Cycas armstrongii – Zamia Palm

A stunning cycad native to the Northern Territory, this species is best suited to tropical and inland regions with a warm and dry climate. In colder regions, the plant will lose its leaves in winter, but regrow in the warm seasons. While the plant is dormant it is at a high risk of rotting if overwatered. Grows naturally in sandy soils, and a sunny aspect in well drained soil is best for cultivation.
The leaves are poisonous to animals, and the seeds also contain a poison, but are soaked by Aboriginal people to remove the poison before cooking them.
Propagated by seed, seedlings grow very slowly.

Picture provided by Philip Clarke, from his new book Discovering Aboriginal Plant Use: Journeys of an Australian Anthropologist

Family : Cycadaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Small tree, Large tree
Width : 3
Flowering Time : All year
Soil Type : Sandy, Sandy loam
Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Semi-arid
Growth Habit : Evergreen, Open foliage, Column-shaped
Soil Moisture : Dry, Well-drained
Special Uses :
Scientific Name: Cycas armstrongii
Common Name : Zamia Palm
Height : 4
Flower Color : Brown
pH Level : Neutral
Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Coastal garden, Drought resistant
Light : Sunny
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost
Attracts Wildlife :