Cycas

The genus Cycas, or Cycad (Cycas), is the only genus in its ancient family (others are extinct). The genus includes about 20 species of gymnosperms. Only the drooping or turned-away Cycas (Cycas revoluta) is of decorative interest. This very picturesque plant is native to the Far East (China, Japan) and Indonesia. It grows up to 3 m in height. On a thick erect cylindrical stem, a wide crown of pinnate slightly pointed leaves is formed, consisting, in turn, of many linear pointed leaflets. Cycas is a dioecious plant, that is, on some specimens only male flowers are formed, and on others only female flowers are formed. Both are sessile, collected in inflorescences in the center of a bunch of leaves. After fertilization, reddish semi-fleshy edible seeds develop. Quite well-known and cycad curled, or snail-shaped (C. circinalis). This slow-growing plant native to India is more sensitive to cold than the drooping cicada, which is why it is grown less.

The genus Cycas, or Cycad (Cycas), is the only genus in its ancient family (others are extinct). The genus includes about 20 species of gymnosperms.

Only the drooping or turned-away Cycas (Cycas revoluta) is of decorative interest. This very picturesque plant is native to the Far East (China, Japan) and Indonesia. It grows up to 3 m in height. On a thick erect cylindrical stem, a wide crown of pinnate slightly pointed leaves is formed, consisting, in turn, of many linear pointed leaflets.

Cycas is a dioecious plant, that is, on some specimens only male flowers are formed, and on others only female flowers are formed. Both are sessile, collected in inflorescences in the center of a bunch of leaves. After fertilization, reddish semi-fleshy edible seeds develop.

Quite well-known and cycad curled, or snail-shaped (C. circinalis). This slow-growing plant native to India is more sensitive to cold than the drooping cicada, which is why it is grown less.

Cultivation

Cycad drooping-a houseplant, which is very much appreciated for its elegant appearance. It is grown in large pots and tubs filled with well-drained soil. Cicadas can also be grown outdoors in the garden, if there is no harsh winter, or in unheated, but protected from the cold, such as in very heavily lit halls or hallways. Note that such rooms are suitable for palm trees, which the cicada vaguely resembles. Complete mineral fertilizer should be applied regularly.

Location

Cicada prefers open sun, but tolerates a partially shaded location well.

Temperature

The air temperature for this plant should not be lower than 7-8 °C, and it can rise up to 32 °C. But it is best when the temperature conditions are 15-18 °C.

Watering

It should be adjusted according to the time of year, but never over-watered. On the other hand, the ground should always remain moist.

Transplant

Cicada is transplanted every 2-3 years at the end of winter, each time-in a larger container.

Reproduction

Propagated usually by seeds and separation from the trunk of young shoots. Seeds are germinated in boxes with a very well-drained soil consisting of fertile garden soil and sand taken in equal parts. Germination temperature - 28-30 °C. Separated from the main shoots are placed for rooting in a cool place protected from drafts. Use light soft soil mixed with sand and peat.

Diseases

It is damaged by pests (often worms), which must be controlled with appropriate medications.

Acquisition

Cicada is considered a valuable plant, so its cost is high - you should look for it in specialized flower nurseries. The price depends to a certain extent on the size of the specimen, so it is preferable for amateurs who are interested in watching the growth of plants to buy young specimens. When you are buying plants, you should check them for pests.