A compact cycad with low spreading fronds of thick, fuzzy, cardboard-textured leaflets radiating from a short trunk. A tough, drought-hardy feature for pots and coastal gardens; toxic to pets if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Palm or cycad
- Mature size: 1 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Cardboard Palm
Botanically, Zamia furfuracea is a slow-growing palm or cycad in the Zamiaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Cardboard Palm
Cardboard Palm suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Cardboard Palm 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
Cardboard Palm is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. 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 Cardboard Palm in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Cardboard Palm in the garden
Cardboard Palm earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Cardboard Palm with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and tropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Cardboard Palm
Plant Sale lists Cardboard Palm as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.