Cardboard palms - Zamia (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Toxic)

Cardboard palms

Also known as: Fern palms, Chiguas

Cardboard palms grow as shrubby plants, superficially fern-like or palm-like. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Cardboard palms are characteristic for their aerial or subterranean stems, spirally-arranged leaves with oval leaflets, and reproductive cones. Like ferns, they reproduce via spores. Although they grow naturally in specific tropical habitats, some species are highly adaptable and make popular garden and house plants.

Scientific classification

Genus

Cardboard palms (Zamia)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cardboard palms

Species

Cardboard palm Coontie Coontie Zamia loddigesii Zamia neurophyllidia Zamia incognita

Toxicity

The cycad plant, cardboard palms, is extremely toxic to both humans and animals. Ingesting even a small amount, particularly the seeds, can be fatal to cats and dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, and death. Immediate veterinary attention is required for pets. All parts contain harmful glycoside toxins.

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Quickly Identify Cardboard palms

Distinctive leafy crowns resembling palms or ferns

Seed-bearing cones resembling corn cobs, 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long

Pinnately compound leaves with glossy, dark green leaflets

Thick, woody underground stem with branches, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in diameter

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Care Guide for Cardboard palms

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cardboard palms is adapted to cyclical droughts, thriving with moderate moisture. It prefers balanced watering every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. As an evergreen, its thick foliage reduces transpiration, enhancing moisture retention.

Propagation: Propagation of cardboard palms primarily relies on seed sowing due to the challenges of vegetative methods. Seeds require a warm environment (27°C/80°F), indirect light, and well-draining soil for germination, which may take months. Freshly harvested seeds yield the best results when sown 1 inch deep and kept moist.

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Learn More About Cardboard palms

Toxicity

How to Grow and Care

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