Cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea)

Also known as: Mexican cycad, Cardboard sago

The Cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea) is a cycad, not an actual palm, and dates back to the time of dinosaurs. When grown indoors, it thrives with moderate to bright indirect light. This plant is toxic, with its seeds being particularly hazardous, so it's important to keep it out of reach of pets.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Cardboard palm

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

1.3 m

Spread

2 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

N/A

Flower Color

Brown Red

Images of Cardboard palm

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.

Scientific Classification of Cardboard palm

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Cycads

Order

Cycadales

Family

Sago-palm

Genus

Cardboard palms

Species

Cardboard palm

Planting and Growing of Cardboard palm

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Cardboard palm?

For Zamia furfuracea, it's crucial to ensure you're not overwatering or underwatering. Water until the soil is consistently moist but not soggy. Aim to maintain the balance where the top inch of the soil dries out before the next watering.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Cardboard palm? ›

What should I do if my Cardboard palm is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Cardboard palm? ›

How to save an overwatered Cardboard palm? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cardboard palm?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Zamia furfuracea thrives in partial sun with some full shade exposure. Ideal lighting ensures lush greenery and supports its natural growth cycle, maximizing resilience and vitality.

What kind of lighting does Zamia furfuracea prefer? ›

How can I provide the ideal light conditions for my Zamia furfuracea? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Zamia furfuracea? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Cardboard palm?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Zamia furfuracea is between 65°F and 75°F. This range supports consistent growth and helps maintain the health of the plant. Stable temperatures within this range ensure optimal metabolic processes and photosynthesis, contributing to overall vitality.

What Soil is Best for Cardboard palm?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Zamia furfuracea thrives in well-draining soils that prevent waterlogging around its roots. This soil requirement is crucial to avoid root rot, as this plant is sensitive to excess moisture. A well-draining medium ensures that the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen while preventing fungal infections, ultimately promoting healthy growth. This plant benefits from soil that is rich in organic matter. The presence of nutrients supports robust foliage development and enhances the cyclical growth pattern typical of Zamia furfuracea. Utilizing compost or organic fertilizers can help maintain the soil fertility necessary for sustaining vibrant health. Zamia furfuracea prefers a soil pH that ranges from slightly acidic to neutral. Maintaining the pH between 6.0 and 7.5 ensures optimal nutrient availability and prevents nutrient lockout, which could otherwise impair the plant's ability to absorb essential elements needed for its growth.

How to Fertilize Cardboard palm?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Zamia furfuracea, it is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 formula. When using liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half strength, about 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water, to prevent root burn and ensure gentle feeding.

How to Prune Cardboard palm?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Identify and remove any brown or withered leaves by cutting them off at their base. This encourages new leaf growth and helps the plant utilize its resources more efficiently while maintaining a neat appearance. For enhanced appearance and robust growth, trim back any excessively long or errant stems. This can promote a denser and more symmetrical shape, allowing the plant to maintain its aesthetic appeal. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Cardboard palm plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Gather seeds from mature Zamia furfuracea cones. Ensure that they are fully developed and dry before attempting to plant them. Clean the seeds by removing any remaining fruit flesh to prevent mold growth.

For tissue culture, prepare a growth medium by mixing distilled water with agar and essential nutrients. Ensure the pH level is optimal for plant growth. This medium will support the development of plant cells into stable roots and shoots.

Place seeds or cultured tissues in a controlled environment with adequate temperature, humidity, and light conditions. Monitor regularly to ensure they remain within the parameters necessary for Zamia furfuracea's growth.

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How to Repot Cardboard palm plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Zamia furfuracea shows signs of needing a new pot when roots begin to protrude through the drainage holes. Another indication is when the soil becomes compacted and drains too quickly. Spring and summer are ideal periods to repot, ensuring the plant has a growing season to adjust and settle into its new pot.

Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. A pot that's too big can retain excess moisture, leading to root rot. Ensure it has drainage holes which help prevent waterlogging. A clay pot is ideal as it allows the soil to breathe, keeping the roots healthy by diminishing excessive moisture build-up.

Use a well-draining cactus soil mix rich in inorganic materials like sand or perlite. This kind of soil prevents water retention, which can be harmful to Zamia furfuracea. The mixture will provide a stable and airy base for the roots, mimicking their natural, sandy habitat and promoting robust growth.

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Toxicity of Cardboard palm

Is Cardboard palm toxic to humans?

The most critical aspect to understand about the cardboard palm regarding its toxicity is that there is currently no known remedy for poisoning caused by it. It is vital to treat this plant with appropriate caution and ensure it is kept out of reach of small children and individuals who are vulnerable. In addition to inducing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as the body attempts to eliminate the toxic substances, those who ingest it may experience rapid dehydration, as well as damage to their kidneys and liver, potential paralysis, and ultimately, death. Young children are at an increased risk of consuming a fatal dose; every part of the plant is toxic, including its attractive red berries, which may entice children.

Is Cardboard palm toxic to cat?

The cardboard palm presents a significant toxicity hazard for cats. Every part of this plant is harmful and could cause poisoning if ingested by felines. Interaction with the cardboard palm may lead to signs of physical distress and require urgent veterinary attention. It is crucial for cat owners to restrict their pets' access to any portion of the cardboard palm and to swiftly seek medical assistance at a veterinary clinic in the event of ingestion.

Is Cardboard palm toxic to dog?

The cardboard palm presents a significant toxicity hazard for dogs. Ingesting any component of this plant can result in poisoning because of its elevated toxicity levels. Dogs may experience poisoning after consuming parts of the cardboard palm, including leaves, seeds, and roots. Poisoning symptoms in dogs can differ but may encompass vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal discomfort, and more severe reactions like liver failure or seizures. Considering the gravity of these symptoms and the rapid deterioration that may ensue, it is vital for dog owners to promptly pursue veterinary assistance if they suspect their dog has eaten any part of the cardboard palm. Timely medical intervention is essential for effectively managing the consequences of this hazardous plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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