Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. Outdoors, it thrives in full sun to partial shade. Indoors, place it near a bright window with plenty of indirect light. Too much direct sunlight indoors may scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause slow or stunted growth.
Watering Needs: Water when the top 2–3 inches of soil are dry. This plant is drought-tolerant and should not be overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and reduce frequency in cooler months or when growth slows.
Soil Preference: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix, or a gritty potting mix amended with sand or perlite. Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soil, which can lead to root rot.
How to Fertilize: Fertilize during the growing season (spring through early fall) with a balanced, slow-release or diluted liquid fertilizer every 6–8 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy.
Hardiness Zone: Suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 9–11. It is sensitive to frost and should be brought indoors or protected if temperatures drop below 30°F (–1°C).
Pet Safety: Highly toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. Contains cycasin, a toxin that can cause severe liver failure and even death if ingested. All parts of the plant are toxic—keep completely out of reach of pets and children.
Additional Care Tips: Zamia furfuracea is a slow-growing cycad with thick, leathery, fuzzy leaves resembling cardboard, hence the name. It stores water in its underground caudex and is highly tolerant of drought and heat once established. It may produce cones, especially in warm climates, though flowering is rare indoors. Avoid disturbing the roots or repotting frequently. Propagate by seed if available, though germination is slow.
