Walk into Carnarvon Gorge in central Queensland, and you walk into a landscape dominated by cycads. Lining the creek, climbing the slopes, standing like sentinels at the entrance to the national park — Macrozamia moorei owns the gorge. It is the tallest species in the genus Macrozamia — the largest exclusively Australian cycad genus, with around 40 species — reaching 7 to 9 metres with a massive columnar trunk up to 80 cm in diameter, crowned by a hundred or more gracefully arching, dark blue-green fronds. Where most Macrozamia species are small, trunkless plants hidden in the understorey, Macrozamia moorei stands in the open like a date palm — so convincingly that early botanists classified it in Encephalartos, the African palm-like cycad genus. A single large male plant can produce up to 100 cones simultaneously, and the female cones are the largest in the genus, barrel-shaped and up to 90 cm long. Botanically, it holds a singular place in cycad science: in 1913, Chamberlain demonstrated that Macrozamia moorei bears lateral cones in the axils of leaves — a character identical to the Mesozoic Bennettitales, the extinct “cycad-like” plants that dominated the Jurassic. This made it the nearest approach among living cycads to that vanished order. Described by Ferdinand von Mueller in 1881 and named for Charles Moore (1820–1905), director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, it is a plant that connects the Jurassic to the present — a living bridge across 170 million years of evolutionary time, still standing in the gorges of central Queensland.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Macrozamia moorei F.Muell. |
| Family | Zamiaceae |
| Origin | Central Queensland and NE New South Wales, Australia |
| Adult size | Trunk 2–7 m (to 9 m); 30–80 cm diameter; fronds 1.5–3 m |
| Hardiness | −5 to −7 °C (23 to 19 °F) / USDA zones 8b–11 |
| IUCN | Near Threatened (NT) |
| CITES | Appendix II (all cycads) |
| Cultivation difficulty | 2/5 |
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
Macrozamia moorei was described by Ferdinand von Mueller in 1881 in the Australasian Chemist and Druggist (4: 84), from material collected on the Nogoa River near Springsure in central Queensland. Bailey subsequently classified it formally in The Queensland Flora (1883). The species had initially been mentioned under Encephalartos (as a subgenus) — an understandable confusion given its tall, palm-like habit that closely resembles the African genus.
The specific epithet honours Charles Moore (1820–1905), director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney from 1848 to 1896 — one of the great figures of 19th-century Australian botany.
Relationships: Macrozamia moorei is closely related to Macrozamia johnsonii, with which it was long confused. Both belong to section Macrozamia (the arborescent, large-crowned species). They can be distinguished by leaf cross-section: Macrozamia moorei has keeled (V-shaped) leaves, while Macrozamia johnsonii has flat leaves. Both were traditionally placed in a species complex with Macrozamia macdonnellii (the MacDonnell Ranges cycad of central Australia), though recent phylotranscriptomic analysis suggests the relationships within this group are more complex than morphology alone implies.
The Bennettitales connection: in 1913, Chamberlain published a landmark study demonstrating that Macrozamia moorei bears numerous lateral cones in the axils of leaves — a character shared with the Mesozoic Bennettitales but absent in all other living cycads (where cones are terminal). This made Macrozamia moorei “the nearest approach to the Bennettitales” among living plants and cemented its status as a species of exceptional evolutionary interest.
Common names: Moore’s Cycad; no widely established vernacular name (the species is usually referred to by its scientific name).
Morphological Description
Macrozamia moorei is a large, dioecious, evergreen, palm-like cycad — the tallest species of Macrozamia.
Trunk: massive, columnar, mostly 2–5 m tall but reaching 7 m (to 9 m in exceptional specimens) with a diameter of 30–80 cm (sometimes exceeding 1 m). The trunk is clothed in persistent leaf bases forming a rough, textured surface. Unlike most Macrozamia species (which are acaulescent or have subterranean stems), Macrozamia moorei develops a prominently aerial, free-standing trunk from an early age. Plants have grown to 2 m tall from seed in less than 100 years; since plants 8 m tall are known, extrapolation suggests that maximum ages may exceed 400 years.
Leaves: up to 150 per crown in large specimens, pinnate, 1.5–3 m long and 30–60 cm wide, forming a large, rounded, date-palm-like crown. Young leaves are bright green; mature leaves become dark blue-green. The rachis is not twisted, yellowish, concave above, and — critically — keeled (V-shaped) beneath. This keel is the single most useful character for distinguishing Macrozamia moorei from the closely related Macrozamia johnsonii (which has a flat rachis). Petiole short (5–10 cm), swollen and woolly at the base.
Leaflets: 120–250 per leaf, moderately crowded, evenly distributed, inserted on the rachis at about 40°, with stomata on both surfaces. Median leaflets 20–40 cm long and 5–11 mm wide, linear, dark blue-green, tapering to a pungent (sharp-tipped) apex and contracting to a white callous base. Approximately 40 of the lowest leaflets are progressively reduced to a series of rigid, spine-like processes extending almost to the base of the rachis — a formidable armament.
Cones: the reproductive structures are exceptional in both size and number.
- Male cones: green to brownish, fusiform (spindle-shaped), straight or more usually curved, 25–45 cm long, 8–10 cm diameter. Sporophylls wedge-shaped with an erect apical spine 2–20 mm long. A large male plant can produce up to 100 cones simultaneously — an astonishing number, unmatched in any other Macrozamia species. The cones are borne laterally in the axils of leaves (the Bennettitales character documented by Chamberlain).
- Female cones: green, barrel-shaped, 40–90 cm long, 12–20 cm diameter, with sporophylls bearing an apical spine up to 7 cm long. One to eight per plant. These are the largest cones in the genus.
Seeds: ovoid, 4–6 cm long, 2.5–4 cm wide, with a red to scarlet sarcotesta. Highly toxic.
Reproductive maturity: plants begin producing cones at approximately 50 years of age.
Similar Species and Common Confusions
| Character | Macrozamia moorei | Macrozamia johnsonii | Macrozamia macdonnellii |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum height | 7–9 m | Up to 5–6 m | 3–4 m |
| Leaf cross-section | Keeled (V-shaped) | Flat | Keeled |
| Leaf colour | Dark blue-green | Bright green to yellow-green | Blue-green (glaucous) |
| Male cones per plant | Up to 100 | Up to ~50 | Variable |
| Distribution | Central QLD + NE NSW | SE QLD + NE NSW | Central Australia (NT) |
| Habitat | Gorges, rocky slopes, dry sclerophyll | Wet sclerophyll, rainforest margins | Arid gorges, sandstone |
The confusion with Macrozamia johnsonii is the most common and the most consequential for growers. Both are large, arborescent cycads with massive crowns of dark green fronds. The diagnostic: hold a leaf up and look at the underside of the rachis. If it is keeled (V-shaped), it is Macrozamia moorei; if flat, it is Macrozamia johnsonii. The blue-green colour of M. moorei foliage (vs. the brighter, more yellow-green of M. johnsonii) is also helpful but less reliable.
Distribution and Natural Habitat
Macrozamia moorei occurs in central Queensland — west of Rockhampton around the Emerald, Springsure, Rolleston, Taroom, and Injune districts — and extends into Carnarvon Gorge (Carnarvon National Park), which is the species’ iconic stronghold. A disjunct occurrence is reported in the Clarence River district of New South Wales, near the upper Richmond River, where it grows in tall wet sclerophyll forest and at the margins of rainforest on steep slopes.
The species grows at 300–500 m altitude on low hills in dry sclerophyll forest, at the edge of rainforest, in woodland, and in the valleys and escarpments of rocky gorges on shallow, rocky soils. It forms large, scattered colonies but rarely a well-defined understorey layer — typically standing individually or in loose groups in very scenic rocky terrain. In Carnarvon Gorge, it dominates the landscape from the park entrance to the cliff base, co-occurring with an undescribed Livistona palm.
Climate in the native range:
| Parameter | Central QLD (Springsure–Carnarvon district) |
|---|---|
| Mean annual temperature | 18–22 °C |
| Summer diurnal range | 21–35 °C |
| Winter diurnal range | 6–23 °C |
| Frost | Severe frosts common |
| Annual rainfall | ~500 mm (summer-dominant) |
| Köppen classification | BSh (semi-arid) to Cfa (humid subtropical) |
This is a continental, semi-arid climate with extreme temperature swings — hot summers and cold winters with regular severe frosts. Annual rainfall is low (~500 mm) and strongly summer-dominant. This climate profile makes Macrozamia moorei one of the most cold-hardy and drought-tolerant of all large arborescent cycads — a remarkable combination for a genus often associated with subtropical rainforest.
Conservation
Macrozamia moorei is listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List. The species occurs in large colonies but has been affected by habitat loss due to land clearing, and some plants have been removed as part of salvage operations. The relatively restricted range in central Queensland (compared to the widespread Macrozamia communis) makes it more vulnerable to localised threats.
The iconic Carnarvon Gorge population is protected within Carnarvon National Park, providing a critical stronghold. However, populations on private land outside protected areas remain at risk from agricultural development.
Cultivation
| Hardiness | −5 to −7 °C (23 to 19 °F) / USDA zones 8b–11 |
| Light | Full sun (preferred); tolerates partial shade but best in full exposure |
| Soil | Well-drained; tolerates rocky, shallow soils and limestone |
| Watering | Drought-tolerant; water when dry |
| Adult size | Trunk 2–7 m; crown spread 3–4 m |
| Growth rate | Slow to moderate (2 m from seed in ~100 years; accelerates once trunk forms) |
| Difficulty | 2/5 |
Macrozamia moorei is one of the most rewarding cycads for cultivation — a species that combines the grandeur of a large arborescent cycad with remarkable hardiness and drought tolerance. It is easy to grow, adapts well to diverse climates and soils, and develops into a spectacular specimen plant that resembles a date palm in silhouette.
Light: full sun is preferred. Unlike the understorey Macrozamia communis, this is an open-habitat species in the wild, and in cultivation it performs best with full exposure. It tolerates partial shade but may become leggy and less well-formed. In hot, arid climates, some afternoon protection can reduce leaf scorch, but the species naturally endures summer temperatures of 35 °C+.
Soil: well-drained, but otherwise undemanding. In habitat, the species grows on shallow, rocky, often nutrient-poor soils. In cultivation, sandy or sandy loam soils with good drainage are ideal. The species tolerates limestone — the native habitat includes areas with calcareous substrates.
Watering: strongly drought-tolerant. The native range receives only ~500 mm annual rainfall, mostly in summer. In cultivation, water when dry during the growing season; reduce in winter. Overwatering is far more dangerous than underwatering.
Cold hardiness: this is one of the most cold-hardy arborescent cycads in the world. The native habitat experiences severe frosts (winter lows of 6 °C mean, with regular sub-zero events). Cultivated specimens tolerate −5 to −7 °C without significant damage. But USDA zone 9b, for a long term cultivation. The species is successfully grown outdoors in areas of southern California, southern Australia (including Melbourne), and southern Europe where frosts are regular but not prolonged. However, the aerial trunk means the apical meristem is exposed — unlike the subterranean trunk of Macrozamia communis, there is no soil insulation. Juvenile plants with small or no visible trunk are more vulnerable to severe cold than established specimens.
Growth pattern: very slow in the juvenile phase — a seedling may take decades to form a visible trunk. Once the trunk is established, the species accelerates and produces new leaves nearly continuously (not in seasonal flushes) — an unusual and attractive character. Fertilize when the terminal bud begins to swell, indicating the start of a growth cycle.
Container culture: excellent for large containers. The species’ slow juvenile growth, architectural form, and drought tolerance make it a superb potted specimen for patios, courtyards, and conservatories. Mature specimens transplant readily.
Buying Advice
Availability: Macrozamia moorei is available from specialist cycad nurseries, particularly in Australia, the USA, and Europe. It is less commonly offered than Macrozamia communis but not rare in the trade. Seeds are sometimes available. Prices for mature trunking specimens are high, reflecting decades of growth.
Identification: always verify the keeled leaf rachis to distinguish from Macrozamia johnsonii. Many plants in the trade are misidentified — especially since juveniles of both species look very similar. Provenance information is helpful: M. moorei originates from central QLD (Springsure, Carnarvon); M. johnsonii from SE QLD and NE NSW.
Propagation
Seed: the standard method. Clean the red sarcotesta (wear gloves — toxic), and sow in well-drained mix at 25–30 °C. Germination is cryptocotylar, typically within 6–12 months. No pretreatment required. Early growth is very slow — patience is essential.
Offsets: basal offsets are occasionally produced but not a reliable propagation method.
Cone production: do not expect cones until the plant is approximately 50 years old. Male and female plants are required for seed production, and hand pollination may be necessary in cultivation outside the native range.
Pests and Diseases
Mealybugs: the most common pest, and more problematic on Macrozamia moorei than on many other cycads. The large number of closely spaced leaves in the crown creates a sheltered, poorly ventilated environment that mealybugs exploit. Treat with horticultural oil, systemic insecticide, or improve air circulation by removing dead fronds.
Scale insects: occasional. Manageable with horticultural oil.
Root rot: in waterlogged soils. The species demands excellent drainage — its semi-arid native habitat makes it particularly intolerant of saturated conditions.
Toxicity: all parts are highly toxic (cycasin, macrozamin). Seeds with their bright scarlet sarcotesta are the most dangerous part. Toxic to dogs, cats, livestock, and humans.
Landscape Use
Macrozamia moorei is arguably the most spectacular landscape cycad in the Australian flora. A mature specimen with a 4–5 m trunk crowned by 100+ dark blue-green, gracefully arching fronds is a sight of extraordinary presence — resembling a date palm but with a far more ancient, primal quality. Use it as a specimen tree in a prominent position: as a focal point in a lawn, courtyard, or entrance garden; as a sentinel on either side of a pathway or gate; or in groups of three to five for a massed cycad planting of unforgettable impact. The blue-green foliage pairs superbly with sandstone, granite, and other natural rock features — reflecting its gorge habitat. It combines well with other large Australian cycads (Macrozamia johnsonii, Lepidozamia peroffskyana), palms (Livistona, Archontophoenix), and drought-tolerant natives. For gardens in Mediterranean, warm-temperate, or semi-arid climates, Macrozamia moorei is the cycad that delivers grandeur, deep-time connection, and low maintenance in a single, long-lived package.
Caution: the leaflets are sharply pungent-tipped, and the lower 40 leaflets on each frond are reduced to rigid spines. Do not plant adjacent to walkways, children’s play areas, or anywhere people pass closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell Macrozamia moorei from Macrozamia johnsonii?
Look at the underside of the leaf rachis. Macrozamia moorei has a keeled (V-shaped) rachis; Macrozamia johnsonii has a flat rachis. The leaf colour also differs: dark blue-green in M. moorei vs. brighter green in M. johnsonii.
How cold-hardy is Macrozamia moorei?
Very. The species tolerates −5 to −7 °C and experiences severe frosts in its native habitat. USDA zone 8b minimum. It is one of the hardiest arborescent cycads in the world — successfully grown outdoors in areas with regular frost but not prolonged snow cover.
How old can Macrozamia moorei get?
Plants 8 m tall are known, and growth to 2 m from seed takes approximately 100 years. Extrapolation suggests maximum ages exceeding 400 years. These are among the longest-lived plants in Australia.
Why does Macrozamia moorei produce so many cones?
Large male plants can bear up to 100 cones simultaneously — the highest number recorded in any Macrozamia species. The cones are borne laterally in the axils of leaves, a character shared with the extinct Mesozoic Bennettitales but unique among living cycads. This prolific coning, combined with the species’ long reproductive life, represents an enormous investment in reproduction.
What is the connection to the Bennettitales?
In 1913, Chamberlain showed that Macrozamia moorei bears lateral cones in leaf axils — identical to the Mesozoic Bennettitales, an extinct group that superficially resembled cycads but were not closely related. This was interpreted as evidence that M. moorei retains ancestral characters linking it to the Jurassic flora. Whether this is true homology or convergence remains debated, but it gives the species a singular place in cycad evolutionary biology.
Authority Websites and Databases
POWO — Plants of the World Online (Kew)
https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:797810-1
The accepted nomenclatural record.
World List of Cycads — cycadlist.org
https://cycadlist.org/scientific_name/
First published in Australas. Chem. Druggist 4: 84 (1881). Described from material collected on the Nogoa River near Springsure.
PACSOA — Palm and Cycad Societies of Australia
http://www.pacsoa.org.au/wiki/Macrozamia_moorei
Detailed field account by Len Butt: Carnarvon Gorge populations, 4+ m trunks with 180 cm fronds, leaf base-defined caudex to 80 cm diameter. Initially classified under Encephalartos. Distribution from Emerald and Springsure to Injune and Carnarvon Gorge, with a disjunct NSW occurrence in the Clarence River district.
LLIFLE Encyclopedia
https://llifle.com/Encyclopedia/PALMS_AND_CYCADS/…
Comprehensive profile: habitat (300–500 m altitude, dry sclerophyll, rocky gorges, annual rainfall ~500 mm, severe frosts common), cone dimensions (female to 90 cm, male to 45 cm, up to 100 males per plant), growth rate (2 m in <100 years, possibly 400+ years for 8 m specimens), cultivation notes.
Conifers.org — Macrozamia moorei
https://conifers.org/za/Macrozamia_moorei.php
Detailed description (Harden 1990, Jones 1993): trunk to 8 m / 80 cm dbh, leaves to 150 in crown, leaflets 150–250, keeled rachis, pungent-tipped. Distribution: NSW (Clarence River) and QLD (Carnarvon Range to Emerald). Notes on relationship to M. johnsonii and coning at ~50 years.
Chamberlain, C. J. (1913) — Bennettitales connection
Botanical Gazette 55(2): 97–114
The landmark paper: “Macrozamia Moorei bears numerous lateral cones in the axils of leaves, in this respect being identical with the mesozoic Bennettitales.” Also documents embryogeny resembling Cycas (not Zamia). Pollen grain morphology described.
Cai, B., et al. (2022) — Phylotranscriptomics of Macrozamia
Annals of Botany 130(5): 783–797 (PMC9670756)
Places M. moorei in section Macrozamia, sub-clade A, alongside M. johnsonii and related taxa. Discusses obligate pollination mutualism with Cycadothrips thrips and Tranes weevils across the genus. Morphological trait mapping onto transcriptome-based phylogeny.
Bibliography
Cai, B., Liddle, P., Lindstrom, A., et al. (2022). Phylotranscriptomics reveal the spatio-temporal distribution and morphological evolution of Macrozamia, an Australian endemic genus of Cycadales. Annals of Botany, 130(5), 783–797.
Chamberlain, C. J. (1913). Macrozamia Moorei, a connecting link between living and fossil cycads. Botanical Gazette, 55(2), 97–114.
Forster, P. I. (2004). Revision of Macrozamia section Macrozamia (Zamiaceae) in Queensland, with the description of two new species. Austrobaileya, 6(4), 859–882.
Hill, K. D. (1998). Cycadophyta. Flora of Australia, 48, 597–661.
Jones, D. L. (1993). Cycads of the World. Reed, Chatswood.
Jones, D. L. (2002). Cycads of the World (2nd ed.). New Holland Publishers, Sydney.
Mueller, F. von (1881). Macrozamia moorei. Australasian Chemist and Druggist, 4, 84.
Norstog, K. J., & Nicholls, T. J. (1997). The Biology of the Cycads. Cornell University Press, Ithaca.
Terry, I., Walter, G. H., Moore, C. J., Roemer, R. B., & Hull, C. (2007). Odor-mediated push-pull pollination in cycads. Science, 318, 70.
Whitelock, L. M. (2002). The Cycads. Timber Press, Portland.