Sago Palm

Cycas revoluta

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

The Sago Palm is a slow-growing cycad with striking feathery, fern-like fronds that emerge in dramatic rosettes. Despite its common name, it is not a true palm but a prehistoric-looking plant that adds architectural interest to any interior. It is extremely toxic to pets and children, requiring careful placement in homes with animals or young kids.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Sago Palm is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun; needs at least 6 hours of bright light daily

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Water

Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply when top inch is dry; overwatering is the primary cause of failure

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Soil

Very well-draining soil mix with sand, perlite, and cactus mix; poor drainage leads to root rot

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Fertiliser

Feed lightly every 3–4 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer; reduce in fall and winter

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Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F; can tolerate brief periods to 50°F but avoid cold stress

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Humidity

Low to moderate humidity (30–50%); does not require misting and prefers drier air than most houseplants

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to DogsdangerousToxic to Children

Highly toxic to all pets and children; contains cycasin which causes severe liver damage; requires secure placement away from reach

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right grainLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How dangerous is Sago Palm to pets?

Extremely — Sago Palm is highly toxic to all pets and children, containing cycasin which causes severe liver damage. It requires secure placement well out of reach in any home with animals or young kids, since even small amounts can be life-threatening.

Why does my Sago Palm grow so slowly?

Sago Palm is a slow-growing cycad, not a true palm, and its prehistoric-looking feathery fronds emerge gradually in rosettes — this deliberate pace is normal, so don't expect rapid growth even with ideal bright, indirect light.