Zamia furfuracea

cardboard cycad

Although this plant is often called “cardboard palm,” it is not a palm, but a cycad. More properly called the cardboard cycad, this plant derives the former part of its name from its leaflets, which are quite sturdy and rough, as though they were made of cardboard.

The thick and often buried trunk serves as a storage organ for the plant that helps it survive periods of drought and stress.

Weevils have been pollinators of cycads since ancient times, though today cycads may be pollinated by a variety of insects.

Like many other cycads, all parts of this plant are toxic to humans if ingested. The toxins have been known to cause liver and kidney failure and eventual paralysis. Even though the bright red seeds might look appealing as a tasty treat, they are definitely not, and there is little known about effective treatments for poisoning. There are numerous reports of dogs requiring serious emergency medical attention after eating the fruits, which sometimes results in a slow death.

One of the unfortunate views some people have is equating “natural” with “safe.” There are in fact many plants, some of which you may have in your yard that can cause serious sickness and even death to pets, children and adults. Before planting something, be sure to research its toxicity.

Plants can grow to have a spread of about seven feet and form a nice tropical shrub border when planted in a mass. Grown in shallow containers and properly pruned, this species makes an interesting bonsai specimen.