Coontie Palm

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-4 Feet

Mature Spread

2-4 Feet

Growing Zones

8 to 10

Coontie delivers ancient flair with modern ease. This Florida native cycad fans out satiny, deep-green leaflets from a low, clumping crown for sculptural texture that reads lush year-round. Slow, steady growth and drought stamina make it a set-and-forget accent indoors or out.

Plant one to anchor a pathway edge, repeat it in a coastal bed, or drop it into a statement pot by the door. Compact proportions fit small spaces, while wildlife-friendly credentials make it a smart, sustainable choice.

Coontie Care

Give full sun to bright, dappled light; 4–8 hours of sun outside, bright indirect light indoors. Plant in sharply drained, sandy or loamy soil, pH 6.0–7.5; never let the crown sit in water. Water deeply, then wait until the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry before watering again; once established, Coontie tolerates extended dry spells. Mulch 1–2 inches with coarse bark or gravel, keeping mulch a few inches off the crown.

Feed in spring and midsummer with a slow-release palm/cycad fertilizer that includes magnesium and manganese. Remove spent or storm-damaged fronds at the base—no shearing. Hardy in USDA Zones 8b–11; protect containers from prolonged cold below 45°F. Indoors, maintain 60–85°F and average household humidity.

Coontie Spacing

For a specimen, allow 3–4 ft of space for the clump to mound naturally. For mass plantings, set 24–30 in on center for a continuous, low understory. Keep 18–24 in from paths and driveways for safe leaflet clearance. In containers, start with a 12–16 in diameter pot (3–7 gal) with large drainage holes; step up to 16–20 in (7–10 gal) as the caudex enlarges. Indoors, position 3–6 ft from an east or south window; rotate the pot monthly for even form.

Why Grow Coontie?

• Native, water-wise cycad that thrives on neglect and heat
• Compact footprint (about 2–3 ft tall, 3–5 ft wide) for tight beds and patio pots
• Salt, wind, and drought tolerant once established—great for coastal landscapes
• Hosts the Atala butterfly while adding durable, year-round texture
• Deer-resistant foliage and minimal pruning for truly low maintenance

All parts are toxic if ingested; site away from pets and small children. Coontie plants are male or female; if cones form and you have pets, remove seed cones to avoid temptation.

Add Coontie to your cart for an easy, architectural evergreen that keeps beds looking intentional in every season. It’s the tough, tropical accent that makes any space feel curated.