the genus
LEPIDOZAMIA

From the Greek "lepis", scale, and "azaniae", cone, in reference to the scale like pattern of the cones and of the old frond bases which cover the stems of the species.

Family: Zamiaceae
Subfamily: Encephalartoideae
Tribe: Encephalarteae
Subtribe: Macrozamiinae

The subtribe includes only the single genus Macrozamia.

Lepidozamia is a small genus of two species of cycads distributed is eastern Austrialia. Both of the species are solitary and remain unbranched throughout life. The slender leaflets have no mid rib and join a smooth leaf stem (rachis), with the large, feathery leaves emerging in flushes alternating with cones (cataphylls). One of the species, Lepidozamia hopei, is the tallest of all cycads and in its sheltered tropical rainforest home may develop an erect trunk up to 60 feet tall. The other species, Lepidozamia peroffskyana, is more modest in height, to 20 feet, and more adaptable to exposed habitats, tolerating the moderate frosts common to its home in coastal New South Wales and Southern Queensland, an area with several other fairly hardy cycads.

Culture: Lepidozamia species grow well under shaded conditions. Established plants tolerate drought. Good drainage is essential.

Lepidozamia hopei
Cold Tolerance: 28F (-2C) USDA Zones: 10-11

Typical Height: 25'-35' Growth Rate: Fast
Habit: Solitary

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

Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Cold Tolerance: 23F (-5C) USDA Zones: 9b-11

Typical Height: 14'-20' Growth Rate: Fast
Habit: Solitary

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 1-20gal.