Dioon spinulosum

Dioon spinulosum
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Cycadophyta
Class: Cycadopsida
Order: Cycadales
Family: Zamiaceae
Genus: Dioon
Species: D. spinulosum
Binomial name
Dioon spinulosum
Dyer ex Eichler

Dioon spinulosum, giant dioon, or gum palm, is a cycad endemic to limestone cliffs and rocky hillsides in the tropical rainforests of Veracruz and Oaxaca, Mexico.[1][2] It is one of the tallest cycads in the world, growing to 12m in height. The tree is found at low elevations to 300 m above sea level.[1]

Dioon spinulosum prefers well-drained soil with regular water. It will grow in soils containing few nutrients, in soils rich in limestone, and on slopes. It is hardy to USDA Zones 9B – 11.

Dioon spinulosum has pinnate leaves that grow to about 5-7 ft (1.5-2.1 m) in length and radiate out from the trunk. The 120-240 leaflets on each leaf are small and flat, have small thorns and taper to a sharp point.

References and external links

  1. ^ a b Whitelock, Loran M. (2002). The Cycads. Portland, Oregon: Timber Press. pp. 532. ISBN 978-0881925227. 
  2. ^ Walters, Terrence; Osborne, Roy, eds (2004). Cycad Classification: Concepts and Recommendations. Portland, Oregon: CAB International. pp. 288. ISBN 978-0851997414.