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Sago palm
Also known as: Japanese sago palm, Sotetsu
The sago palm is said to be a source of sago, a starch and carbohydrate source eaten in certain countries. Great care must be taken, however, because sago palm is poisonous that could cause vomiting, diarrhea and headache, etc. These palm-like plants are more often kept for their decorative value. But make sure that your pet is away from this plant, which could be fatal to pets if consumed.
Scientific classification
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Toxic to Human & Pets
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Shrub
Plant Type
Summer
Bloom Time
Mid fall, Late fall
Harvest Time
3 m to 8 m
Plant Height
90 cm to 3 m
Spread
Green, Blue
Leaf Color
8 cm to 15 cm
Flower Size
Yellow, Gold, Cream, Brown, Red, Orange, Tan
Fruit Color
Yellow, Brown
Flower Color
Green, Brown
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Slow
Growth Rate

Images of Sago palm

Distribution of Sago palm

Distribution Map
Sago palm is native only to Japan and southern China, growing in hillside thickets. Sago palm has been introduced in the southeastern US and Bangladesh, where it grows in sandy, well-drained soil.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Sea shore, Thickets, Forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Garden Use
The tropical and subtropical sago palm does well in home landscapes as a border, accent, or specimen plant, and can also be grown in containers. The sago palm does particularly well in drought-tolerant, Mediterranean, and rock gardens as it requires low maintenance. Companion plants include Canna, Plumbago, Foxtail fern, Jacaranda, and Jatropha plants.
Symbolism
Good fortune, longevity and wealth
Interesting Facts
Sago cycad is also called the sago palm. It is said that in ancient times, the Phoenix was captured and tamed, hoping to show feathers to the public and sing and dance, but the Phoenix did not give in. After the Phoenix was burned to death, it left behind a plant, which is the sago palm.
Name Story
Sago palm: This plant is featured with a rugged trunk, topped with whorled feathery leaves. These features have inspired the common name "Sago Palm". Nevertheless, it is actually related to conifer and Ginko trees. It was believed that all cone-bearing plants which trace their origins back to the past. In the ancient flora of the early Mesozoic era, it is often called "living fossils". Weirdly enough, the Cycas plants have changed very little in the last 200 million years.
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Toxicity

Sago palm is highly toxic due to cycasin. All parts, especially seeds, can cause severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures in cats, dogs, and humans. Ingesting sago palm can lead to liver failure and death. Consult a vet immediately if ingestion is suspected, as even small amounts are lethal.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Sago palm

Quickly Identify Sago palm

1
Symmetrical rosette of glossy, dark green leaves with pointed, feathery leaflets, up to 5 feet (1.5 m) long.
2
Stout, shaggy trunk resembling a scaled bulb, 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 m) tall.
3
Large, golden cone fruit with large seeds, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter.
4
Pinnate, glossy green leaves in circular rosette pattern, 3-7 feet (90 cm to 2.1 m) long.
5
Thick, sturdy stem with rough, textured, woody surface, up to 1 foot (30 cm) in diameter.
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Care Guide for Sago palm

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
15 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Originating from dry, subtropical regions, sago palm exhibits drought tolerance and prefers minimal moisture. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, thriving as an evergreen with consistent moisture. Sago palm is resilient to watering schedule variations, effectively handling water stress.
Fertilize: Sago palm benefits from balanced nutrition fertilizers with equal NPK ratios to enhance frond growth. Fertilize every 1-2 months in active growth seasons, reducing frequency in fall and winter. Apply granules near the drip line, water deeply afterward to ensure nutrient uptake and prevent root burn.
Pruning: Sago palm features stiff, feather-like leaves and grows slowly. Minimal pruning is required; trim dead fronds in early to late winter using sterilized tools. Avoid cutting green fronds for optimal photosynthesis. Pruning promotes new growth and resilience to pests. Wear gloves for protection against sharp tips.
Propagation: Sago palm propagates effectively via cutting and layering in spring and summer. Though moderately challenging, successful propagation is indicated by root emergence and new growth. For the best outcomes, utilize only healthy parent material.
Repotting: Repot sago palm every 2-3 years in spring to prevent root-bound issues. Use a deep pot for taproot growth and well-draining soil. Avoid immediate watering to prevent root rot, and provide bright, indirect light to support recovery. Careful repotting ensures sustained health for this slow-growing plant.
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