Consulta Plantas

Care of the cycad Macrozamia communis or Burrawang

The genus Macrozamia, family Zamiaceae, comprises 40 species of cycads native to Australia. Some species are: Macrozamia communis, Macrozamia johnsonii, Macrozamia moorei, Macrozamia fraseri, Macrozamia macdonnellii.

Common name: Burrawang. This species is native to Australia.

They are medium-sized cycads with a woody trunk and a rounded crown that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The leaves are arched and have elegant, sharp, bright green leaflets with spines at the base. These dioecious plants produce female and male seed cones on separate plants.

They are used as isolated specimens, in undergrowths, next to waterways and in pots as indoor plants, greenhouse plants, and patio and terrace plants.

Macrozamia communis prefers a light exposure but without direct sun and hot, humid climates. In winter the temperature should not be less than 10 ºC (50 ºF).

The soil can be a substrate for indoor plants with 20% coarse sand. Transplant in late spring when the roots appear under the pot.

During the summer water (with water without lime) frequently but without flooding. The rest of the year water enough so that the substrate does not dry out completely. The humidity should be medium-high: place a plate with damp pebbles under the pot and spray the plant occasionally in summer.

Fertilize with compost in early spring.

Prune only to remove dry fronds (leaves).

They can be attacked by mealybugs in summer if the humidity is low.

Propagation from seed is a very slow process; new plants are best purchased at garden centers, nurseries, or plant stores.

Images of the cycad Macrozamia communis or Burrawang