Ceratozamia hildae

Ceratozamia hildae, also known as the "Bamboo Cycad" is native to Mexico, in the states of San Luis Potosi, and Queretaro, where it grows in oak cloud forests and other cloud forests at altitudes of 3000-4500 feet. So, it is very cold-tolerant, down to at least 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Ceratozamia hildae is the only cycad with clustered leaflets. These form bow-tie shapes on lime-green leaves. Its trunk creates multiple offsets, resulting in a clumping habit.

Although Ceratozamia hildae is nearly extinct in habitat, due to pressure from plant collectors, it has been propagated and grown successfully to become well-established in nurseries and gardens throughout the USA.

Ceratozamia hildae prefers partial shade. It is a medium-sized cycad, with a trunk growing to 1-1.5 feet tall, and leaves to 5-6 feet long. Ceratozamia hildae prefers a warm, moist, sheltered location with good drainage. It can reach coning size 5 years from seed.