Cycad

Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade or bright filtered light; avoid intense western exposure and reflected desert heat.

Water: Water deeply, then allow the upper several inches of soil to dry. Established plants tolerate some drought but need supplemental summer irrigation in Phoenix; reduce watering substantially in winter.

Soil: Very well-drained sandy or loamy soil; keep the crown above grade and avoid waterlogged soil. Alkaline soils may contribute to micronutrient deficiencies.

Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide over many decades; size varies considerably among cycad species.

Bloom: Does not flower; mature plants produce reproductive structures, often irregularly and only after many years.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Very slow; typically produces one flush of leaves annually, sometimes more under favorable conditions.