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Cycas revoluta (Sago Cycad)
Cycas revoluta (Sago Cycad)

The sago cycad is sometimes mistakenly considered a palm, although the only similarity between the two is that they look similar and produce seeds. Cycads’ only relation to the true palms (Arecaceae) is that both are vascular and seed plants.

This very symmetrical plant supports a crown of shiny, dark green leaves on a thick, shaggy trunk typically about 20 cm (7.9 in) in diameter, sometimes wider. The trunk is shallow to subterranean in young plants but lengthens above ground with age. It can grow into very old specimens with 6–7 m (over 20 feet) of trunk; however, the plant is very slow-growing and requires about 50–100 years to achieve this height. Trunks can branch several times, thus producing multiple heads of leaves.

It grows best in sandy, well-drained soil, preferably with some organic matter. It needs good drainage, or it will rot. It is fairly drought-tolerant and grows well in full sun or outdoor shade. It is tolerant of mild to somewhat cold temperatures, provided the ground is dry. Frost damage can occur at temperatures below −10 °C (14 °F). C. revoluta usually defoliates in winter in this temperate climate but will usually flush (grow) several new leaves by spring.

Cycad sago is extremely poisonous to animals (including humans) if ingested. If any quantity of the plant is ingested, a poison control center or doctor should be contacted immediately. Effects of ingestion can include permanent internal damage and death. All parts of the plant are toxic; however, the seeds contain the highest level of the toxin cycasin. Cycasin causes gastrointestinal irritation and, in high enough doses, leads to liver failure.

From Wikipedia.
iNaturalist Photo Accreditation:
Kuqi_baba
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/197489074
martin_pathavidhatu
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/218039810
jaredchance12
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/194841492

Sago Cycad kuqi baba
Sago Cycad martin pathavidhatu
Sago Cycad jarechance12
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