cycad-palm
Cycas media R.Br.
Cycas media, a member of the Cycadaceae family, is a palm-like plant native to eastern Queensland, with scattered occurrences in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical woodlands and is characterized by its dark green, thick, pinnately divided leaves that grow in annual flushes from a central bud. The plant is fire-tolerant and can regrow quickly after bushfires. All parts of the plant are toxic, but Aboriginal Australians historically consumed the seeds after extensive preparation to neutralize the toxins.
Description
Cycas media is a species of cycad found in tropical and subtropical regions of Australia, particularly in the eastern parts of Queensland. It is adapted to dry conditions and is often found in sclerophyll woodlands. The plant produces annual flushes of dark green, leathery leaves and is capable of rapid regrowth after fires. Despite its toxicity, the seeds were traditionally consumed by Indigenous Australians after thorough detoxification. This species is also cultivated globally and is known for its ornamental value in suitable climates.
Other common names
Queensland cycastree-zamiazamia-nutzamia-nut-palmcycad-palmnut-palmzamia palm
Distribution
Australia · Global · TW · Queensland
Synonyms
Cycas media f. inermis