Cycas revoluta (Sago Palm)
Regular price
$495.00
Title
Ancient Beauty That Transforms Any Space Into a Tropical Paradise
Cycas revoluta gives you the bold, tropical look of a palm with the durability and ancient character of a cycad. Commonly called the sago palm, japanese sago palm, or king sago palm, this palm like evergreen perennial creates a sculptural focal point indoors, on patios, or in warm-climate landscapes-without actually being a true palm.
Its deep green, arching pinnate leaves rise from an upright woody trunk in a feather like rosette, giving any space an exotic, architectural presence. As a member of the cycad family, Cycas revoluta is more closely related to ancient gymnosperms such as conifers than to palms, making it an ornamental plant with genuine prehistoric appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Effortless long-term structure – Sago Palms can grow to a height of 3 to 10 feet and are very slow-growing, often taking decades to reach their mature height.
-
Minimal repotting stress – The Sago Palm’s growth is so slow that it typically requires repotting only every 2 to 3 years.
-
Low watering pressure – Once established, Sago Palms are resilient to hot climates and drought conditions.
-
Instant tropical elegance – The Sago Palm features an upright, woody trunk with a crown of stiff, feather-like pinnate leaves arranged in a rosette pattern.
-
Living history in your home – Sago Palms are extremely long-lived, with some specimens having a lifespan of over 200 years.
This is a plant for people who want presence, not constant fuss. Sago palms grow slowly, hold their shape beautifully, and bring dramatic foliage to containers, rock gardens, courtyards, and bright interiors.
The slow growth is part of the appeal. The Sago Palm can take decades to reach its full size, with some plants only producing one new leaf each year. That means less pruning, less size management, and more time enjoying a plant that feels permanent.
What Makes It Different
Most houseplants demand frequent watering, rapid repotting, regular pruning, or constant adjustment to keep them looking good.
Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) provides:
-
A true cycad, not a palm – Although it has a palm like appearance, Cycas revoluta belongs to the cycad family and is not closely related to true palms.
-
Separate male and female plants – Sago Palms are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants.
-
Distinct reproductive character – Male plants can form cone-like ovoid inflorescences, while female plants produce seed on modified leaves rather than flowers.
-
Extremely slow growing – Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) have a very slow growth rate, typically reaching a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature.
-
Long-lived landscape value – Sago Palms can become massive landscape features over time, often living for over 100 years.
Unlike faster tropical foliage plants, this cycad changes gradually. Young plants may sit at a compact size for years, while mature plants develop a thick trunk, spiny tipped leaf bases, and a circular pattern of new leaves that unfolds slowly from the center.
It also stands apart botanically from related species such as Cycas miquelii and Cycas taitungensis. The genus name Cycas reflects a group of ancient seed plants, and Cycas revoluta is especially prized because its revolute edges, glossy foliage, and symmetrical crown make it highly decorative.
How To Grow Cycas Revoluta Successfully
-
Place it in bright light Position your sago palm near a window with bright, indirect light. It can handle some direct morning sun, and outdoors it can thrive in full sun or partial shade once acclimated. Avoid sudden exposure to harsh direct sunlight if the plant was previously grown indoors.
-
Water only when the soil is ready Let the top half of the soil dry before watering. Sago Palms require consistent moisture but are drought-tolerant once established and are sensitive to root rot due to poor drainage.
-
Use the right soil and container Plant in sandy, loamy, well draining soil with good drainage. A chunky mix with organic matter, coarse sand, or perlite helps protect the roots. Containers must have drainage holes because poorly drained soil can quickly lead to root rot.
-
Feed during the growing season Fertilize Sago Palms with a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer to promote healthy growth. Early spring feeding supports new growth, especially when new leaves begin forming at the crown.
-
Maintain the rosette Prune away any dead or yellowing fronds to reduce stress on the plant and promote new growth. Wear gloves when handling the leaf bases because the foliage can be stiff, sharp, and spiny tipped.
For established outdoor plants grown for flowering performance, Sago Palms need to be watered approximately 50 to 60 liters once a month to achieve optimal flowering. Indoor plants usually need far less water, depending on pot size, soil, humidity, and temperature.
Plant Details
-
Scientific name: Cycas revoluta
-
Common names: sago palm, japanese sago palm, king sago palm
-
Plant type: Palm like evergreen perennial cycad
-
Family: Cycad family, Cycadaceae
-
Mature size: 3-10 feet tall and wide indoors or in containers over a long period
-
Mature metric size: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) typically reach a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature
-
Young plant size: Young Sago Palms can be around 0.5 meters in height with a spread of 1 meter, while mature specimens can take many years to reach their full size
-
Growth rate: Very slow, often 1-2 leaves per year and sometimes only one new leaf each year
-
Lifespan: Sago Palms exhibit a lifespan that often exceeds decades, making them long-lived additions to landscapes
-
Maximum longevity: Some specimens have a lifespan of over 200 years
-
Leaf form: Deep green, stiff, arching pinnate leaves with revolute edges
-
Trunk: Upright, woody trunk with a crown of foliage in a rosette pattern
-
Light requirements: Bright indirect light, bright light, full sun, or partial shade depending on location and acclimation
-
Soil needs: Sandy, loamy, well-drained soils with an acidic to neutral pH
-
Drainage: Requires good drainage and drainage holes in containers to prevent root rot
-
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, often grown as an outdoor plant in warm climates and grown indoors elsewhere
-
Cold tolerance: Sago Palms can tolerate brief periods of cold but suffer frost damage and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F
-
Drought tolerance: Drought tolerant once established
-
Propagation: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) can be propagated by seeds or by removing offsets, which are young shoots attached to the mature plant
-
Offset propagation: To propagate Sago Palms from offsets, carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant, ensuring each has some leaves and roots, and then plant them in well-draining soil
-
Seed propagation: Seed propagation of Sago Palms is possible, but it is rare for these plants to produce seeds in cultivation, making offsets the more common method of propagation
-
Garden use: The Sago Palm is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its unique, sculptural shape and is suitable for container gardening and bonsai
-
Caution: Not pet safe; all parts are toxic if ingested
Cycas revoluta is native to southern Japan, including the Ryukyu Islands. Historically, some cultures processed the plant for sago or edible starch, but the material had to be carefully washed because the plant contains dangerous toxins. It should never be treated as an edible houseplant.
Watch for scale insects, especially cycad scale, and spider mites in dry air. Check the underside of each leaf, the soil surface, and the trunk regularly, especially on smaller plants newly brought home from nurseries.
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Busy professionals who want a dramatic plant without daily watering
-
Collectors seeking a prehistoric specimen with botanical value
-
Homeowners who want a sculptural focal point for living rooms, patios, containers, or rock gardens
-
Gardeners in warm usda zones who want an outdoor plant with long-term structure
-
Plant lovers who appreciate slow growth, deep green foliage, and low-maintenance tropical style
If you want low-maintenance tropical beauty that lasts for decades, Cycas revoluta fits beautifully.
It is not ideal for every household. Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) are highly toxic to both humans and pets, with all parts of the plant containing cycasin, a potent toxin. The seeds of the Sago Palm contain the highest concentration of cycasin, making them particularly dangerous if ingested.
Choose this plant only if you can keep it away from curious pets and children. Ingestion of Sago Palm can lead to severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and liver failure, with a fatality rate of 50 to 75% for pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe around pets and children?
No. Cycas revoluta is not pet safe. All parts of the plant are toxic, and seeds are especially dangerous. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, liver failure, permanent internal damage, and potentially fatal outcomes in pets.
How often should I water it?
Water when the top half of the soil has dried. Sago Palms prefer well-drained soil and require good drainage to prevent root rot. Once established, they are drought tolerant, but they should not sit in wet, poorly drained soil.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing can come from normal aging, overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency, frost damage, or low light. Remove dead or yellowing fronds, check the soil, and make sure the plant receives bright light without sudden harsh direct sun.
Can it grow outdoors?
Yes, in warm climates. Sago Palms thrive in full sun or partial shade and are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for a variety of growing conditions. They are hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, tolerate temperatures only briefly near cold limits, and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F.
Will it produce seeds indoors?
Usually not. Male and female plants are separate, so seed production requires mature male and female plants. Mature plants may produce reproductive structures, but it is rare for cultivated indoor plants to produce seed.
How do I propagate it?
The most common method is removing offsets from the parent plant. Seed propagation is possible, but because cultivated plants rarely produce seeds, offsets are the practical choice for most growers.
Ready to Add Prehistoric Beauty?
Choose Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) and experience ancient elegance, sculptural foliage, and slow growing beauty that can remain part of your space for decades. Add it to a bright room, a protected patio, a container display, or a warm-climate garden-and treat it as a long-term investment in living prehistoric art.
Ancient Beauty That Transforms Any Space Into a Tropical Paradise
Cycas revoluta gives you the bold, tropical look of a palm with the durability and ancient character of a cycad. Commonly called the sago palm, japanese sago palm, or king sago palm, this palm like evergreen perennial creates a sculptural focal point indoors, on patios, or in warm-climate landscapes-without actually being a true palm.
Its deep green, arching pinnate leaves rise from an upright woody trunk in a feather like rosette, giving any space an exotic, architectural presence. As a member of the cycad family, Cycas revoluta is more closely related to ancient gymnosperms such as conifers than to palms, making it an ornamental plant with genuine prehistoric appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Effortless long-term structure – Sago Palms can grow to a height of 3 to 10 feet and are very slow-growing, often taking decades to reach their mature height.
-
Minimal repotting stress – The Sago Palm’s growth is so slow that it typically requires repotting only every 2 to 3 years.
-
Low watering pressure – Once established, Sago Palms are resilient to hot climates and drought conditions.
-
Instant tropical elegance – The Sago Palm features an upright, woody trunk with a crown of stiff, feather-like pinnate leaves arranged in a rosette pattern.
-
Living history in your home – Sago Palms are extremely long-lived, with some specimens having a lifespan of over 200 years.
This is a plant for people who want presence, not constant fuss. Sago palms grow slowly, hold their shape beautifully, and bring dramatic foliage to containers, rock gardens, courtyards, and bright interiors.
The slow growth is part of the appeal. The Sago Palm can take decades to reach its full size, with some plants only producing one new leaf each year. That means less pruning, less size management, and more time enjoying a plant that feels permanent.
What Makes It Different
Most houseplants demand frequent watering, rapid repotting, regular pruning, or constant adjustment to keep them looking good.
Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) provides:
-
A true cycad, not a palm – Although it has a palm like appearance, Cycas revoluta belongs to the cycad family and is not closely related to true palms.
-
Separate male and female plants – Sago Palms are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants.
-
Distinct reproductive character – Male plants can form cone-like ovoid inflorescences, while female plants produce seed on modified leaves rather than flowers.
-
Extremely slow growing – Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) have a very slow growth rate, typically reaching a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature.
-
Long-lived landscape value – Sago Palms can become massive landscape features over time, often living for over 100 years.
Unlike faster tropical foliage plants, this cycad changes gradually. Young plants may sit at a compact size for years, while mature plants develop a thick trunk, spiny tipped leaf bases, and a circular pattern of new leaves that unfolds slowly from the center.
It also stands apart botanically from related species such as Cycas miquelii and Cycas taitungensis. The genus name Cycas reflects a group of ancient seed plants, and Cycas revoluta is especially prized because its revolute edges, glossy foliage, and symmetrical crown make it highly decorative.
How To Grow Cycas Revoluta Successfully
-
Place it in bright light Position your sago palm near a window with bright, indirect light. It can handle some direct morning sun, and outdoors it can thrive in full sun or partial shade once acclimated. Avoid sudden exposure to harsh direct sunlight if the plant was previously grown indoors.
-
Water only when the soil is ready Let the top half of the soil dry before watering. Sago Palms require consistent moisture but are drought-tolerant once established and are sensitive to root rot due to poor drainage.
-
Use the right soil and container Plant in sandy, loamy, well draining soil with good drainage. A chunky mix with organic matter, coarse sand, or perlite helps protect the roots. Containers must have drainage holes because poorly drained soil can quickly lead to root rot.
-
Feed during the growing season Fertilize Sago Palms with a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer to promote healthy growth. Early spring feeding supports new growth, especially when new leaves begin forming at the crown.
-
Maintain the rosette Prune away any dead or yellowing fronds to reduce stress on the plant and promote new growth. Wear gloves when handling the leaf bases because the foliage can be stiff, sharp, and spiny tipped.
For established outdoor plants grown for flowering performance, Sago Palms need to be watered approximately 50 to 60 liters once a month to achieve optimal flowering. Indoor plants usually need far less water, depending on pot size, soil, humidity, and temperature.
Plant Details
-
Scientific name: Cycas revoluta
-
Common names: sago palm, japanese sago palm, king sago palm
-
Plant type: Palm like evergreen perennial cycad
-
Family: Cycad family, Cycadaceae
-
Mature size: 3-10 feet tall and wide indoors or in containers over a long period
-
Mature metric size: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) typically reach a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature
-
Young plant size: Young Sago Palms can be around 0.5 meters in height with a spread of 1 meter, while mature specimens can take many years to reach their full size
-
Growth rate: Very slow, often 1-2 leaves per year and sometimes only one new leaf each year
-
Lifespan: Sago Palms exhibit a lifespan that often exceeds decades, making them long-lived additions to landscapes
-
Maximum longevity: Some specimens have a lifespan of over 200 years
-
Leaf form: Deep green, stiff, arching pinnate leaves with revolute edges
-
Trunk: Upright, woody trunk with a crown of foliage in a rosette pattern
-
Light requirements: Bright indirect light, bright light, full sun, or partial shade depending on location and acclimation
-
Soil needs: Sandy, loamy, well-drained soils with an acidic to neutral pH
-
Drainage: Requires good drainage and drainage holes in containers to prevent root rot
-
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, often grown as an outdoor plant in warm climates and grown indoors elsewhere
-
Cold tolerance: Sago Palms can tolerate brief periods of cold but suffer frost damage and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F
-
Drought tolerance: Drought tolerant once established
-
Propagation: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) can be propagated by seeds or by removing offsets, which are young shoots attached to the mature plant
-
Offset propagation: To propagate Sago Palms from offsets, carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant, ensuring each has some leaves and roots, and then plant them in well-draining soil
-
Seed propagation: Seed propagation of Sago Palms is possible, but it is rare for these plants to produce seeds in cultivation, making offsets the more common method of propagation
-
Garden use: The Sago Palm is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its unique, sculptural shape and is suitable for container gardening and bonsai
-
Caution: Not pet safe; all parts are toxic if ingested
Cycas revoluta is native to southern Japan, including the Ryukyu Islands. Historically, some cultures processed the plant for sago or edible starch, but the material had to be carefully washed because the plant contains dangerous toxins. It should never be treated as an edible houseplant.
Watch for scale insects, especially cycad scale, and spider mites in dry air. Check the underside of each leaf, the soil surface, and the trunk regularly, especially on smaller plants newly brought home from nurseries.
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Busy professionals who want a dramatic plant without daily watering
-
Collectors seeking a prehistoric specimen with botanical value
-
Homeowners who want a sculptural focal point for living rooms, patios, containers, or rock gardens
-
Gardeners in warm usda zones who want an outdoor plant with long-term structure
-
Plant lovers who appreciate slow growth, deep green foliage, and low-maintenance tropical style
If you want low-maintenance tropical beauty that lasts for decades, Cycas revoluta fits beautifully.
It is not ideal for every household. Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) are highly toxic to both humans and pets, with all parts of the plant containing cycasin, a potent toxin. The seeds of the Sago Palm contain the highest concentration of cycasin, making them particularly dangerous if ingested.
Choose this plant only if you can keep it away from curious pets and children. Ingestion of Sago Palm can lead to severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and liver failure, with a fatality rate of 50 to 75% for pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe around pets and children?
No. Cycas revoluta is not pet safe. All parts of the plant are toxic, and seeds are especially dangerous. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, liver failure, permanent internal damage, and potentially fatal outcomes in pets.
How often should I water it?
Water when the top half of the soil has dried. Sago Palms prefer well-drained soil and require good drainage to prevent root rot. Once established, they are drought tolerant, but they should not sit in wet, poorly drained soil.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing can come from normal aging, overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency, frost damage, or low light. Remove dead or yellowing fronds, check the soil, and make sure the plant receives bright light without sudden harsh direct sun.
Can it grow outdoors?
Yes, in warm climates. Sago Palms thrive in full sun or partial shade and are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for a variety of growing conditions. They are hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, tolerate temperatures only briefly near cold limits, and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F.
Will it produce seeds indoors?
Usually not. Male and female plants are separate, so seed production requires mature male and female plants. Mature plants may produce reproductive structures, but it is rare for cultivated indoor plants to produce seed.
How do I propagate it?
The most common method is removing offsets from the parent plant. Seed propagation is possible, but because cultivated plants rarely produce seeds, offsets are the practical choice for most growers.
Ready to Add Prehistoric Beauty?
Choose Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) and experience ancient elegance, sculptural foliage, and slow growing beauty that can remain part of your space for decades. Add it to a bright room, a protected patio, a container display, or a warm-climate garden-and treat it as a long-term investment in living prehistoric art.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Cycas revoluta (Sago Palm)
Regular price
$495.00
Title
Ancient Beauty That Transforms Any Space Into a Tropical Paradise
Cycas revoluta gives you the bold, tropical look of a palm with the durability and ancient character of a cycad. Commonly called the sago palm, japanese sago palm, or king sago palm, this palm like evergreen perennial creates a sculptural focal point indoors, on patios, or in warm-climate landscapes-without actually being a true palm.
Its deep green, arching pinnate leaves rise from an upright woody trunk in a feather like rosette, giving any space an exotic, architectural presence. As a member of the cycad family, Cycas revoluta is more closely related to ancient gymnosperms such as conifers than to palms, making it an ornamental plant with genuine prehistoric appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
-
Effortless long-term structure – Sago Palms can grow to a height of 3 to 10 feet and are very slow-growing, often taking decades to reach their mature height.
-
Minimal repotting stress – The Sago Palm’s growth is so slow that it typically requires repotting only every 2 to 3 years.
-
Low watering pressure – Once established, Sago Palms are resilient to hot climates and drought conditions.
-
Instant tropical elegance – The Sago Palm features an upright, woody trunk with a crown of stiff, feather-like pinnate leaves arranged in a rosette pattern.
-
Living history in your home – Sago Palms are extremely long-lived, with some specimens having a lifespan of over 200 years.
This is a plant for people who want presence, not constant fuss. Sago palms grow slowly, hold their shape beautifully, and bring dramatic foliage to containers, rock gardens, courtyards, and bright interiors.
The slow growth is part of the appeal. The Sago Palm can take decades to reach its full size, with some plants only producing one new leaf each year. That means less pruning, less size management, and more time enjoying a plant that feels permanent.
What Makes It Different
Most houseplants demand frequent watering, rapid repotting, regular pruning, or constant adjustment to keep them looking good.
Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) provides:
-
A true cycad, not a palm – Although it has a palm like appearance, Cycas revoluta belongs to the cycad family and is not closely related to true palms.
-
Separate male and female plants – Sago Palms are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants.
-
Distinct reproductive character – Male plants can form cone-like ovoid inflorescences, while female plants produce seed on modified leaves rather than flowers.
-
Extremely slow growing – Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) have a very slow growth rate, typically reaching a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature.
-
Long-lived landscape value – Sago Palms can become massive landscape features over time, often living for over 100 years.
Unlike faster tropical foliage plants, this cycad changes gradually. Young plants may sit at a compact size for years, while mature plants develop a thick trunk, spiny tipped leaf bases, and a circular pattern of new leaves that unfolds slowly from the center.
It also stands apart botanically from related species such as Cycas miquelii and Cycas taitungensis. The genus name Cycas reflects a group of ancient seed plants, and Cycas revoluta is especially prized because its revolute edges, glossy foliage, and symmetrical crown make it highly decorative.
How To Grow Cycas Revoluta Successfully
-
Place it in bright light Position your sago palm near a window with bright, indirect light. It can handle some direct morning sun, and outdoors it can thrive in full sun or partial shade once acclimated. Avoid sudden exposure to harsh direct sunlight if the plant was previously grown indoors.
-
Water only when the soil is ready Let the top half of the soil dry before watering. Sago Palms require consistent moisture but are drought-tolerant once established and are sensitive to root rot due to poor drainage.
-
Use the right soil and container Plant in sandy, loamy, well draining soil with good drainage. A chunky mix with organic matter, coarse sand, or perlite helps protect the roots. Containers must have drainage holes because poorly drained soil can quickly lead to root rot.
-
Feed during the growing season Fertilize Sago Palms with a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer to promote healthy growth. Early spring feeding supports new growth, especially when new leaves begin forming at the crown.
-
Maintain the rosette Prune away any dead or yellowing fronds to reduce stress on the plant and promote new growth. Wear gloves when handling the leaf bases because the foliage can be stiff, sharp, and spiny tipped.
For established outdoor plants grown for flowering performance, Sago Palms need to be watered approximately 50 to 60 liters once a month to achieve optimal flowering. Indoor plants usually need far less water, depending on pot size, soil, humidity, and temperature.
Plant Details
-
Scientific name: Cycas revoluta
-
Common names: sago palm, japanese sago palm, king sago palm
-
Plant type: Palm like evergreen perennial cycad
-
Family: Cycad family, Cycadaceae
-
Mature size: 3-10 feet tall and wide indoors or in containers over a long period
-
Mature metric size: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) typically reach a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature
-
Young plant size: Young Sago Palms can be around 0.5 meters in height with a spread of 1 meter, while mature specimens can take many years to reach their full size
-
Growth rate: Very slow, often 1-2 leaves per year and sometimes only one new leaf each year
-
Lifespan: Sago Palms exhibit a lifespan that often exceeds decades, making them long-lived additions to landscapes
-
Maximum longevity: Some specimens have a lifespan of over 200 years
-
Leaf form: Deep green, stiff, arching pinnate leaves with revolute edges
-
Trunk: Upright, woody trunk with a crown of foliage in a rosette pattern
-
Light requirements: Bright indirect light, bright light, full sun, or partial shade depending on location and acclimation
-
Soil needs: Sandy, loamy, well-drained soils with an acidic to neutral pH
-
Drainage: Requires good drainage and drainage holes in containers to prevent root rot
-
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, often grown as an outdoor plant in warm climates and grown indoors elsewhere
-
Cold tolerance: Sago Palms can tolerate brief periods of cold but suffer frost damage and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F
-
Drought tolerance: Drought tolerant once established
-
Propagation: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) can be propagated by seeds or by removing offsets, which are young shoots attached to the mature plant
-
Offset propagation: To propagate Sago Palms from offsets, carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant, ensuring each has some leaves and roots, and then plant them in well-draining soil
-
Seed propagation: Seed propagation of Sago Palms is possible, but it is rare for these plants to produce seeds in cultivation, making offsets the more common method of propagation
-
Garden use: The Sago Palm is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its unique, sculptural shape and is suitable for container gardening and bonsai
-
Caution: Not pet safe; all parts are toxic if ingested
Cycas revoluta is native to southern Japan, including the Ryukyu Islands. Historically, some cultures processed the plant for sago or edible starch, but the material had to be carefully washed because the plant contains dangerous toxins. It should never be treated as an edible houseplant.
Watch for scale insects, especially cycad scale, and spider mites in dry air. Check the underside of each leaf, the soil surface, and the trunk regularly, especially on smaller plants newly brought home from nurseries.
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
-
Busy professionals who want a dramatic plant without daily watering
-
Collectors seeking a prehistoric specimen with botanical value
-
Homeowners who want a sculptural focal point for living rooms, patios, containers, or rock gardens
-
Gardeners in warm usda zones who want an outdoor plant with long-term structure
-
Plant lovers who appreciate slow growth, deep green foliage, and low-maintenance tropical style
If you want low-maintenance tropical beauty that lasts for decades, Cycas revoluta fits beautifully.
It is not ideal for every household. Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) are highly toxic to both humans and pets, with all parts of the plant containing cycasin, a potent toxin. The seeds of the Sago Palm contain the highest concentration of cycasin, making them particularly dangerous if ingested.
Choose this plant only if you can keep it away from curious pets and children. Ingestion of Sago Palm can lead to severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and liver failure, with a fatality rate of 50 to 75% for pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe around pets and children?
No. Cycas revoluta is not pet safe. All parts of the plant are toxic, and seeds are especially dangerous. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, liver failure, permanent internal damage, and potentially fatal outcomes in pets.
How often should I water it?
Water when the top half of the soil has dried. Sago Palms prefer well-drained soil and require good drainage to prevent root rot. Once established, they are drought tolerant, but they should not sit in wet, poorly drained soil.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing can come from normal aging, overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency, frost damage, or low light. Remove dead or yellowing fronds, check the soil, and make sure the plant receives bright light without sudden harsh direct sun.
Can it grow outdoors?
Yes, in warm climates. Sago Palms thrive in full sun or partial shade and are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for a variety of growing conditions. They are hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, tolerate temperatures only briefly near cold limits, and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F.
Will it produce seeds indoors?
Usually not. Male and female plants are separate, so seed production requires mature male and female plants. Mature plants may produce reproductive structures, but it is rare for cultivated indoor plants to produce seed.
How do I propagate it?
The most common method is removing offsets from the parent plant. Seed propagation is possible, but because cultivated plants rarely produce seeds, offsets are the practical choice for most growers.
Ready to Add Prehistoric Beauty?
Choose Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) and experience ancient elegance, sculptural foliage, and slow growing beauty that can remain part of your space for decades. Add it to a bright room, a protected patio, a container display, or a warm-climate garden-and treat it as a long-term investment in living prehistoric art.
Ancient Beauty That Transforms Any Space Into a Tropical Paradise
Cycas revoluta gives you the bold, tropical look of a palm with the durability and ancient character of a cycad. Commonly called the sago palm, japanese sago palm, or king sago palm, this palm like evergreen perennial creates a sculptural focal point indoors, on patios, or in warm-climate landscapes-without actually being a true palm.
Its deep green, arching pinnate leaves rise from an upright woody trunk in a feather like rosette, giving any space an exotic, architectural presence. As a member of the cycad family, Cycas revoluta is more closely related to ancient gymnosperms such as conifers than to palms, making it an ornamental plant with genuine prehistoric appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
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Effortless long-term structure – Sago Palms can grow to a height of 3 to 10 feet and are very slow-growing, often taking decades to reach their mature height.
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Minimal repotting stress – The Sago Palm’s growth is so slow that it typically requires repotting only every 2 to 3 years.
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Low watering pressure – Once established, Sago Palms are resilient to hot climates and drought conditions.
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Instant tropical elegance – The Sago Palm features an upright, woody trunk with a crown of stiff, feather-like pinnate leaves arranged in a rosette pattern.
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Living history in your home – Sago Palms are extremely long-lived, with some specimens having a lifespan of over 200 years.
This is a plant for people who want presence, not constant fuss. Sago palms grow slowly, hold their shape beautifully, and bring dramatic foliage to containers, rock gardens, courtyards, and bright interiors.
The slow growth is part of the appeal. The Sago Palm can take decades to reach its full size, with some plants only producing one new leaf each year. That means less pruning, less size management, and more time enjoying a plant that feels permanent.
What Makes It Different
Most houseplants demand frequent watering, rapid repotting, regular pruning, or constant adjustment to keep them looking good.
Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) provides:
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A true cycad, not a palm – Although it has a palm like appearance, Cycas revoluta belongs to the cycad family and is not closely related to true palms.
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Separate male and female plants – Sago Palms are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants.
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Distinct reproductive character – Male plants can form cone-like ovoid inflorescences, while female plants produce seed on modified leaves rather than flowers.
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Extremely slow growing – Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) have a very slow growth rate, typically reaching a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature.
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Long-lived landscape value – Sago Palms can become massive landscape features over time, often living for over 100 years.
Unlike faster tropical foliage plants, this cycad changes gradually. Young plants may sit at a compact size for years, while mature plants develop a thick trunk, spiny tipped leaf bases, and a circular pattern of new leaves that unfolds slowly from the center.
It also stands apart botanically from related species such as Cycas miquelii and Cycas taitungensis. The genus name Cycas reflects a group of ancient seed plants, and Cycas revoluta is especially prized because its revolute edges, glossy foliage, and symmetrical crown make it highly decorative.
How To Grow Cycas Revoluta Successfully
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Place it in bright light Position your sago palm near a window with bright, indirect light. It can handle some direct morning sun, and outdoors it can thrive in full sun or partial shade once acclimated. Avoid sudden exposure to harsh direct sunlight if the plant was previously grown indoors.
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Water only when the soil is ready Let the top half of the soil dry before watering. Sago Palms require consistent moisture but are drought-tolerant once established and are sensitive to root rot due to poor drainage.
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Use the right soil and container Plant in sandy, loamy, well draining soil with good drainage. A chunky mix with organic matter, coarse sand, or perlite helps protect the roots. Containers must have drainage holes because poorly drained soil can quickly lead to root rot.
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Feed during the growing season Fertilize Sago Palms with a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer to promote healthy growth. Early spring feeding supports new growth, especially when new leaves begin forming at the crown.
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Maintain the rosette Prune away any dead or yellowing fronds to reduce stress on the plant and promote new growth. Wear gloves when handling the leaf bases because the foliage can be stiff, sharp, and spiny tipped.
For established outdoor plants grown for flowering performance, Sago Palms need to be watered approximately 50 to 60 liters once a month to achieve optimal flowering. Indoor plants usually need far less water, depending on pot size, soil, humidity, and temperature.
Plant Details
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Scientific name: Cycas revoluta
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Common names: sago palm, japanese sago palm, king sago palm
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Plant type: Palm like evergreen perennial cycad
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Family: Cycad family, Cycadaceae
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Mature size: 3-10 feet tall and wide indoors or in containers over a long period
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Mature metric size: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) typically reach a height of 2 meters and a spread of 1.5 meters when mature
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Young plant size: Young Sago Palms can be around 0.5 meters in height with a spread of 1 meter, while mature specimens can take many years to reach their full size
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Growth rate: Very slow, often 1-2 leaves per year and sometimes only one new leaf each year
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Lifespan: Sago Palms exhibit a lifespan that often exceeds decades, making them long-lived additions to landscapes
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Maximum longevity: Some specimens have a lifespan of over 200 years
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Leaf form: Deep green, stiff, arching pinnate leaves with revolute edges
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Trunk: Upright, woody trunk with a crown of foliage in a rosette pattern
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Light requirements: Bright indirect light, bright light, full sun, or partial shade depending on location and acclimation
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Soil needs: Sandy, loamy, well-drained soils with an acidic to neutral pH
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Drainage: Requires good drainage and drainage holes in containers to prevent root rot
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Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, often grown as an outdoor plant in warm climates and grown indoors elsewhere
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Cold tolerance: Sago Palms can tolerate brief periods of cold but suffer frost damage and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F
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Drought tolerance: Drought tolerant once established
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Propagation: Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) can be propagated by seeds or by removing offsets, which are young shoots attached to the mature plant
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Offset propagation: To propagate Sago Palms from offsets, carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant, ensuring each has some leaves and roots, and then plant them in well-draining soil
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Seed propagation: Seed propagation of Sago Palms is possible, but it is rare for these plants to produce seeds in cultivation, making offsets the more common method of propagation
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Garden use: The Sago Palm is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its unique, sculptural shape and is suitable for container gardening and bonsai
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Caution: Not pet safe; all parts are toxic if ingested
Cycas revoluta is native to southern Japan, including the Ryukyu Islands. Historically, some cultures processed the plant for sago or edible starch, but the material had to be carefully washed because the plant contains dangerous toxins. It should never be treated as an edible houseplant.
Watch for scale insects, especially cycad scale, and spider mites in dry air. Check the underside of each leaf, the soil surface, and the trunk regularly, especially on smaller plants newly brought home from nurseries.
Who It’s For
Ideal for:
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Busy professionals who want a dramatic plant without daily watering
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Collectors seeking a prehistoric specimen with botanical value
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Homeowners who want a sculptural focal point for living rooms, patios, containers, or rock gardens
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Gardeners in warm usda zones who want an outdoor plant with long-term structure
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Plant lovers who appreciate slow growth, deep green foliage, and low-maintenance tropical style
If you want low-maintenance tropical beauty that lasts for decades, Cycas revoluta fits beautifully.
It is not ideal for every household. Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) are highly toxic to both humans and pets, with all parts of the plant containing cycasin, a potent toxin. The seeds of the Sago Palm contain the highest concentration of cycasin, making them particularly dangerous if ingested.
Choose this plant only if you can keep it away from curious pets and children. Ingestion of Sago Palm can lead to severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and liver failure, with a fatality rate of 50 to 75% for pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe around pets and children?
No. Cycas revoluta is not pet safe. All parts of the plant are toxic, and seeds are especially dangerous. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, liver failure, permanent internal damage, and potentially fatal outcomes in pets.
How often should I water it?
Water when the top half of the soil has dried. Sago Palms prefer well-drained soil and require good drainage to prevent root rot. Once established, they are drought tolerant, but they should not sit in wet, poorly drained soil.
Why are the leaves turning yellow?
Yellowing can come from normal aging, overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency, frost damage, or low light. Remove dead or yellowing fronds, check the soil, and make sure the plant receives bright light without sudden harsh direct sun.
Can it grow outdoors?
Yes, in warm climates. Sago Palms thrive in full sun or partial shade and are drought-tolerant, making them suitable for a variety of growing conditions. They are hardy in USDA Zones 9–10, tolerate temperatures only briefly near cold limits, and cannot survive temperatures below 15°F.
Will it produce seeds indoors?
Usually not. Male and female plants are separate, so seed production requires mature male and female plants. Mature plants may produce reproductive structures, but it is rare for cultivated indoor plants to produce seed.
How do I propagate it?
The most common method is removing offsets from the parent plant. Seed propagation is possible, but because cultivated plants rarely produce seeds, offsets are the practical choice for most growers.
Ready to Add Prehistoric Beauty?
Choose Cycas Revoluta (Sago Palm) and experience ancient elegance, sculptural foliage, and slow growing beauty that can remain part of your space for decades. Add it to a bright room, a protected patio, a container display, or a warm-climate garden-and treat it as a long-term investment in living prehistoric art.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.