Cycas cairnsiana

(Please click on the image to enlarge it for a better look at an extra large specimen that has been established for 2-3 years.)

We have found a rare cycad we want to share with you. Cycas cairnsiana, one of the most blue-leafed cycads known, is native to northern Queensland in Australia. However, this plant and its seeds are nearly impossible to find in that country. Moreover, those who have tried to germinate from seed generally experience a high failure rate and slow initial growth from seed, disappointing many growers. Well, we’ve eliminated this risk with these 10 year old plants.

Cycas cairnsiana has very glaucous blue, keeled leaves, which emerge with a fuzzy coating, and develop a waxy texture with age, becoming recurved. Commonly known as "Mount Surprise Blue", this plant became so popular with collectors, there are severe restrictions on wild collection of seeds or plants.

These plants have caudexes of 1-3 inches in diameter, with leaves reaching 12 inches in height. This is the point at which C. cairnsiana is assured to survive, grow and thrive! Until the plant reaches this size, it is extremely hard and frustrating to grow. As you can see from the picture above, some of these plants have also thrown off small pups. And here's a picture of a more mature specimen.

These plants were not grown in Australia, having been artificially propagated on another continent. So, you’ll have no concerns about buying a wild-collected plant. They can handle full sun to moderate shade (they are bluer with more sun). While they are drought-tolerant, they can handle significant water, if necessary, as their native habitat often gets up to 100 inches of rain per year. This plant is also relatively cold-tolerant, able to handle temperatures below 20 degrees F.

We stumbled across these plants on a remote farm. After flipping over what we found, we have decided to offer the plants at prices significantly below what you'd find elsewhere. Similar sized plants of this species have sold recently for $175 apiece. One or two-leaf seedlings currently sell for $40-$50 apiece elsewhere.

Plants will be shipped bare-root or in pots (at increased shipping cost) within the U.S.A.

We are offering these plants at the following prices (If you are interested in a larger order, please inquire):