Day 006: Sprouting Leaves Of The King Sago Palm [2]

The growth habit of the King Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) displays an upright trunk topped with stiff feather-like leaves growing in a circular pattern. Rather than continuously adding foliage, it produces a periodic “flush” of new leaves, called a “break” [Source: rhapisgardens.com]. This is done annually.

You can know when the King Sago Palm is ready to sprout new leaves based on the size of the top of its crown.

The top of the crown is tiny in size. The King Sago palm is not ready to sprout new leaves.

Over several months, the top of the crown becomes enlarged revealing that the King Sago palm will soon sprout new leaves.

New leaves emerge all at once in a circular pattern. The feather-like leaves or fronds of the King Sago Palm grow to heights of over 12 inches (approx. 31cm) in an upwards fashion then they arch over.

(First photo)

(Second set of photos)

Up close view of fronds with rain droplets on their curled leaves.

(Third photo)

(Fourth set of photos)

View from above showing the leaves gradually uncurling and arching downward.

(Fifth set of photos)

View of leaves from above

View of leaves uncurling

(Sixth set of photos)

View from above

(Seventh photo)
The new leaves grow out in a radial fashion forming a perfectly symmetrical crown of leaves that are deep, glossy green with a plastic-like texture, growing up to three to four feet in length.

Warning: Over-watering or watering at the crown of the plant can cause the plant to rot. All parts of the sago palm tree, especially the seeds, are toxic to humans and animals if they are eaten.
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