Plant Profile: Zamia integrifolia

Zamia, a diverse genus within the cycad family, comprises 60 species and is primarily located in Florida, the Caribbean, and tropical regions of South America. One notable species, Zamia integrifolia L.f. (also known as Z. floridana), resembles a shrub and features a fleshy stem that grows underground. In the United States, it is indigenous to Florida and Georgia, thriving in well-drained, sandy soils that can be either moist or enriched with organic matter, although it tends to flourish in more nutrient-rich environments. This resilient plant is drought-resistant and can withstand salt spray.

This ancient cycad plays a crucial role in supporting an endangered butterfly species, making it beneficial to plant in large groups as ground cover. While the plants may experience some damage from larval feeding, they typically recover well. To initiate germination, the fleshy seed coat must be removed, and new plants can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from the underground stem.

For further details on Zamia, additional resources are available.