An Australian native cycad forming a palm-like trunk topped with arching glossy fronds, found through Queensland's tropical woodlands. A hardy architectural feature; seeds and foliage are toxic to pets.
At a glance
- Plant type: Palm or cycad
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Australian Nut Palm
Cycas media is a slow-growing palm or cycad in the Cycadaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Australian Nut Palm
Australian Nut Palm suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Australian Nut Palm does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Australian Nut Palm is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Australian Nut Palm in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Australian Nut Palm in the garden
Australian Nut Palm earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Australian Nut Palm with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and tropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Australian Nut Palm
Plant Sale lists Australian Nut Palm as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.