Sago palm isn't actually a palm at all — it's a cycad, part of an ancient plant group that predates flowering plants by millions of years, giving it a slow, sculptural, almost prehistoric presence in the garden.
Grown outdoors in warm climates and as a striking container or houseplant elsewhere, sago palm grows extremely slowly but lives for decades, making it a long-term investment piece rather than a quick-fill plant.
Sago palm wants bright light and well-draining soil, and it's very tolerant of drought and neglect once established, growing only a few new fronds per year. It's frost-tender below zone 8, so container growing lets gardeners further north bring it indoors for winter.
Every part of the sago palm is highly toxic, especially the seeds — it's one of the most dangerous common ornamentals for pets, particularly dogs, so it should be kept well out of reach.
