Cardboard Palm – Zamia furfuracea

A very robust landscaping plant which will grow in full sun to part shade. The leaves are long and tend to remain horizontal (especially if grown in shade) with rounded leaflets which are particularly stiff and thick with a furry texture.

Zamia furfuracea is also known as Cardboard palm. Is a small cycad with a partly underground, simple or rarely branched, cylindrical trunk. Bears terminal whorls of semi-erect to spreading, pinnate leaves, to 1m long, each with up to 24 oblong or inversely lance-shaped to obovate, stiff, pale green leaflets, later olive-green, with red-brown hairs. Produces felted, red-brown female flower cones, 10-13cm long, usually in summer.

SKU: APPA211155 Category:
Additional Information

A popular addition to landscape design in Dubai, the Cardboard Palm thrives in the UAE's warm climate and is valued for its exceptional drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature. Its sculptural form complements modern garden landscape design, villa landscaping, residential landscaping, commercial landscape development, and sustainable landscape design projects across Dubai and the UAE. Whether used as a standalone feature or combined with other tropical plants, it delivers year-round greenery and timeless appeal. Although often called a palm, the Cardboard Palm is botanically a cycad and performs well in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.

Key Features

The Cardboard Palm offers a distinctive architectural look while remaining easy to maintain, making it an excellent choice for both residential and commercial landscapes.

  • Thick, textured evergreen foliage
  • Unique architectural growth habit
  • Compact and symmetrical appearance
  • Excellent feature plant for modern landscapes
  • Highly drought-tolerant once established
  • Suitable for gardens, patios, entrances, villas, and commercial spaces
  • Thrives in warm climatic conditions
  • Provides year-round ornamental appeal
Care & Maintenance

The Cardboard Palm is a hardy plant that performs best in bright locations with well-draining soil. Once established, it requires only occasional watering and minimal maintenance, making it an excellent option for residential landscaping, commercial landscape development, and sustainable landscape design across Dubai and the UAE. Avoid excessive watering, as the plant stores moisture in its trunk and roots, making it more tolerant of dry conditions than wet soil.

  • Plant in full sun or partial shade
  • Use well-draining sandy or fertile soil
  • Water only when the soil has dried out
  • Avoid overwatering and waterlogged conditions
  • Feed with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season
  • Remove old or damaged leaves to maintain appearance
  • Ensure proper drainage around the root zone
  • Inspect periodically for common pests and overall plant health