Ceratozamia miqueliana
 
Common Names Miquel’s Horncone, Mexican Blue Cycad
 
Zones 10A–11
 
Ceratozamia miqueliana is a rare, critically endangered cycad endemic to the moist lowland forests of Chiapas and Veracruz, Mexico. Known for its elegant, arching leaves with broad, waxy leaflets, this species forms a bluish canopy due to its glaucous coating. It thrives in warm, shaded environments and is highly sought after for conservation collections and tropical understory designs.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright to arching; slow growth rate
Height: Up to 4 ft in leaf length; trunk to 12 in.
Trunk: Subterranean to short cylindrical; woody and stout
Leaves: Pinnate; up to 10 per crown; lime green with glaucous waxy coating
Petiole: Hairy; armed with small spines near base
Inflorescence: Separate male and female cones; cylindrical and horned
Fruit: Seeds enclosed in fleshy sarcotesta; not edible
Ecology: Native to rainforest slopes and swampy lowlands; critically endangered due to habitat loss
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Filtered shade to dappled sun; avoid direct midday exposure
Watering: Keep evenly moist; prefers high humidity
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix with organic matter; neutral to slightly acidic pH
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost
Humidity: High; misting or greenhouse conditions recommended
Propagation: By seed; slow germination and growth
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and drought; requires stable conditions
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical understory plantings, shaded cycad gardens, and conservation-focused collections. Pairs well with Zamia furfuracea, Chamaedorea metallica, and Calathea warscewiczii for layered texture and canopy contrast.