Sago
Metroxylon sagu
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Quick Info
water
Thrives in swamps and waterlogged areas
spacing
8 metres between palms
depth
Plant suckers at original growing depth
sun
Full sun to partial shade
season
Year-round - plant suckers any time
frost
Cannot tolerate frost - lowland tropical only
height
10-15 metres at maturity
gemination
N/A (grown from suckers)
sprout to harvest
7-15 years from sucker to harvest
soil ph
4.5-7.0 (tolerates acid swamp soils)
soil type
Swampy, waterlogged lowland soils
fertilizer needs
None required - grows in natural swamp
About
Sago is a culturally and nutritionally vital staple for many lowland and swamp communities in PNG, particularly in the Sepik, Gulf, and Western provinces. Starch is extracted from the pith of the sago palm trunk just before it flowers. A single palm can yield 150-300 kg of starch. Sago groves are managed communally and the palm grows naturally in swampy lowland areas.
Health Benefits
High in carbohydrates and calories, providing essential energy. Low in protein and fat but an excellent energy food. Gluten-free. Combined with fish and sago grubs, it forms a complete diet in traditional communities.
Market Requirements
Raw sago starch should be clean, white, and free of fibre. Processed sago (pancakes, pearls) sold at local markets. Starch can be dried and stored for months.