Zamiaceae

Zamiaceae is a family of cycads, which are ancient, palmlike gymnospermous plants that existed during the Mesozoic Era. This family includes the genus Zamia and is often considered part of the larger Cycadaceae family.12

Cycads are characterized by their large, compound leaves and cones. They typically have unbranched trunks, though some have partially buried, swollen stems. Cycads reproduce via wind-pollinated pollen from male cones to female cones on separate plants.2

The genus Zamia, within the Zamiaceae family, comprises about 55 species native to tropical and subtropical America. These plants are known for their turnip-like stems and are sometimes cultivated as ornamentals. Certain Zamia species, like the coontie (Zamia integrifolia), are a source of starchy food. Many Zamia species are endangered.23