the genus
MICROCYCAS

From the Greek "micro", for small, and "cycas", from the Greek "kykas" meaning palm, referring to the palm like growth habit.

Family: Zamiaceae
Subfamily: Zamioideae
Tribe: Zamieae
Subtribe: Microcycadinae

A small genus of only one species, Microcycas calocoma, the epithet derived from "calos", Greek for beautiful, and "come", hair, meaning beautiful crown of leaves. Microcycas are native to Cuba, from the western part of the Island in the Pinar del Rio province to the mountains northwest of San Diego de los Banos, over into the region near San Andrace. Typically they have solitary stems, but are sometimes branched due to damage caused by storms. The older specimens have a soft, cork-like bark that provides a degree of insulation from natural forest fires.

Culture: Microcycas grow in low, grassy to bushy hillsides and ravines, usually under trees and near streambeds. They prefer relatively dry areas with acid clay soil and elevations of 100 ft. - 300 ft.

Microcycas calocoma
Common Name: Palma Corcho - Spanish, referring to the soft, cork-like bark.
Cold Tolerance: 26F (-3C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 2'-33' Growth Rate: Moderate
Habit: Solitary

Status: Occasionally Available
Available Range: 1-10gal.