Cardboard Palm
Zamia spp. · Cycadaceae
How it looks
Cardboard Palm (Zamia spp.) is a cycad whose thick, stiff leaves spread in a feather shape. The leaf texture is rough and hard like paper card stock. The leaves grow radially atop a short stem, and it is not a true palm.
Deadly — liver failure
Cardboard Palm (Cardboard Palm) is a cycad; all parts (especially the seeds) contain cycasin, and ingestion can lead to liver failure and death.
Guide for parents
Cardboard Palm (Cardboard Palm) 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 spp.
- Common name
- Cardboard Palm
- Family
- Cycadaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the seeds)
- Compounds
- Cycasin
- Source
- ASPCA
