Macrozamia riedlei
Macrozamia riedlei (Fisch. ex Gaudich.) C.A.Gardner
Macrozamia riedlei, a cycad in the family Zamiaceae, is native to southwest Australia and commonly found in jarrah forests. It can grow up to two metres tall, with long arching fronds and large cones containing edible seeds with a red sarcotesta. The seeds are consumed by wildlife and, when properly prepared, by humans. The plant forms a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which also produce toxins harmful to some animals. It is cultivated for ornamental purposes in urban and domestic settings.
Description
Macrozamia riedlei is a cycad species endemic to southwest Australia, often found in jarrah forests. It typically reaches a height of up to two metres, with long, arching fronds and large cones at the crown. The seeds, enclosed in a red sarcotesta, are edible after proper preparation and serve as a food source for birds, animals, and humans. The plant benefits from a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which also contribute to the production of toxins within the plant. These toxins can be harmful to certain animals. M. riedlei is also cultivated for ornamental use in urban and domestic environments.
Distribution
Australia · Global · Western Australia
Synonyms
Macrozamia preissiiMacrozamia oldfieldiiCycas riedleiEncephalartos oldfieldiiEncephalartos preissiiMacrozamia preissii subsp. preissii