Lucayan zamia (Zamia lucayana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Lucayan zamia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Zamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Lucayan zamia
Zamia lucayana is a cycad endemic to the Bahamas, characterized by its robust subterranean or short trunks and its bright green, pinnate leaves that grow in a rosette. Its prehistoric appearance and resilience make it ideal for tropical gardens, rockeries, or as an accent plant in large pots, adding an exotic and long-lasting touch.
Native range
Bahamas
Care tips
It requires full or partial sunlight, adapting well to direct sun conditions. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings to avoid waterlogging, to which it is very sensitive. Use a well-draining, sandy, or cycad-specific substrate. Avoid excessive humidity and cold temperatures, as these can lead to root rot and foliage damage.
How to save a dying Lucayan zamia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, soft leaves, soft stem, rot at the base.
- First aid
- Remove dead leaves, check roots (cut rotten ones), repot in draining substrate, suspend watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and substrate that retains too much moisture, leading to root rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't reached the main stem. Act quickly.