Zamia integrifolia
Coontie
Genus: Zamia · Family: Zamiaceae
45· Uncommon
About
The only cycad native to the continental United States. Small palm-like appearance with underground stem. Historically used by Native Americans for starch extraction.
Native Regions
USA, Florida, Georgia, Caribbean
Height Range
0.5-1.5m
Growth Form
Underground trunk with leaf rosette
CITES Listing
Appendix II
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat Type
Pine flatwoods; coastal hammocks; sandy soils
Origin & Distribution
Florida; Georgia USA (only Zamia in Nearctic realm); Caribbean
Key Characteristics
- Small palm-like appearance
- underground stem
- historically used for starch
Distinct Features
- Only cycad native to continental USA
- host plant for Atala butterfly
References
Sources: Wikipedia: Zamia
Image Source: iNaturalist
Community Photos