Dioon cycads: Your better option to disease-prone sago palms.
Dioon spinulosum used to be overlooked for those preferring sago palms. But ever since word got out that sagos were susceptible to airborne scale, dioons have moved to the forefront as a reliable specimen plant guaranteed to add instant tropical appeal to your Florida landscape.
Dioon cycads delight in two different sizes.
Dioons are actually ancient cycads classified as two species: the Dioon spinulosum (Giant dioon) and Chestnut dioon (smaller and hardier). Heads up: Both are considered specialty plants and therefore a bit pricier. But if you’ve got your heart set on one, you won’t regret investing in these low-maintenance exotics. Season after season, they become more resplendent with a classic jungle look that’s elegant at the same time.
Planting and care requirements
Although Dioon spinulosum appears soft and feathery, its tips are spiny, ergo its name. You’ll need to install with great care and in a location that can accommodate a six-foot spread. These slow growers with light-green leaves can reach up to five to 12 feet. They’re a great option for the queen sago in zones 9B-11 and perform best in partial to full shade.
The salt-tolerant Chestnut dioon thrives in zones 8-11 and is a bit smaller, growing up to “just” eight feet with multiple trunks. Like the king sago, foliage is more of a blue-green that seems to almost glow in full sun to partial shade.
Both species perform best in well-drained soil where irrigation has been installed (although it’s not necessary since they’re drought tolerant). You’ll find that fertilizing with a balanced product with trace elements will improve growth. Ask your nursery for a recommendation.
If you’re looking for an exotic cycad that makes a strong architectural statement, consider dioon cycads for a “Jurassic Park” feel that blends beautifully with other Florida tropicals. Contact ArtisTree Landscape and let’s get your dream landscape project off the ground.
Contact ArtisTree Landscape 941.488.8897
The award-winning designers at ArtisTree Landscape Maintenance & Design are eager to meet with you! Contact Jenni Lassen to get your design plan started at 941.488.8897 or jennil@artistree.com. ArtisTree is nationally ranked and proudly serves Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and South Hillsborough counties. Need an HOA landscape maintenance proposal? Contact Mike Casper at mikec@artistree.com.
