Macrozamia moorei – A Blue green cycad for landscaping.
One rarely found cycad is Macrozamia moorei. It looks a little like cross between a palm tree and a fern, its neither, its a cycad. Commonly called the ‘Burrawang’ or ‘Moores Cycad’ this is a sought after landscaping plant.
Native to the coastal forests of New South Wales to Queensland, this is slow growing species that over time will reach 3m in height with a similar spread. With a natural arching habit, a mature specimen looks a little like a small palm tree.
Foliage is keeled, blue green in colour and on mature specimens with developed foliage, a strong arching habit.
Propagation
Easy from seed although germination can be slow, taking up to 2 years. Initial growth rate after germination is medium.
- Sow seeds needs in in a free draining potting mix.
- Seeds trays of pots should be placed in a lightly shaded warm position.
- Water regularly until germination.
- Pot up into individual pots as seedlings reach a reasonable size.
- Maintain good drainage and moisture.
Seed can be harvested from the prominent seed cones when fully ripened.
You are not likely to find a fully grown plant for sale at a a bargain price. Usually sold at potted specimens, as well as un-rooted caudex, the potted specimens are more expensive, however have a better survival rate.
All larger specimens are harvested, and they do need to have the appropriate CITES certificate when offered for sale. Also offered as ‘sprouted seedlings’.
Macrozamia moorei is a versatile plant in terms of temperature, it grows well in sub tropical climates however it terms of cold hardiness, it will survive spells down to -5 C. Extended cold, freezes and heavy frosts will cause damage.
Macrozamia moorei Care
Macrozamia moorei grows naturally in sandstone areas, usually in dappled shade. They will grow in full sun, however the conditions of a dry sclerophyll forest are the best.
They also grow in areas with summer rainfall, so controlled watering may be required.
Try to mimic these conditions for successful care.
- Well drained soil.
- Patchy light (Dappled Shade)
- Water in summer – Dry Winters
