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Description
Zamia Integrifolia, also known as the Coontie plant, is a cycad native to the southeastern United States. It is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach up to 4 feet tall and wide. The plant has a thick stem covered in rough, scaly bark and dark green, glossy leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. Zamia Integrifolia is dioecious, meaning that male and female plants are separate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Cycadophyta |
| Class | Cycadopsida |
| Order | Cycadales |
| Family | Zamiaceae |
| Genus | Zamia |
Appearance
Zamia Integrifolia has a unique appearance with its dark green, glossy leaves that grow up to 3 feet long and 4 inches wide. The leaves are pinnate and have a feather-like appearance. The plant has a thick, woody stem covered in rough, scaly bark that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The plant produces cones that are 2 to 3 inches long and can contain up to 12 seeds.
Care Guide
Zamia Integrifolia is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of your Coontie plant:
Water: Zamia Integrifolia is drought tolerant but prefers moist soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 3 to 4 months with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Soil: Zamia Integrifolia prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Avoid planting the plant in heavy clay or waterlogged soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
Hardiness Zones: Zamia Integrifolia is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zamia Integrifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Pests: Scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs can infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Diseases: Zamia Integrifolia is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Zamia Integrifolia is native to the southeastern United States, specifically Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. The plant grows in sandy, well-draining soil in pine rockland and coastal hammock habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Zamia Integrifolia toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Keep the plant away from children and pets.
Q: Can Zamia Integrifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: Can Zamia Integrifolia be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by division or by planting the seeds.
Q: How long does it take for Zamia Integrifolia to reach maturity?
A: Zamia Integrifolia is a slow-growing plant and can take up to 10 years to reach maturity.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Zamia Integrifolia:
- Zamia Furfuracea
- Zamia Pumila
- Zamia Floridana
- Zamia Loddigesii
- Zamia Skinneri
References
- “Zamia integrifolia.” Floridata. Accessed 21 August 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/732
- “Zamia integrifolia.” University of Florida Extension. Accessed 21 August 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp637
- “Zamia integrifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275316&isprofile=0&basic=Zamia%20integrifolia
