Zamia Coontie Palm

Zamia Coontie integrifolia, commonly known as coontie, is a slow-growing, palm-like cycad native to the southeastern U.S., prized for its resilience and ornamental value in landscapes, supporting wildlife like the Atala butterfly. It features fern-like fronds, an underground stem, and produces cones, with both male and female plants existing. Historically, its starchy roots were used to make flour, but the plant is toxic if not properly prepared, requiring care with pets and children.

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Evergreen shrub with stiff, feather-like fronds, resembling a small palm or fern.
• Size: Typically grows 3–5 feet tall and wide.
• Growth: Slow-growing, with an underground stem (caudex).
• Cones: Dioecious (separate male and female plants); produces reddish-brown pollen cones and stout, orange-seeded cones.

Growing Conditions & Care

• Light: Tolerates full sun to full shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy soils; drought-tolerant once established.
• Water: Moderate watering; avoid standing water.