Macrozamia communis, commonly known as Burrawang or Burrawang Palm, is a type of cycad native to the eastern regions of Australia, particularly in New South Wales. This ancient plant belongs to the Zamiaceae family and has a history dating back millions of years, making it a living fossil. Despite its palm-like appearance, it is not a true palm but a cycad, which are primitive seed plants.
The Burrawang typically grows as a low, trunkless plant with a large underground stem. It produces a crown of glossy, dark green, pinnate leaves that can reach up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) in length. The leaves are stiff and arch gracefully, giving the plant a tropical look. The plant is slow-growing and long-lived, with some specimens living for hundreds of years.
🌿 Ancient Living Fossil: Macrozamia communis is dioecious, meaning that male and female cones are produced on separate plants. The male cones are cylindrical and produce pollen, while the female cones are larger, more rounded, and contain seeds. The seeds are large, bright red, and covered with a fleshy outer layer. While the seeds are toxic if consumed raw, they were traditionally processed by Indigenous Australians to remove toxins and used as a food source.
With its stunning dark green foliage, slow growth habit, and remarkable longevity, Macrozamia communis is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a unique, low-maintenance plant that adds botanical prestige and ancient beauty to any landscape.