cycad
Cycas rumphii
Overview
The cycad (Cycas rumphii) is an amazing plant species that is unique to the tropics. It is a living fossil, meaning it was one of the first seed plants in existence. It can live up to 200 years, and can survive in some of the harshest climates. The fern-like fronds have an elegant appearance, and the yellow-orange fruit is an attractive feature. The plant is also extremely strong and can appear nearly invincible when surrounded by other plants. The cycad is an incredible species, resilient and an important part of many tropical ecosystems.
Care Guide
Watering
Cycad plants, such as the Cycas rumphii, need to be watered well enough for the soil to remain consistently moist but not soggy. Watering should be done once every 1-2 weeks during the summer months and every 2-3 weeks during the winter months. When watering your Cycas rumphii, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil, drenching the root ball. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as this will help to minimize diseases caused by excess moisture. Additionally, when the plant is in its growth period add additional water. To help maintain consistent moisture levels, consider adding a layer of mulch.
Light
Cycad (Cycas rumphii) prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sunlight. During the warmer months Cycad should receive some direct sunlight for a few hours a day, but it is best to avoid direct sunlight for more than 6 hours a day. To help ensure that the plant is receiving the best possible lighting, it can be beneficial to rotate the plant on a regular basis. During the winter months, Cycad should receive less direct sunlight and more indirect light.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 9-10.
Pruning
Cycad (Cycas rumphii) should be pruned once or twice a year, preferably in the spring or if needed in late summer to early fall. Pruning should be done lightly and only to remove any dead or damaged leaves and/or stems. Dead leaves should be removed as these can harbor disease and encourage diseases to spread in the plant. Any stems that appear unhealthy should also be removed as this can stop any further damage from occurring. Pruning should involve the removal of only the unwanted stems and leaves and new growth should not be drastically hacked off. Pruning should always be done carefully and with minimal disturbance to the plant so as not to disrupt any healthy growth or damage the plant.
Propagation
Seed Propagation
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