Wood’s cycad

At maturity, this species reaches approximately Up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall, presenting Pinnate leaves, stiff and leathery, forming a crown along with Cones, male cones are cylindrical and female cones are larger, followed by Seeds are large, surrounded by a fleshy covering. These features are supported by a reliable Deep taproot system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to South Africa (specifically KwaZulu-Natal), Wood’s cycad thrives in Dry forests, often found in rocky slopes at elevations around 300 to 600 meters above sea level. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 10b to 11. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wood’s cycad, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a soil pH of about 5.5 to 7.5.

Wood’s cycad needs watering,Moderate; allow soil to dry between waterings, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Dry to moderately moist, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Deep watering at the base supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wood’s cycad performs best within 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F). Its ideal growth occurs at around Around 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F), though it tolerates ranges from Min: 10 C (50 F), Max: 35 C (95 F). Additionally, maintaining Low to moderate humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Balanced slow-release fertilizer at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or organic matter enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing of leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Regularly remove old leaves as needed for Use sharp, clean tools for clean cuts tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years or when growth is stunted may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Up one size larger pot increase and a fresh Cactus or succulent mix with added sand for drainage. for Staking or Support. Generally not needed for this plant.

During Winter (May to September in the Southern Hemisphere), growth may slow and some Minimal leaf drop; color change not prominent can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation preferred and provide Warmth, require light for germination when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Not commonly propagated by cuttings to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWood’s cycad problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Scale insects, mealybugs and remain vigilant against Root rot due to overwatering. Implementing Appropriate watering and good air circulation and applying Insecticidal soap for pests, reduce watering for root rot when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Other cycads and drought-resistant plants and shows Low allelopathic effects, making it a flexible choice for various Specimen plant, tropical gardens, containers.

the Edible Parts: None. Toxicty of Wood’s cycad, Toxic; contains neurotoxins. learning about its Not applicable, None, and Not applicable can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used in herbal remedies (appropriately processed) or note its Considered rare and sacred in some cultures.

With an Critically Endangered, proper Protection of habitat, seed banks, propagation programs