Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Fairchild's Zamia (Zamia fairchildiana) is a stunning cycad with stiff, upright fronds, producing striking cone-like structures. Native to Panama, it thrives in warm, hum
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
50% intensity
Prefers well-draining soil; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
Light feeder.
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Fairchild's Zamia thoroughly when the top 5-7 cm of soil is dry. Reduce watering significantly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogging, as this plant is susceptible to fungal diseases if kept too wet.
Pruning Fairchild's Zamia is generally minimal, focused on removing dead or damaged fronds. Cut these back to the base of the plant as they appear. This maintains the plant's aesthetic and health.
Avoid severe pruning, as it can stress the cycad.
Propagation of Zamia fairchildiana is primarily done through offsets or suckers that naturally form at the base of mature plants.
Carefully separate these with a sharp knife, ensuring they have roots, and plant them in well-draining soil. Patience is key, as they grow slowly.
Repot Fairchild's Zamia when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. Use a well-draining, gritty soil mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Fairchild’s Zamia (Zamia fairchildiana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Cycadopsida |
| Order | Cycadales |
| Family | Zamiaceae |
| Genus | Zamia |
| Species | Zamia fairchildiana |
Similar in genus Zamia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
