Kauri Cycad
macrozamia moorei
Also known as: ["Kauri Cycad","Macrozamia moorei"]
Overview
A large, slow-growing cycad native to eastern Australia, known for its stout trunk and large, pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Cycadophyta |
| Class: | Cycadopsida |
| Order: | Cycadales |
| Family: | Zamiaceae |
| Genus: | Macrozamia |
| Botanical Name: | Macrozamia moorei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix with coarse sand, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or biannually.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates full sun in cooler climates but requires acclimation.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatechallenging
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if soil compacts.
Temperature
Prefers 18–29°C (64–84°F). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions. Protect from extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain stable temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer during active growth
Apply fertilizer evenly around the root zone; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula with micronutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds are the primary method. Rarely propagated by offsets if available.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Soak seeds for 24 hours.
- Nick hard seed coat.
- Plant 2–3 cm deep.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
- Transplant when seedlings are robust.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C/68–77°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of coarse sand, peat, and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds, but rooting hormone can aid offset propagation.
Timeline
Seeds may take 6–12 months to germinate and several years to establish. Offsets root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, sandpaper, plastic pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Patience is key with seeds; use bottom heat to speed germination; protect young plants from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into the trunk.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove only dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger fronds), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut dead/damaged fronds at base; avoid trunk damage; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth phase begins.
Pot Size
+2–3 cm in diameter; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a pot 2–3 cm larger with fresh, well-draining soil, water lightly, and avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 3–5 years. Cycads grow slowly and prefer being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to once monthly in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of older leaves in cold stress; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration if prolonged below 5°C (41°F).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during frosts. Mulch the root zone to insulate against cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 35°C/95°F) can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a slow-release palm or cycad fertilizer in spring, diluted to half-strength for monthly applications during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicMacrozamia moorei is toxic to cats, with cycasin posing significant risks to their health. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological complications, potentially resulting in organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxins in Macrozamia moorei, particularly cycasin, are harmful to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological damage. Prolonged exposure can lead to organ failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMacrozamia moorei contains toxins such as cycasin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with protein synthesis and can lead to liver and kidney damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Macrozamia moorei toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How fast does Macrozamia moorei grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, taking many years to reach maturity.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Macrozamia moorei?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 4–6 weeks during activ |
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