zamia is a genus of shrubs native to the Americas, particularly tropical areas. Of particular interest to gardeners is the Zamia furfuracea, or the cardboard palm—a small, upright bush with thick leaves that radiate outward from its truck.Despite its name, the cardboard palm is not a palm tree—its name comes from its growth habits, which are similar to those of palms. Many species in the Zamia genus resemble palms, especially because of their turgid leaves. Cardboard palms are cone-producing bushes with extremely stiff, flat foliage that grows to about 3 feet tall at their highest. Zamia furfuracea is fairly tough and does not require much care—in temperate environments, it can be grown as a houseplant, and in subtropical areas, it can be grown outdoors. Though the cardboard palm is considered at-risk because it is frequently illegally obtained fully grown in the wild, it can be bought already grown or as seeds online or in many nurseries. If you plan on growing Zamia furfuracea, be forewarned: all parts of the plant are highly toxic. Make sure to keep it away from your pets.
