Zamia pumila

Zamia pumila is a clumping cycad which usually starts out with one stem.    It will slowly form a multi-branched cluster. It also forms a large tuberous root, which is an extension of the above-ground stem.

Zamia pumila is easy to grow and a very popular plant in cultivation. Because of its ruggedness, low maintenance and drought tolerance it is commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions. This species is rather fast and in good conditions can speed it up considerably and could go from seed to coning size plants in 3-4 years. This plant may be cultivated as an indoor plant in temperate countries.

Exposition: It prefers filtered sunlight to partial shade as colour bleaches when in full sun; best with some protection from afternoon heat but not in constant deep shade. Generally speaking the plants that are in a situation under shrubs are more vigorous.

Soil: Needs a well drained sandy or sandy loam spot, with deep soil, neutral or basic (tolerate limestone) but will still thrive in less than ideal conditions. Mulch with organic materials (bark or leaf mould).
Moisture: Water when dry. Drought tolerant.
Fertilization. Because of its growth habit, fertilize only when terminal bud begins to swell, indicating the start of the annual growth cycle.
Hardiness: It should be protected from extreme cold.        Sustains leaf damage at -2° C.

As cycads go, this species is rather fast, and so before too long you can have a very nice-looking plant.