Lacandon Zamia
zamia lacandona
Also known as: ["Lacandon Cycad","Lacandon Zamia Cycad"]
Overview
A rare cycad species native to the Lacandon Jungle in Mexico, characterized by its distinctive foliage and slow growth.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Cycadophyta |
| Class: | Cycadopsida |
| Order: | Cycadales |
| Family: | Zamiaceae |
| Genus: | Zamia |
| Botanical Name: | Zamia lacandona |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when fronds yellow/brown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade; adjust for stronger light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun, place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C); prefers stable temperatures, cooler in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate humidity in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup; use slow-release if preferred.
Propagation
Methods
By offsets (pups) or seed; division is the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset carefully, allow callusing, plant shallowly, water lightly, provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for offsets; recommended for seeds to improve germination.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 4–6 weeks; seeds take 6 months to a year to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent rot; keep offsets warm and humid; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Inspect fronds, sanitize tools, cut cleanly, dispose of debris, check for pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil degrades; every 2–3 years is typical.
Checklist
Check root health, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting, place in shade temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during growing season; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on soil dryness and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf burn, stunted growth, bud drop, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, ensure soil dries more slowly in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, potential dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute properly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Zamia lacandona, particularly cycasin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The roots, seeds, and stems are the most dangerous parts for feline ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Zamia lacandona can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential liver damage due to the presence of cycasin. The roots, seeds, and stems are the most toxic parts of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicZamia lacandona contains toxic compounds, including cycasin, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological effects upon ingestion. The plant's roots, seeds, and stems are particularly hazardous due to high concentrations of these toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Zamia lacandona toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Zamia lacandona?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Where is Zamia lacandona native to?
A: It is native to the Lacandon Jungle in Mexico.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zamiaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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