Cycas hoabinhensis

Cycas hoabinhensis is a striking and highly localized cycad species native to limestone outcrops in northern Vietnam, particularly around Hòa Bình Province. A rare gem within the genus Cycas, this plant is instantly recognizable by its elegant, arching pinnate leaves that can reach up to 1.5 meters in length, emerging in a dense rosette from a short, rugged, often subterranean trunk. The leaflets are narrow, glossy, and stiff, featuring a deep green coloration with a strong midrib and finely serrated margins, giving the foliage a bold, architectural appearance. Unlike many cycads, Cycas hoabinhensis displays subtle morphological distinctions in its reproductive cones, with female megasporophylls exhibiting broad lamina and distinct lateral teeth. This species has adapted to thrive in karst environments, showing remarkable drought resistance and slow growth—traits that add to its desirability among collectors and botanical institutions. Its restricted distribution and habitat specificity make it a rare and conservation-priority species, yet its ornamental potential in tropical and subtropical landscapes remains exceptional.