Scientific Name
Zamia spp.
Common Name
Coontie, Florida arrowroot

TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN.

Characteristics

Family
Zamiaceae
Plant Description
Low, evergreen plants with fern-like, pinnately divided leaves and erect cones; seeds fleshy, orange-yellow or reddish.
Origin
Southeastern US.
Where Found
Houseplant or interiorscape.
Mode
Ingestion.
Poisonous Part
Fleshy seeds.
Symptoms
Headache, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea.
Edibility
EDIBLE PARTS: Processed flour made from the root is not toxic and is made into bread and spaghetti.
Toxic Principle
Glycoside.
Severity
TOXIC ONLY IF LARGE QUANTITIES EATEN.

"Poisonous Plants of North Carolina," Dr. Alice B. Russell, Department of Horticultural Science; Dr. James W. Hardin, Botany; Dr. Larry Grand, Plant Pathology; and Dr. Angela Fraser, Family and Consumer Sciences; North Carolina State University. All Pictures Copyright @1997Alice B. Russell, James W. Hardin, Larry Grand. Computer programming, Miguel A. Buendia; graphics, Brad Capel.

Disclaimer: The list of poisonous plants on this web site does not necessarily include every poisonous plant that is known, or that might be found in an urban landscape or home. North Carolina State University does not advise eating any of the plants included in this web site. The information concerning edibility is taken from the literature, and the degree of reliability is unknown. We discourage the use of any of these plants for self medication. In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, contact the Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222.

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