Quick answer: Coontie (Zamia pumila) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically , verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry, low water use |
| Soil | Well-drained soil with light, organic cover |
| Bloom | Jul-Aug |
| Height | Up to 3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Larval host for Atala butterfly, seeds eaten by mockingbirds, blue jays, and other birds, insects, small mammals |
Roots toxic when taken internally without sufficient preparation
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Coontie
Where is Coontie native?
Coontie (Zamia pumila) is native to Florida. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Coontie bloom?
Coontie blooms Jul-Aug. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Coontie need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry, low water use. Soil: Well-drained soil with light, organic cover. Mature height: Up to 3 ft.
Is Coontie good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Larval host for Atala butterfly, seeds eaten by mockingbirds, blue jays, and other birds, insects, small mammals.
Is Coontie deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Coontie is drought-tolerant.
Is Coontie toxic?
Roots toxic when taken internally without sufficient preparation.
Where can I buy real Coontie seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Zamia pumila on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Coontie.
- Leavenworth's tickseed Coreopsis leavenworthii
- Adam's needle Yucca filamentosa
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
- Sundial lupine Lupinus perennis
- Fragrant sumac Rhus aromatica
- Partridge pea Chamaecrista fasciculata
Also listed under
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