Cycas Revoluta Care
The Cycas Revoluta (Japanese sago palm) is a tough, slow-growing houseplant with a prehistoric look. It likes plenty of light and little water, and in summer it can also stand outside in a sheltered spot. Note: toxic to pets.
Cycas Revoluta care
Cycas Revoluta care tips at a glance
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Houseplant delivered in growing pot | |
| Latin name | Cycas revoluta | |
| Location | Plenty of light, also tolerates sun | |
| Water requirements | Little, only when the soil is dry | |
| Toxic | Toxic if ingested | |
| Growth rate | Very slow | |
| Maintenance | Low |
“A Cycas Revoluta can live to be a hundred years old and sometimes grows just a few centimetres a year. Some of the plants now standing in living rooms were already growing before your great-grandparents were born.”
Frequently asked questions about the Cycas Revoluta
Quick answers to the most common questions about watering, toxicity, growth rate and location.
Is the Cycas Revoluta toxic to pets?
Yes, and this one deserves your full attention: the Cycas Revoluta is toxic to pets, especially dogs. Every part of the plant contains the toxin cycasin, with the seeds being the most poisonous part. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, liver damage, and in severe cases can even be life-threatening. Always keep the plant out of reach of your dog or cat, and call your vet straight away if you suspect ingestion.
How fast does a Cycas Revoluta grow?
Very slowly. The Cycas Revoluta is one of the slowest-growing houseplants and sometimes produces just one new crown of leaves per year. That slow pace is exactly what makes it special: a mature Cycas can be decades old, sometimes even over a hundred years old.
Where's the best spot for my Cycas Revoluta?
Choose a spot with plenty of (indirect) light. The Cycas Revoluta also handles a few hours of direct sun a day just fine, but in deep shade it grows even slower than usual. Indoors, a bright spot near a window is ideal.
How do I avoid overwatering my Cycas Revoluta?
Overwatering is the number one killer of the Cycas Revoluta. Always wait until the soil has completely dried out before watering again, and use a pot with a drainage hole and well-draining soil. Not sure? It's better to wait an extra day than to water too soon.
Can the Cycas Revoluta stand outside in summer?
Absolutely, in summer the Cycas Revoluta enjoys a sheltered spot outside, for example on the patio or balcony. Once the nights turn colder, bring it back indoors: the plant isn't frost-hardy and can't handle frost.
How often should I water my Cycas Revoluta?
The Cycas Revoluta needs little water and copes well with a dry spell. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings, then give a modest amount of water. In winter, when the plant barely grows, you can cut back watering even further.
Why does my Cycas Revoluta have yellow leaves or brown tips?
Yellow leaves usually point to overwatering: the roots are sitting too wet and aren't getting enough oxygen. Brown leaf tips are often caused by dry air or low temperatures, for example near a draughty door or a cold radiator. Adjust the location or watering routine and the plant usually recovers on its own.
