The cycads, known scientifically as Cycadophyta, constitute a fascinating group of ancient plants, recognized as survivors of the earliest seminiferous species. These plants, often mistaken for palms because of their size and large leaflets, are actually primitive gymnosperms that have survived since the late Paleozoic. Today, cycads are valued for both their ornamental value as well as for their resistance and longevity, making them ideal for gardens and interior spaces.
What is a cycad and why is it special?
Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, Oceania and America, the cycads They have captured the interest of botanists, gardeners, and hobbyists for their evolutionary history and unique structure. While they may resemble palm trees, they are not real palms, but distant relatives of conifers, such as pines. Among the best known and most cultivated species is the Cycas revoluta, known as the Sago palm or cica palm.
The cycads They have a unique appearance: they have a unbranched trunk (or pseudostem) and a crown formed by a dense crown of evergreen, rigid, pointed leaves, of an intense green color and characteristic shine. There are specimens of cycads that exceed the meter high every several decades, although their development is so slow that it can take many years for them to reach a medium size. Their life expectancy easily exceeds a hundred years, even reaching several centuries under ideal conditions.
Botanical characteristics of cycads
- Sheets: Pinnate, very stiff, and long, up to 2 meters in some species. They grow in a rosette, gradually replacing the old leaves.
- Trunk: Semi-woody, robust, fleshy and unbranched, known as pseudostem.
- Root system: Coralloid roots that grow close to the surface and can establish symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
- Increase: Extremely slow and compact.
- Longevity: Very long-lived plants, capable of living for more than a century and even reaching 300 years.
- Flowering and fruiting: Plants dioecious, that is, there are male and female specimens. The male flowers are grouped in elongated cones; the female flowers produce a semicircular inflorescence and false drupe fruits with reddish seeds.
- Toxicity: All parts of the cycad contain cicasina, a compound that is toxic to humans and domestic animals. This means that contact with or ingestion of leaves and seeds should be avoided.
Taxonomy and main families
Cycads are classified within the order Cycadales, integrating three main families:
- Cycadaceae: Includes gender Cycas. As an example, the Cycas revoluta It is the most representative and popular.
- Stangeriaceae: Formed by gender Stangeria, with species of leaves similar to ferns.
- Zamiaceae: The largest family, with several species in the Americas, Africa, and Australia. The genus zamia It is typical of America, with plants with short, almost imperceptible stems.
Optimal location: indoor or outdoor?
Cycads stand out for their versatility: They can be grown both in well-lit interiors as in exteriorFor optimal development, they prefer locations with good light, ideally direct sun or semi-shadeIn environments with strong sunlight, it's best to provide shade during the central hours of the day. For indoor cultivation, it's best to place them near windows with plenty of light, avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight passing through glass (which can cause leaf burn).
Abroad, withstand climatic differences They tolerate temperatures ranging from warm to short periods of cold, even withstanding light frost. It's advisable to protect them from strong winds and severe frosts by using covers or placing them next to walls.
Substrate and transplant
El ideal substrate For cycads it is the one that offers excellent drainageThey prefer fertile, light and slightly acidic soils, although they are quite Customizable, thriving even in calcareous soils as long as excess water is drained away. For potted plants, a mixture of garden soil with peat and coarse sand or perlite is recommended.
- Outdoors: If the soil does not drain well, dig a large hole and mix the original soil with organic matter and perlite.
- In pots: Use containers with drainage holes and a base of pebbles or gravel.
El transplant It should only be done every few years, preferably at the beginning of spring, as its root system is delicate and doesn't tolerate frequent changes well. If the cycad is in a pot, it's a good idea to renew the top layer of the substrate once a year to maintain its vigor.
Reproduction: How to multiply cycads
Cycads can multiply sexually and asexually:
- By seeds: Seeds should be sown directly into seedbeds, preferably after soaking them for 24 hours to facilitate germination. Sowing is usually done in spring.
- By suckers or shoots: The plant develops shoots at the base of the trunk. These suckers can be carefully separated from the parent plant and planted in separate pots with loose, well-draining soil.
Asexual reproduction through suckers is faster, although both methods require patience due to the slow growth of these plants.
Flowering and life cycle
Cycads are dioecious, presenting male and female specimens. Male cycads produce elongated cones, while female cycads produce inflorescences in flattened clusters or semicircles. After pollination, female cycads produce large, reddish, fleshy seeds. Dispersal is carried out mainly by animals or by gardeners themselves, who collect and sow the seeds.
The life cycle is extremely long, with a juvenile and vegetative phase that can last decades before reaching reproductive maturity.
Toxicity and handling precautions
All parts of cycads contain cicasina, a toxic compound. This means that precautions should be taken especially if there are children or pets in the home, as ingestion can cause serious gastrointestinal or neurological symptoms. Always handle leaves and seeds with gloves and avoid direct contact.
Common pests and diseases
Cycads, although hardy, are not without problems:
- Woodlouse: Overwatering or very humid environments favor the appearance of mealybugs on leaves and roots. Applying specific insecticides or mineral oils can control the problem.
- Red palm weevil: This insect can especially attack plants grown in warm climates. Prevent it by avoiding excessive pruning and applying preventative products in spring and summer.
- Root fungi: Related to water stagnation. Avoid overwatering and ensure the substrate drains properly.
- Yellowing of leaves: It may be associated with excessive fertilizer or chlorosis due to a lack of nutrients. Review the fertilization regime and, if necessary, apply iron chelate.
Current situation and conservation
The cycads are considered Endangered Species in their natural habitat, primarily due to deforestation, overexploitation, and illegal trade. Various international organizations, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), legally protect cycads to prevent their disappearance in the wild. Cultivation in nurseries and gardens contributes in part to species conservation, provided it is carried out responsibly.
- Ideal in exotic or minimalist gardens: Their prehistoric appearance and architectural style make them the focal point of any space.
- Perfect for spacious and well-lit interiors: Avoid placing them in dark corners to maintain the firmness and color of their leaves.
- Combination with other species: They work very well alongside tropical and succulent plants.
El cycad care Growing them doesn't entail any major difficulties, but it does require attention to their basic needs: well-drained soil, moderate watering, plenty of light, and avoiding excessive fertilizer or drastic pruning. Their slow pace of life invites patience, rewarded with centuries of beauty and a sculptural presence in the garden or home. These fascinating plants connect us with the history of life on Earth, transforming any space into a corner of ancient nature.
