Cycas thouarsii is often mentioned as “coming from Madagascar”, and that it does. But, there are also native populations in multiple eastern African countries and in the Comoros Islands. It is a medium to large sized cycad that can get trunks over thirty feet tall and twelve to eighteen inches thick in a hundred years. But, in the short term of 20 years, anticipate a trunk height of six or eight feet in the ground. Leaves are green, tend to be upright and have a length of six to nine feet. A healthy plant can throw forty new leaves all at once. Leaflets are paired and bright green. Leaf stems are armed with small hooks. Leaflets are leathery and reduced in size toward the base of the leaf. Similar in appearance to Cycas circinalis, this species thrives in Southern California and tolerates full coastal sun. In far inland areas, part day sun is preferred. Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F.
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