cycas
( SYE - kas )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of Cycads is native to Asia, Oceania, and east Africa. The best-known species, Cycas revoluta, is used commonly as either an indoor plant or landscape ornamental. These are evergreen trees, and can be used in the landscape similar to how Palms are used. Take care when planting these trees in your landscape; most plant parts are toxic to humans and animals.
|
Cycas Species and Varietals
The genus Cycas is in the plant family Cycadaceae, and includes 119 distinct species of Cycad. The best growing zones for Cordyline vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Cycas revoluta (Cycas taitungensis) (Sotetsu, Sago Palm, King Sago, Sago Cycad, Japanese Sago Palm) This species is native to southern Japan (including the Ryukyu Islands). This is a main species from which Sago is extracted, and it is also used as an ornamental plant in landscaping projects. The Latin specific epithet revoluta means 'curled back', referring to the open, spreading crown of recurved leaves. Foliage is glossy and deep green. These plants can reach up to between 3 and 10 feet tall in containers, and between 10 and 15 feet tall when planted directly in the ground. |
Cycas circinalisWith purple-red foliage. |
'Sunrise'
This variety has dark red-pink leaves with bright pink margins. |
'Sundance'
With green leaves that have pink midribs. |
'Southern Splendor'
With dark green leaves that have bright pink edges. |
'Torbay Dazzler'
Green leaves have creamy margins. |
Cordyline Hybrids
This group of Cordyline varieties, some of which have questionable parentage, form clumps and produce fragrant white or pale lilac flowers in summertime. These plants are wonderful for adding height and interest to potted plants. Popular varieties include those listed below.
'Electric Pink'
Reaches 4-5 feet tall and has dark maroon, narrow leaves edged in bright pink. |
'Festival Grass'
Forms a clump of fountain-like foliage 2-3 feet tall and just as wide. Burgundy leaves are glossy and reach 2-3 feet long. |
'Renegade'
Forms a tight foliage clump 2 feet tall and just as wide, with dark purple-black leaves. |
Cordyline indivisa (Blue Dracaena) This specie does well in zones 16, 17 and 20-24; they are native to New Zealand and are hardy down to 26 degrees Fahrenheit. The trunk of this plant grows up to 25 feet tall and is topped with an 8-10 foot wide mass of stiff foliage. Summer flowers are white and form in 4 foot long clusters. This species can tolerate seaside conditions. Provide with full sun and moderate amounts of water. |
Cordyline stricta This species is native to Australia, and is hardy down to 26 degrees Fahnrenheit. It does well in zones 13, 16, 17, 20-24, H1 and H2. Stems clustered at the base hold 2-foot long, dark green leaves with hints of purple. Springtime brings fragrant lavender flowers that form in large branched clusters. These plants reach 15 feet tall and 6 feet wide, but can be kept much smaller if canes are cut to the ground regularly. Great in-ground or in containers either inside or outdoors. This species needs some shade, especially in areas with hot afternoon temperatures. Provide regular waterings. |
Caring for Cordyline
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
|
Propagating camellias
|
Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 202, Bouteloua
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!