SELECT YOUR CYCAD

Different forms of cycads are available at garden centres or specialist cycad nurseries, and all are equally striking. Many are called ‘palms’ because of similar growth habits, but they are not related. Here are some popular choices.

Sago palm (Cycas revoluta)

The most commonly grown cycad species is loved for its stiff, glossy, green foliage radiating from a beautifully textured trunk. Native to southern Japan, it prefers warm, frost-free conditions. It tolerates light frosts once established, but will suffer with prolonged exposure.

T ST WT 2–3m 2m

Cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea)

This eastern Mexican native has rounded leaf tips, which makes it perfect for planting along paths, in small spaces and even indoors. It’s tolerant of coastal sites.

T ST WT 1m 1.5–2m

Lepidozamia spp.

These Australian natives are highly ornamental, with dark, handsome foliage on a tall, single or multi-stemmed trunk. Scaly zamia (L. peroffskyana) thrives in dappled shade to sunny positions, while Hope’s cycad (L. hopei) prefers a deep shaded, moist environment.

ST WT up to 5m 3m

Macrozamia spp.

This group of Australian native cycads is incredibly tough. Burrawang (M. communis) is often abundant in open woodlands and dry forests. Its feathery fronds on single or multi-stemmed trunks are a standout feature. Growing up to 7m tall, M. moorei is one of the larger species, and its foliage forms a skirt around the trunk as it ages.

ST WT 1.5–7m 1.5–2m

Dioon spp.

Native to Mexico and Central America, these cycads are a real statement piece, with a lush crown of stiff, feather-like, blue-green foliage surrounding a slender stem. The tips are pointed, so take care with placement. D. spinulosum can reach dizzying heights up to 20m in the wild, but is generally much smaller in cultivation.

T ST WT 1–5m 1–4m