6-10cm Zamia furfuracea

Product Description

• Origin: Native to eastern Mexico, particularly the state of Veracruz, adapted to arid and semi-arid coastal plains and rocky slopes.
• Growth: A slow-growing cycad with a thick, short trunk (caudex) reaching 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9m) tall. Pinnate fronds grow 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2m) long, with leathery, fuzzy leaflets that have a silvery-blue tint—earning it the nickname "Cardboard Palm".
• Flowers: Dioecious plant (separate male/female specimens). Blooms in spring: male flowers are yellow, cylindrical cones; female flowers are brown, rounded cones. Cones add unique prehistoric-style ornamental interest.
• Light: Thrives in bright direct to partial sunlight (4-6 hours daily). Tolerates light shade, but insufficient sun causes leggy fronds; protect from intense midday heat in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
• Watering: Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer)—let the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out between waterings. Reduce to minimal watering in winter; overwatering leads to root rot, especially in heavy soil.
• Soil & Potting: Use well-draining sandy mix: cactus soil + perlite + coarse sand (2:1:1 ratio). Choose a wide, shallow pot to fit its spreading root system; ensure ample drainage holes.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 8-11. Tolerates brief temperatures down to 20°F (-6.7°C); in zone 8, insulate roots with mulch during frost events.