Light. Bright light suits it best, but harsh direct sun can scorch the fronds.
Water. Water while it establishes; after that it is drought tolerant. It does not tolerate overwatering or poor drainage.
Soil and feeding. Plant it in moist, well-drained sandy or loamy soil.
Size. Grows to about 5 ft. It is very slow and may take 50 years to reach 10 ft.
Pruning. Remove only dead fronds. Pups at the base can be removed and replanted.
Problems to watch. Cycad aulacaspis scale coats fronds in white crust and can kill a sago within a year. Hose it off, then spray horticultural oil weekly for a month or use a Systemic Insecticide Drench following the label.
Good to know. All parts are highly toxic to people and pets, and sago has killed dogs. The seeds are the most toxic part.
Sources: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Cycas revoluta · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Cycad Aulacaspis Scale · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Toxic Landscape Plants
