Sago Palm Tree

The sago palm tree has 2 popular varieties as the "king or queen sago". They are just a couple of the many kinds in this family. The one pictured is a queen sago.

Some other plants in this group have a very similar look to them are the giant dioon and the virgin palm.

It has a different kind of leaf than a “normal” palm. Probably because it is not a true member of the palm family.

Queen Sago Palm Tree

It's of the cycad plant group and aren't related at all. Some other plants in this group have a very similar look to them. They are the giant dioon and the virgin palm.

Many think of sago as a palm because of its name so I've included it for you.

Check the quick info for each the king and queen, each has slightly different growing conditions.

Important Information:

Keep in mind that all parts of any sago palm tree are toxic.

Animals can find it actually tasty and can get into trouble.

The greatest level is found in the seed.

You may want to reconsider planting this tree if you have pets or small children around.

Growth

They are slow growers which makes them perfect for both gardens and containers.

Sago palms are just as good looking when they are young as when they get large.

A favorite in landscapes because it takes along time for them to get tall.

Outdoors they will thrive with summer temps from 30-35°C and can take full sun or natural shade.

Sago palms require well drained soil and are somewhat drought tolerant.

They can survive in if brought indoors, but will need a sunny location and to be fed occasionally with a quality fertilizer

Quick info:

Scientific name: cycas rumphii (Queen Sago)

10-15 ft tall 8-12 ft wide, single trunk that will branch
minimum temp 28°F, zones 9-11
full sun, regular water and food, moderate growth
sandy well drained soil of any type
this variety is larger than the King Sago relative

Young Sago Palm Tree Showing New Growth

A Potted Sago Palm Tree

For those who have suffered some freeze damage with brown leaves, don't be in a hurry to count the plant out. It will probably recover if left alone. Look for green in the bud area.

Sago Palm Tree Appearance

Their trunk is rough and their leaves are a feathery shape but on the picky side. Not as soft as real palms.

Their leaves also grow differently. They have many leaves come out at once all the way around.

They are similar to the traveler palm in the way they grow from just leaves out of the ground to having a very thick trunk right off the bat.

It does look a little out of proportion that way.

Young Sago Palm

Our older tree has a big chunk missing in part of the trunk that has allowed it to rot.

Because of the nature of the rough diamond shape pattern in its trunk- it is more vulnerable to insect pests and then ultimately wood rot as the tree matures.

Sago palms reproduce either with seeds and also have new plants growing out of pockets on the trunk. These are often called pups. They can be carefully removed and planted separately.

If you don't want new trees starting just keep the "suckers" or pups trimmed down.

Quick info:

Scientific name Cycas revoluta (King Sago)

4-8 ft tall, and wide, single trunk that does branch
Minimum temp 15°F zones 8-11
Full sun, drought tolerant, slow growing
sandy well drained soil of any type
great in containers and does well indoors

Older Sago Palm with Rotten Trunk

Sago Palm Tree Seeds

It is not unusual for a mature sago palm tree to have multiple trunks. It can branch off itself and have multiple heads of leaves on them.

You can tell the males and females apart rather easily when they are flowering. Both sexes get flowers but they are quite distinct in appearance.

Female Flower

Female Sago Palm Flower

Male Flower

Male Sago Palm Flower

So many associate it with palm trees that I felt it deserved speaking to you about.

Did you know the sago palm tree has been around since before the dinosaurs?

A very adaptable tree that has survived for millions of years!

They are readily available for purchase.

Don't forget every part of this tree is poisonous... If you have pets or small children it's wise to purchase a different type of palm.

Want to learn more?

All Types of Palm Trees

Planning on growing a tropical garden inside or out? Here's a list of the many types of palm trees used in landscapes so you can plan accordingly!
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Bamboo Palms

The bamboo palm is a very popular house plant. These 3 different kinds are easy to grow indoors or in containers. See what they look like and how to grow.

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