How to Grow and Care for Cardboard palms

Cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea) is a tropical shrub that is not a true palm, but a cycad. Cardboard palm is an ancient plant that lived during the age of the dinosaur. It is often planted as a houseplant and needs moderate to bright light. The entire plant is poisonous, but the seeds are deadly and should be kept away from pets.

The coontie (Zamia pumila) isn’t really a palm at all, but a small shrub that has palm tree-like leaves. Although it is sensitive to be transplanted, once it is established, this little shrub is a hardy ornamental bush. It works great in warm climates as borders, a small hedge, and even in containers.

Coontie, commonly known as coontie, is a slow-growing, low-lying, evergreen shrub, native to the southeastern United States. Its leathery, pinnate leaves span the spectrum from light green to dark olive. Adapting to its tropical and subtropical habitat, coontie survives well in varying light and soil conditions, making it a rugged survivor despite its somewhat fern-like, delicate appearance.

Zamia loddigesii is a perennial cycad distinguished by its feather-like, pinnate leaves that emerge from a thick, cylindrical trunk. These leaves are glossy and dark green, contributing to the plant's prehistoric appearance. Though slow-growing, zamia loddigesii is well-suited to withstand drought, a trait shaped by its native tropical habitats. As a low-maintenance ornamental, it's sought after for both indoor and outdoor gardens.

Zamia neurophyllidia is a cycad with dark green, pinnate leaves that emerge from a thick, subterranean trunk. Its leaflets possess a distinctive leathery texture, often with a slightly curved appearance. Adapted to forest understories, zamia neurophyllidia thrives in shady, moist conditions, with its robust root system drawing nutrients in nutrient-poor soils. The plant adds an ancient touch to any garden, resembling living fossils from the Mesozoic era.