, green-yellow to orange in colour. Seeds are beautiful dark red. This is a common feature plant. ZA Distribution: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal.
Common problems with Poor Man's Cycad
Generally problem free. Monitor for Scale Insects and do not overwater!
How to harvest Poor Man's Cycad
Harvest seed as soon as they loosen from the cone.
How to propagate Poor Man's Cycad
Seed
Sow seed just after collection in well-draining sandy soil.
Special features of Poor Man's Cycad
Pot plant
Indoor plant
Drought resistant
Other uses of Poor Man's Cycad
Ornamental
Edible
The Afrikaans name 'Broodboom' came from the traditional use of the pith as bread - note that Cycads is toxic and it needs a 3month fermentation process to break down those toxins!