Zamiaceae - Botanical Family

Several of the species possess stout trunks. The persistent, pinnate leaves are arranged in a terminal spreading crown, or ascending. The rigid leaflets are variously spiny or incised along their margins. Male cones are elongated, and three or four may appear at a time. Female cones are borne singly, or up to three at a time, and may weigh up to 60 pounds (27 kg).

Species :

Encephalartos ferox

Encephalartos gratus

Encephalartos hildebrandtii

Encephalartos horridus

Encephalartos lehmanii

Encephalartos natalensis

Encephalartos transvenosus

Encephalartos villosus

Pineapple Zamia is a large and fast growing shrub (up to 5-10 ft tall) and in time may form a small tree (10-20 ft).

A native to Australia, Lepidozamia peroffskyana (Pineapple Zamia) is a large and fast growing shrub or small tree that carries cones that are among the largest of all cycad cones. Its long, dark green fronds usually reach around 10-20 ft in height and have a palm-like structure.

Pineapple Zamia is a hardy shrub and prefers well-drained soil but does not like to become too dry. It does best in a semi-shaded area and needs regular watering, especially during summer when it is active and growing. When planting in the ground, use moderate water throughout the year.

Those growing Pineapple Zamia in cold climates like USDA Zone 9-11 can try growing it in a large pot that can be easily shifted indoors for the winter season. Make sure the pot holds enough volume for the root system and has good drainage, as too much water could damage the roots of the plant. Throughout the winter season, use only enough water to keep the soil barely moist.

When caring for a Pineapple Zamia, keep in mind that it is very vulnerable to over-watering and should not be overwatered. As it is not tolerant of high salts, keep the soil around the plant free of fertilizers and salts. It is also sensitive to drastic temperature changes and cares should be taken while shifting the plant indoors or outdoors. Finally, use plenty of organic mulch to maintain the moisture in the soil, as it will help to avoid drought and nutrify the soil.

Macrozamia moorei is one of the most majestic of the Australian native cycads. Macrozamia moorei is suited to tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate regions. It is a very hardy and versatile species which will adapt to a range of soils and climates providing that drainage is good. Best grown in a sunny position. Excellent plant for large containers or tubs.

This is a "living fossil" plant, surviving on earth since the time of the dinosaurs. Cardboard Palm belongs to the Cycad family (cycad is greek for "palm" which many cycads resemble). Other cycads include Coontie Palm and Sago Palm (neither of these are really palms!) Cardboard Palm has 3 to 4 foot leaves that emerge from a central point forming a rosette. When grown in bright sunlight the rosette becomes a 3 foot high clump of tightly overlapping leaves that will slowly grow to 6 feet in diameter. The thick leathery leaves are pinnate and have 5 inch long by 1 inch wide oval leaflets. They are slightly fuzzy and feel a little like cardboard when rubbed (hence the name Cardboard Palm!) The foliage emerges from a thick fleshy trunk that serves as a water reservoir in times of drought. Male and female reproductive structures (cones) form on separate plants. Even very young plants produce these interestingly shaped cones. When ripe, the female cone breaks to reveal an array of tightly packed, bright red 1 inch seeds. Location Cardboard Palm is native to the warm sandy coastal plains of Mexico and is a common landscape item in tropical and sub-tropical areas all over the world. It is also a popular and easy to grow houseplant. Plant in neutral, well-drained sandy soil. Mulch with organic materials (bark or leaf mold). Sustains leaf damage at 28 degrees F. Cardboard palm makes a great accent or specimen plant. Use near the patio, in mixed foundation plantings or in perennial beds. This cycad is salt resistant and can be used in beachside plantings. Also makes a great container plant for the patio or deck. It is a great houseplant tough enough to survive occasional neglect and harsh indoor environments. Large outdoor clumps are striking as the light olive green new growth emerges to hover above a base of darker mature leaves. Specimens can be grown indoors in shallow containers. Used this way, the partially exposed tuberous stem and the airy crown of leaves create a striking bonsai specimen. With it beautiful shape, exotic looking cones and instinct for survival, Cardboard Palm is one of the favorite indoor plants.

Zamia integrifolia, commonly known as Coontie or Koonti, is a small, woody cycad native to the southeastern United States, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean. It is also found in Grand Cayman and the Dominican Republic, but it is believed to be extinct in Puerto Rico. This plant is prized for its medicinal properties and is used to treat digestive and urinary tract disorders, as well as to promote wound healing. It is also popular as an ornamental groundcover due to its low-growing habit and ability to thrive in a variety of soils, including seaside and salt-tolerant areas. In cold regions, Zamia integrifolia can be grown in pots and brought indoors when temperatures drop. It requires full sun or semi-shade and moderate watering.

Zamia integrifolia is found in a variety of habitats with well-drained sands or sandy loam soils and prefers filtered sunlight or partial shade. It is a hardy plant that is easily grown in sub-tropical and warm temperate areas. However, it is becoming increasingly uncommon due to intensive land use. This plant is poisonous and produces a toxin that affects the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system. The toxin can be removed by careful leaching, and the roots and half-buried stems were traditionally used by Native American people for their sago-like starch. The root is typically prepared for food by grinding it using a wooden mortar and pestle, and the resulting flour is used in various dishes.

Plant care: Plant in a location that receives full sun or semi-shade and has well-drained sandy soil. Water moderately, making sure not to overwater. In cold regions, the plant can be grown in pots and brought indoors when temperatures drop. Protect the plant from strong winds, as they can damage the leaves. If necessary, prune damaged or diseased leaves to maintain a healthy appearance.

Because Zamia integrifolia is poisonous, take care when handling the plant and keep it out of reach of children and pets.