The Cycas circinalis, commonly known as the Queen Sago or rolled cycad, is an ancient plant that captivates with its exotic appearance and distinctive form. Native to South Asia, particularly the coastal regions of India, this species resembles a small palm tree with gracefully arching, deep green fronds. However, despite its palm-like look, it belongs to the Cycadaceae family, a group of plants more closely related to conifers than to true palms.
At the Au Bois Vert Botanical Garden, this rare species blends seamlessly into the lush landscape of Ivato, near Antananarivo. Its sturdy, upright trunk, often marked by scars from old leaves, gives it a striking, majestic presence. New fronds emerge in a tightly curled form—hence its common name—before gradually unfurling in an elegant spiral. This unique feature, combined with its slow growth rate, makes rolled cycad a prized plant in botanical gardens worldwide.
Adapted to semi-arid conditions, it thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. At Au Bois Vert hotel and lodge, it enhances the surroundings with its distinctive aesthetic, complementing the local vegetation beautifully. With its evergreen foliage, it maintains year-round ornamental appeal, whether planted in open ground or showcased in large pots, creating lush focal points throughout the botanical garden.
Despite being an ancient species, its life cycle is remarkable. It can live for several centuries, demonstrating its resilience and ability to adapt to diverse environments. The rolled cycad symbolises both endurance and natural elegance, making it an unmissable highlight for visitors exploring the Au Bois Vert Botanical Garden near Ivato, Antananarivo.
Plant use
The Cycas circinalis holds significant cultural importance in many Asian societies. Historically, this plant was used for both culinary and ritualistic purposes. In certain regions of India, the seeds of the curled Cycas were ground into a flour used in traditional dishes. However, this required meticulous preparation to remove the naturally occurring toxins present in the plant. Beyond its culinary role, this species is highly valued for its exceptional ornamental qualities. In tropical gardens such as Au Bois Vert, its lush foliage and striking architectural form make it a key decorative feature. Positioned near the restaurant and hotel, it helps create a serene and aesthetically pleasing environment, perfect for visitors seeking relaxation and tranquillity. Cycas plants are also popular in landscape design due to their drought resistance and ability to thrive in poor soils. In urban settings, they add an exotic and verdant touch, whether in public parks or private gardens. Additionally, certain parts of the plant, such as its leaves and trunk, are used in religious ceremonies and traditional decorations. Their distinctive appearance and deep-rooted symbolism bring cultural and spiritual significance to their presence in Au Bois Vert botanical garden, located near Ivato. Despite these uses, it is important to note that Cycas circinalis contains toxic compounds that can be harmful to both humans and animals if consumed without proper preparation. This caution further reinforces its primary role as a decorative and symbolic plant in gardens and green spaces, particularly in the tranquil setting of Hôtel et Lodge Au Bois Vert.
Key information
| Common name | Rolled cycas |
| Scientific name | Cycas circinalis |
| Origin | South Asia, mainly India |
| Natural habitat | Tropical rainforests and rocky areas |
| Life cycle | Slow-growing perennial plant |
| Flowering period | Mainly in summer, under ideal conditions |
