- Dioon spinulosum
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Dioon spinulosum 
Conservation status Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Division: Cycadophyta Class: Cycadopsida Order: Cycadales Family: Zamiaceae Genus: Dioon Species: D. spinulosum Binomial name Dioon spinulosum
Dyer ex EichlerDioon spinulosum, giant dioon, or gum palm, is a cycad endemic to limestone cliffs and rocky hillsides in the tropical rainforests of Veracruz and Oaxaca, Mexico.[1][2] It is one of the tallest cycads in the world, growing to 12m in height. The tree is found at low elevations to 300 m above sea level.[1]
Dioon spinulosum prefers well-drained soil with regular water. It will grow in soils containing few nutrients, in soils rich in limestone, and on slopes. It is hardy to USDA Zones 9B – 11.
Dioon spinulosum has pinnate leaves that grow to about 5-7 ft (1.5-2.1 m) in length and radiate out from the trunk. The 120-240 leaflets on each leaf are small and flat, have small thorns and taper to a sharp point.
References and external links
- ^ a b Whitelock, Loran M. (2002). The Cycads. Portland, Oregon: Timber Press. pp. 532. ISBN 978-0881925227.
- ^ Walters, Terrence; Osborne, Roy, eds (2004). Cycad Classification: Concepts and Recommendations. Portland, Oregon: CAB International. pp. 288. ISBN 978-0851997414.
- Encyclopædia Britannica <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/232982/giant-dioon>.
- Michigan State University Horticulture <http://msuplants.com/pd.asp?pid=3537>.
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