the genus
CERATOZAMIA

From the Greek "ceras", horn, and "azaniae", cone, in reference to the paired spine-like projections on the "sporophylls" (cones) of male and female plants in this genus.

Family: Zamiaceae
Subfamily: Zamioideae
Tribe: Ceratozamieae

The tribe includes only the single genus Ceratozamia

This is a small genus of about 11 cycads native in Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala, often growing on limestone soils. The new leaves emerge in attractive flushes from early to late summer, usually tinted strongly with red or brownish tones. This makes a showy contrast to the lush greenery of the mature leaves, which carry numerous flattened leaflets attached to lax petioles with a few prickles near the base. Several species of Ceratozamia from the sierras of eastern Mexico have proven very hardy to frost. When well grown, these are among the most elegant of the cycads.

Culture: Ceratozamia species accept morning or half day sun, but are most luxuriant when grown under shaded conditions. Established plants tolerate drought. Good drainage and shelter from wind are essential.

Ceratozamia hildae
Common Name: Bamboo Cycad
Cold Tolerance: 23F (-5C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 2.5'-6' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 7-15gal.

Ceratozamia kuesteriana
Common Name: Cloud Forest Cycad
Cold Tolerance: 18F (-8C) USDA Zones: 8b-11

Typical Height: 3.5'-6' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 7-15gal.

Ceratozamia mexicana
Common Name: Mexican Horncone Cycad
Cold Tolerance: 23F (-5C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 3.5'-6' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 3-15gal.

Ceratozamia robusta
Cold Tolerance: 23F (-5C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 3'-6' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 3-15gal.

Other Species of Ceratozamia:
C. latifolia, C. microstobila (in stock),
C. miqueliana, C. sabatoi (occasionally available),
C. norstogii (on request), C. whitelockiana (looking for)