The Mexican fan palm however, has a slender trunk usually less than one foot across. Although the Mexican fan palm grows reasonably well in zone 8b, a better choice for most of the Southeast would probably be a hybrid of the two species known as Washingtonia x filibusta. They are palm like in appearance, although totally unrelated to palms. The sago palm is one of the most popular types of cyads grown. A compact plant can reach a height of 10 feet, although 3 to 5 feet is more common.
Cycads make an excellent accent in sun and shade.
In severe winters the fronds may burn, but new ones follow in the spring. Sago palm is not suitable for use in western South Carolina. Palms are very susceptible to nutrient deficiencies of nitrogen, potassium, magnesium and manganese. Symptoms include yellowing, streaking or even spotting of the fronds. Following a regular, balanced fertilization program for palms is important, especially in regions such as the outer Coastal Plain, where micronutrient deficiencies typically occur.