Cycads are the most primitive of the cone-bearing plants. They are found as fossils in rocks of the late Triassic and early Jurassic periods when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Although they look like palms, they are more closely related to the conifers than to any other group. In the centre of their leaf crowns, they bear large cones that can weigh up to 50 pounds, and are either male or female.

Cycads are tolerant of a wide range of conditions and live to a great age. Their survival over millions of years is due to their environmental tolerance, to their wound-healing capacity, and to their resistance to pests and diseases. Sadly, many species are now endangered and their continued survival is seriously threatened by human activity.