Coontie

Zamia integrifolia L.f.

ZAY-mee-uh in-teg-rah-FOAL-ee-ah

Cycads -Zamiaceae

Explanation of name: Zamia means pine nut. Integrifolia means entire (unlobed, untoothed) leaf.

For current taxonomic treatment see: http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=233501359

Also see:

http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/cycadpg?taxname=Zamia+integrifolia

For general information, including cultivation:

http://cycadjungle.8m.com/cycadjungle/The Coontie of Florida.html

Natural range: Florida, Georgia (WH2). Perception of range depends on taxonomic interpretation.

Recognition: Small native Zamia with narrow (often about ½”) untoothed or nearly untoothed leaflets on arching pinnate leaves. Plants dioecious with male or female cones.

Synonyms: This species is highly variable geographically, leading to varied taxonomic interpretations and corresponding synonymy. Variants retain their differences in common garden experiments (WH2). Additional names encountered for this species include: Zamia pumila L. (interpreted by some as a separate Caribbean species not in Florida), and Z. floridana A. DC.

Landscape uses: Small, native cycad with historical and biological interest as source of laundry starch and edible starch after removal of toxins. Useful in mass plantings or as a small specimen plant. According to the third Internet source cited above: partial shade is best; sun is fine; the soil must be well drained; the greatest fertilization needs are early spring and summer in advance of cone production.