Coontie

Coontie (Zamia integrifolia) is a slow-growing Florida-native cycad with green, fern-like leaves. Although it resembles a small palm, it is not a true palm. It typically grows 2–3 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide,forming a rounded evergreen plant. In Southwest Florida, it is commonly used in native gardens, butterfly gardens, foundation beds, and low-maintenance landscapes. 

Coontie grows in full sun toshade and prefers well-drained soil. It adapts to Southwest Florida's sandy conditions and tolerates coastal salt exposure. Plants grown in partial shade often develop longer, darker green leaves.​

​For landscape planting, space Coontie approximately 3–4 feet apart, depending on the starting size and desired coverage. It can be planted individually or in groups beneath trees and along gardenborders. Newly planted Coontie needs regular watering while its roots become established. Mature plants tolerate extended dry periods and generally require additional irrigation only during prolongeddrought. Avoid areas where water collects after heavy rainfall.​

​Coontie is the native host plant for the Atala butterfly. Its caterpillars feed on the leaves and may remove large amounts of foliage. Healthy, established plants can produce new leaves afterfeeding. This plant requires minimal pruning. Remove older leaves once fully brown. Female plants may produce cones containing orange-red seeds.​

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Why You'll Love It​

Supports Atala Butterflies: Serves as the native host plant for Atala butterfly caterpillars, providing an important food source during their development.​

Florida-Native Plant: Naturally adapted to Florida's growing conditions, including sandy soils, seasonal dry weather, and coastal environments.​

Drought Tolerance: Established plants tolerate extended dry periods and require minimal supplemental irrigation under suitable conditions.​

Compact Evergreen Growth: Develops a low, rounded clump that provides year-round foliage without frequent trimming.​

Sun Requirements: Grows in full sun to shade, making it suitable for both open landscape beds and areas beneath established trees.​

Water Needs: Requires regular watering during establishment. Mature plants generally need additional irrigation only during extended drought.​

Mature Size: Approximately 2–3 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide, depending on growing conditions.​

Best Uses: Native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, shaded foundation beds, coastal landscapes, mass plantings, under-tree gardens, and low-maintenance borders.​