Cardboard Cycad
Zamia furfuracea · Cycadaceae
How it looks
Cardboard Cycad is a cycad whose thick, stiff leaves grow in a feather-like (pinnate) cluster. The leaves are thick and rough with a texture like cardboard, and stay rigid. The foliage spreads above a short trunk, growing 3–5 ft (1–1.5 m) tall. It is often mistaken for a palm.
Deadly — liver failure
Cardboard Cycad (Cardboard Cycad) is a cycad; all parts (especially the seeds) contain cycasin, and ingestion can lead to liver failure and death.
Guide for parents
Cardboard Cycad (Cardboard Cycad) is popular as a houseplant, but it's one of the most dangerous plants for cats. Don't bring it into your home. The seeds in particular are deadly even in small amounts, and even a chew or two on the leaves can start liver damage. If you suspect ingestion, head to a 24-hour animal hospital right away even if there are no symptoms. Liver toxicity typically shows its full effect 24–48 hours later.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 6–24 hours after ingestion (symptoms may be delayed)
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, liver failure, death
- Action
- Go to a 24-hour animal hospital immediately. Don't wait, even if there are no symptoms.
Details
- Scientific name
- Zamia furfuracea
- Common name
- Cardboard Cycad
- Family
- Cycadaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the seeds)
- Compounds
- Cycasin
- Source
- ASPCA
