Cycas revoluta Thunb. (Cycadaceae) Sago Palm A squat palm-like tree, native of Japan. Extremely slow-growing cylindrical stem eventually to 3m or higher, dark brown, usually single, but sometimes branched. Leaflets leathery in pinnate fronds, stiff dark green, glossy, to around 1m long, in a terminal crown. Increases by offsets. Female plants bear orange fruits. The hardiest and most commonly grown cycad, it will do well as a pot plant in a frost-free greenhouse or outside in a lightly shaded spot in Mediterranean climates. Min -5°C for short periods only, if the crown is protected.
Cultivation Easily grown in good soil, and tolerant of coastal conditions in Mediterranean climates.
Height to 4m (13ft); spread to 2m (6 ½ft). USZ 9–11, surviving -6.5°C (20°F) of frost. Tolerant of summer drought.