Coontie Palm - Live Starter Plants in Liners - Zamia Floridana - Rare Ornamental Palms of Florida

The Coontie Palm (Zamia floridana), also known as Florida Arrowroot, is a striking, low-maintenance cycad that brings a touch of prehistoric beauty to any landscape. Native to the southeastern United States, this resilient evergreen features finely textured, feathery foliage that emerges in a deep green hue, forming a lush, symmetrical mound. Despite its name, the Coontie Palm is not a true palm but a cycad, an ancient group of plants dating back millions of years. Ideal for both residential and commercial landscapes, the Coontie Palm is prized for its adaptability and drought tolerance. It thrives in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and performs well in sandy, well-drained soils. Its compact size, typically reaching 2 to 3 feet in height and width, makes it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, borders, and native garden designs. Additionally, the plant’s slow growth and ability to withstand coastal conditions make it a popular choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes. Beyond its ornamental appeal, the Coontie Palm plays an essential role in supporting local ecosystems. As one of Florida’s few native cycads, it provides a natural habitat for various wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity of its surroundings. Whether used as a ground cover, an accent plant, or part of a native garden, the Coontie Palm offers a unique combination of beauty, resilience, and environmental benefits.

• Light Requirements: The Coontie Palm adapts well to various lighting conditions, thriving in both full sun and partial shade. While it prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth, it can tolerate lower light conditions, making it suitable for shaded garden spots.
• Watering Needs: This drought-tolerant cycad requires minimal watering once established. During its initial growth phase, regular watering helps establish strong roots, but mature plants only need occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root issues.
• Temperature Tolerance: Highly resilient to temperature fluctuations, the Coontie Palm can withstand both heat and occasional cold snaps. It is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11, making it a dependable choice for southern landscapes with mild winters.
• Distinctive Appearance: Featuring arching, feather-like fronds that grow in a dense, circular pattern, the Coontie Palm creates an elegant, tropical aesthetic. Its deep green, leathery leaves add a rich texture to landscapes, and its compact, clumping growth habit makes it a standout in garden beds and naturalized plantings.
• Soil Preferences: Well-draining soil is essential for healthy growth. The Coontie Palm flourishes in sandy, loamy, or rocky soils and is well-suited for coastal landscapes. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, making it a versatile choice for various garden settings.