Troubleshooting
Florida Arrowroot problems — and how to fix them
Florida Arrowroot (Zamia floridana) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Atala butterfly larvae defoliation
In Florida landscapes, Atala butterfly (Eumaeus atala) caterpillars — which sequester cycasin — feed exclusively on Zamia floridana. Light grazing is ecologically normal and the plant recovers. Heavy infestation can be managed by hand-picking.
Overwatering and crown rot
The most common cause of death indoors. If the central crown becomes soft or the base turns brown and mushy, the plant is rotting. Remove from pot, cut away rotten tissue, dust with fungicide, and allow to dry for several days before repotting in fresh dry sandy mix.
Scale insects
Cycad aulacaspis scale is a destructive pest. Monitor frond undersides and the trunk base regularly. Treat with horticultural oil, neem oil, or a systemic insecticide; a single untreated population can kill the plant within a season.
Prevent florida arrowroot problems before they start
Most florida arrowroot issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for florida arrowroot in general rather than its problems? Read the full florida arrowroot care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Florida Arrowroot problems — FAQ
Why is my florida arrowroot atala butterfly larvae defoliation?
In Florida landscapes, Atala butterfly (Eumaeus atala) caterpillars — which sequester cycasin — feed exclusively on Zamia floridana. Light grazing is ecologically normal and the plant recovers. Heavy infestation can be managed by hand-picking.
Why is my florida arrowroot overwatering and crown rot?
The most common cause of death indoors. If the central crown becomes soft or the base turns brown and mushy, the plant is rotting. Remove from pot, cut away rotten tissue, dust with fungicide, and allow to dry for several days before repotting in fresh dry sandy mix.
Why is my florida arrowroot scale insects?
Cycad aulacaspis scale is a destructive pest. Monitor frond undersides and the trunk base regularly. Treat with horticultural oil, neem oil, or a systemic insecticide; a single untreated population can kill the plant within a season.