Taitung Sago Palm
cycas taitungensis
Also known as: ["Taiwan Sago Palm","Taitung Cycad"]
Overview
A slow-growing, palm-like cycad native to Taiwan, characterized by a stout trunk and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Cycadophyta |
| Class: | Cycadopsida |
| Order: | Cycadales |
| Family: | Cycadaceae |
| Genus: | Cycas |
| Botanical Name: | Cycas taitungensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot or as a potted plant in a bright location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with organic matter. A mix of cactus soil, perlite, and coarse sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead fronds are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only, removing individual fronds or small sections.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers filtered light, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; avoid intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure gradually.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; avoid drafts or sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop feeding in fall/winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or offsets (suckers). Seeds are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For offsets: Detach cleanly, let callus for a few days, plant shallowly, and water sparingly. For seeds: Soak for 24 hours, plant shallowly, keep moist, and provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (75–85°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light. Protect from direct sun during rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and coarse sand. For seeds, use a sterile seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for offsets, but rooting hormone can aid seed germination and root development.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 4–6 weeks. Seeds can take 3–6 months to germinate and several years to mature.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), sterile potting mix, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterilized tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture for seeds; provide bottom heat for faster germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into the trunk or healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger fronds), disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut cleanly at the base; remove only dead/damaged fronds; avoid trunk damage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 6-inch to 8-inch pot). Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a pot 1–2 inches larger, use fresh well-draining soil, and water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 3–5 years or when roots fill the pot. Cycads prefer being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim dead roots; water sparingly post-repotting; avoid fertilizing for 4–6 weeks.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on soil dryness and environmental conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering to prevent cold-induced root rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or brown leaf margins due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; dilute if liquid; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxins in Cycas taitungensis, which can cause severe liver toxicity and gastrointestinal upset. The cycasin compound is particularly harmful to feline physiology.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Cycas taitungensis by dogs can lead to severe toxicity, primarily affecting the liver and gastrointestinal tract. The cycasin toxin causes significant cellular damage, leading to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCycas taitungensis contains toxic compounds, including cycasin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and liver damage upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with normal cellular processes, leading to significant physiological harm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cycas taitungensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How fast does Cycas taitungensis grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, often taking years to reach significant size.
Q: Does Cycas taitungensis require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on climate conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cycadaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
