A massive Australian native cycad developing a thick trunk to several metres, crowned with a huge symmetrical rosette of stiff arching fronds. A dramatic long-lived feature; seeds are toxic to pets.
At a glance
- Plant type: Palm or cycad
- Mature size: 5 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Moore's Cycad
Botanically, Macrozamia moorei is a slow-growing palm or cycad in the Zamiaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 5 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Moore's Cycad
Moore's Cycad suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Moore's Cycad does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Moore's Cycad is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Moore's Cycad in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Moore's Cycad in the garden
Moore's Cycad earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Moore's Cycad with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Moore's Cycad
Plant Sale lists Moore's Cycad as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.