Cycads

Cycads are a rare and extremely ancient group of plants. Fossil cycads are dated from the Lower Permian (270-280 million years ago). Cycads spread widely during the Jurassic period, also known as the "Age of Cycads". The 3 families now living can be traced far back in time.

Cycads are widely distributed across the globe and have long been used by the local people as food and medicine as they contain a large amount of starch in the roots, stem and seeds. However they are highly toxic, containing Cycasin and a nonprotein amino acid called BMAA, these toxins must be removed by extensive processing. If they are not properly processed they can cause vomiting, liver damage and even death; they may also have neurotoxic effects. Their slow growth and extensive processing is probably why they are not grown commercially.

Macrozamia moorei

This a majestic, tall species of Cycad and is distinguished by the semi-glossy to dark bluish green keeled leaves 10-250 cm long with short broad stems bearing numerous spines. Plants have grown to 2m tall from seed in less than 100 years. Plants are believed to cone in about 50 years. Since taller plants measure 8m, extrapolation would suggest that ages may exceed 400 years.

It grows in large colonies in open dry woodland and on shallow rocky poor soils. It is native to Australia and can be found in the Carnarvon Range of central Queensland.

The name honours Charles E. Moore, director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney and notable student of Macrozamia in the 1850's.

Macrozamia moorei is suited to tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate regions. It is a very hardy and versatile species which will adapt to a range of soils and climates providing that drainage is good.