A slow, blue-grey cycad from Mexico forming a stout trunk topped with stiff, gently arching fronds of crowded leaflets. A handsome, drought-tolerant feature for pots and dry gardens; toxic to pets.
At a glance
- Plant type: Palm or cycad
- Mature size: 2 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Chestnut Dioon
Dioon edule is a slow-growing palm or cycad in the Zamiaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage.
Where to grow Chestnut Dioon
Chestnut Dioon suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Chestnut Dioon does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Chestnut Dioon is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. 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 Chestnut Dioon in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Chestnut Dioon in the garden
Chestnut Dioon 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 Chestnut Dioon with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Chestnut Dioon
Plant Sale lists Chestnut Dioon 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 it is available.