Description
Like
other cycads, the queen sago resembles a palm tree with its featherlike leaves
arranged in a rosette that crowns a single trunk. It is a larger and more
graceful version of its more commonly encountered cousin, the Japanese or king
sago (Cycas revoluta). The queen sago's
solitary trunk can grow to 20 ft (6.1 m) in height, more than twice that of the
Japanese sago. In older specimens some branching may occur, producing very
handsome plants with multiple crowns.
The dark green pinnate
leaves grow to 8 ft (2.4 m) in length with narrow 12 in (30.5 cm) leaflets that
curve gracefully downward. New leaves are light green and contrast dramatically
with the older foliage. This species is dieocious, with male and female
reproductive parts on separate plants. In late winter the male and female
"cones" emerge from the centers of the plants. Pollen from the male
cones fertilizes the female cones. A colorful show results later in the season
when female plants produce large orange seeds in a conelike structure located in
the center of the rosette of leaves.
Location
Queen sago (Cycas circinalis) is native to equatorial Africa. It is now a
popular landscape item in frost free areas everywhere.
CultureQueen sago is tolerant
of most soils, but prefers loose sandy soils with some organic matter and light
bark or leaf mulch.
Light: Bright
conditions are best. Queen sago can take full sun and moderate shade as well.
Moisture: Queen sago needs
adequate moisture but will tolerate occasional short-lived droughts. Make sure
the soil is well drained or roots will rot.
Propagation: The sagos are propagated by seed. Press
seeds to half their depth in moist sand. Kept moist and in a warm environment,
the seeds will usually germinate in 8 to 12 weeks.
UsageThis beautiful cycad
looks great almost anywhere! Queen sago is great for entryways or by the patio.
It is especially effective when used as a focal point on a large expanse of
lawn. Pop one in a mixed shrub border to add contrasting texture.
Features
This is a great plant
that is relatively easy to grow and that lends a real sense of the tropics to
any environment. Queen sago is readily available for a reasonable price from
garden centers and nurseries in frostfree areas of the country.
A flour is obtained
from the seeds. This must be thoroughly washed and processed to remove toxins.
There is evidence that long term use of such flour, even if properly prepared,
may still result in paralysis and other neurological disorders over time.
