Cardboard palm - Zamia furfuracea (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Toxic)

Cardboard palm

Also known as: Mexican cycad, Cardboard sago

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Early fall

Harvest Time

1.3 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Brown, Red

Flower Color

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Cardboard palm

Distribution of Cardboard palm

Distribution Map

Cardboard palm is a plant originally native to the eastern coastal region of a major North American region. It has also been introduced to various islands within the Caribbean region. Typically found in low-lying areas with arid climates, cardboard palm is cultivated widely, indicating a broader range of the plant's adaptability beyond its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Limestone sea cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Cardboard palm is a striking, upright shrub with large, spreading, multi-lobed leaves that make it an attractive ornamental in tropical gardens. It is also popular in tropical butterfly gardens, as its leaves provide shelter for several species. It is generally used as a centerpiece in a larger planting, or in large containers in a conspicuous, sunny area.

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Toxicity

The cardboard palm plant is extremely toxic with no known treatment for poisoning. It affects humans (especially children), dogs, and cats through ingestion, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and potentially death. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets exposed to any part of the plant.

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Quickly Identify Cardboard palm

Rigid leaves with 13 pairs of oval leaflets and rolled-under edges.

Egg-shaped female cones up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, bright red toxic seeds.

Large compound leaves with stiff, leathery obovate leaflets covered in yellowish-brown hairs.

Spiral leaf arrangement, small spines along petiole and rachis.

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Care Guide for Cardboard palm

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cardboard palm, native to Eastern Mexico, thrives in arid conditions with a watering schedule of once every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out. Ideal for rock gardens or xeriscapes, it retains foliage year-round and requires less water in cooler months.

Fertilize: Fertilize cardboard palm quarterly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to enhance growth. Use modest amounts per instructions and adjust feeding in winter. Prevent root burn by ensuring soil moisture before application. These practices help both novice and experienced gardeners cultivate a thriving cardboard palm.

Pruning: Cardboard palm has stiff, waxy fronds resembling cardboard. Prune in early to late winter with sanitized shears to enhance air circulation and appearance. Regular pruning reduces disease risk, and vigilant monitoring for pests ensures the plant's health and longevity.

Propagation: Cardboard palm propagates best in Spring or Summer through cutting or layering methods. Successful propagation is marked by new foliage growth. For optimal results, ensure sufficient sunlight and well-draining soil.

Repotting: Repot cardboard palm every 2-3 years in early spring using a shallow, wide pot. After repotting, place cardboard palm in bright, indirect light and water sparingly to prevent root rot. Its unique, stiff foliage makes cardboard palm low-maintenance and resilient.

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Images of Cardboard palm

Distribution of Cardboard palm

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Cardboard palm

Care Guide for Cardboard palm

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