Trees Planet: Cycas pectinata

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Cycas pectinata – Fern Palm

General Information

Common Name	Fern Palm
Scientific Name	*Cycas pectinata*
Sun Tolerance	Full Sun
Height	Up to 10 m (up to 33 ft)
Spread	3 - 5 m (10 - 17 ft)
Growth Rate	Moderate
Bloom Time	When Matured
Color	Green,
Flower Color	Yellow
Type	Tree
Native	Asia

Classification

Kingdom	Plantae – Plants
Subkingdom	Tracheobionta – Vascular plants
Superdivision	Spermatophyta – Seed plants
Division	Cycadophyta - Cycads
Class	Cycadopsida
Subclass	Cycadidae
Order	Cycadales
Family	Cycadaceae Pers. - Cycad family
Genus	Cycas L. – Cycad
Species	C. edentata L.

Cycas pectinata – Fern Palm

Cycas pectinata is a species of cycad, commonly known as Fern Palm. It is a group of ancient seed plants that have existed since the time of the dinosaurs. Often referred to as "living fossils," cycads like Cycas pectinata are prized for their unique appearance, slow growth, and evolutionary significance. Native to parts of South and Southeast Asia, this species is one of the larger and more striking cycads, both in natural habitats and botanical gardens.

The Fern Palm, is a medium to large-sized cycad. It typically grows as a solitary trunked plant that may reach up to 10 meters (33 ft) tall in mature specimens. The trunk is cylindrical and covered with persistent leaf bases. Its leaves are pinnate (feather-like), dark green, and can grow up to 3 meters long, giving the plant a palm-like appearance.

The leaflets are narrow and arranged in a distinct comb-like pattern, which gives the species its name — “pectinata” meaning “comb-like.” New leaves often emerge with a bronze or reddish tint, gradually turning green as they mature.

Fern Palm is found in the subtropical and tropical forests of northeastern India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, northern Myanmar, northern Thailand, Laos, and parts of southern China. It typically grows on slopes, rocky hillsides, or in open forest areas, often at elevations between 300 and 1,200 meters above sea level.

Like all cycads, Cycas pectinata is dioecious, meaning male and female reproductive organs occur on separate plants. Males produce cone-like structures called microstrobili, while females bear megasporophylls, which are modified leaves bearing ovules. Pollination is usually facilitated by wind or insects. After fertilization, large seeds are produced, which may take several months to mature. Germination is slow, and seedlings grow very gradually, sometimes taking years to develop a recognizable trunk.

Cycads play an important role in forest ecosystems, including nitrogen fixation through symbiotic relationships with cyanobacteria in their roots. In some traditional cultures, cycads are used for ornamental purposes, religious ceremonies, and even food — though seeds must be carefully processed to remove toxins.

Due to its striking appearance and historical significance, Cycas pectinata is cultivated in tropical and subtropical gardens around the world. It prefers well-drained soil, partial shade, and protection from frost. However, care must be taken when growing cycads, as many species contain toxic compounds and should be handled with care, especially around pets and children.

Cycas pectinata is a remarkable species that connects the present-day flora with the prehistoric world. Its majestic form, resilience, and rarity make it a plant of both scientific interest and ornamental value. Preserving this species in its natural habitat and through sustainable cultivation is essential to maintaining the biodiversity of ancient plant lineages. While Fern Palm is not currently classified as endangered, it faces threats from habitat destruction, deforestation, and illegal collection for ornamental and horticultural purposes. In many regions, wild populations are in decline. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, regulation of trade, and propagation in botanical gardens and nurseries.