Zamiaceae

Zamiaceae is a family of cycads, which are gymnospermous plants. These plants are characterized by their palm-like appearance, although they are not true palms. Zamiaceae is one of only two extant families in the order Cycadales, the other being Cycadaceae. The family is distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with notable centers of diversity in Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Members of Zamiaceae are perennial, evergreen plants that typically have a short, stout trunk, often subterranean, from which a crown of large, compound leaves emerges. These leaves are pinnately compound, resembling fern fronds. The reproductive structures of Zamiaceae are cones. Male cones bear pollen, and female cones bear ovules which develop into seeds. Both male and female cones are usually borne on separate individuals, meaning the plants are dioecious. The seeds are often large and fleshy. Many species within Zamiaceae are of ecological importance in their native habitats, providing food and shelter for wildlife. Some species are also cultivated as ornamental plants. However, many Zamiaceae species are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss and overcollection.