These ancient plants were abundant when dinosaurs were here. Macrozamia dyeri is a palm-like plant (but not a palm) with a short stout trunk above ground, reaching a diameter of 1 metre or more, dull blueish-green leaves up to 2m long with broad leaflets, each leaflet with a distinct "keel". Cones are long, narrow, male and female cones are borne on separate plants. Cone production is probably stimulated by fire.
Found only in South-western Australia, from Monglinup River east to Israelite Bay. Locally abundant in coastal shrublands and heaths on deep beach sand deposits.
Identification
The main flower colour is other. Blueish green leaves and large size.
Uses
The seed is surrounded by red flesh and a thin shell. A nut-like interior is an excellent food source but the seeds are very poisonous as early explorers and settlers quickly discovered. Aborigines have discovered ways to neutralise the poisonous substances by roasting, leaching and aging, so that Macrozamias became an important food source for them.
References
http://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/14366http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/cycadpg?taxname=Macrozamia+dyeriCreated: 19 May 2014 -
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