Sago Palm (cycas revoluta) in full flush

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The most common, and least expensive, cycad is the "Sago Palm" (Cycas revoluta). You can find these for sale just about anywhere, even in grocery stores! If you are a beginner in cycad collecting, this is the best place to start. Don't buy one that is in this state of flush, however, as the leaves are easily damaged at this point. Still, look for one that has signs that it flushed recently and has strong, healthy leaves. Avoid the temptation to buy one at a grocery store, but you needn't go to an expensive nursery, either. Cycas revolutas tolerate neglect and there are usually plenty at your local Walmart or Home Depot. Plant it on a slope, which allows drainage. Just about the only thing that a cycad can't stand is poor drainage - the roots will rot and the plant will die. By the way, if, for some reason, all of the leaves fall off, don't despair! As long as the caudex (the trunk) is firm, the leaves will grow back. Be patient. If, however, the caudex is mushy, the plant is gone. Allow better drainage next time!

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