Cycas revoluta (Sago cycad)

Commonly called as the king sago palm, or just sago palm, Cycas revoluta is actually not a palm at all, but a cycad. Its common names were derived from the fact that it has an upright thick and shaggy trunk, topped with whorled feathery leaves. The leaves are semiglossy in texture and deep green in color. They appear to be growing into a feather-like rosette. The stiff leaflets are have revolute edges appearing to be more like spines. It is interesting to note that Sago palms produce a periodic “flush” of new leaves which growers call as “break” instead of continuously adding foliage.

The inflorescence of Sago palms differs between females and male plants. The female inflorescence is feather-like which later form into a tightly packed seed head. This seed head is closely covered by whitish miniature leaves. The male inflorescence is in cone form and is pineapple-shaped.

Despite of their unusual appearance, the Sago palms have become popular ornamental plants. They can also be seen in botanical gardens. Commercially, they are promoted and used as landscape plants. In special occasions, the Sago palms are grown as bonsai plants.

Related Articles

• The History Behind Cycas revoluta - If you love to see a historical touch being added to your garden, lawn, or landscape, check out how cycads can do this job for you.  One of the most primitive living cycads is the Cycas revoluta whose origin can be traced way back to the Mesozoic  era.  Cycas revoluta, also known as the sago
• Sago Plant House Plant - The sago palm is found primarily in the landscape across the southern states… but the sago palm which is not a palm but a cycad is also used indoors. Here’s a few sago’s planted in clay pots and topdressed with rock.