This is a small, tough, woody cycad and like all cycads, the coontie has ancient origins. This Florida plant is the only cycad native to Florida. It's also the preferred food source for larvae of the rare Atala butterfly. It is a low-growing, slow-growing plant, typically one to three feet tall. It has stiff, glossy, featherlike leaves attached to a thick, short, underground stem. It has high drought tolerance and moderate salt tolerance, and is an excellent option for the coastal landscape. It is cold-hardy, also. Coonties can be planted in sun or shade, and can be used as a specimen plant or in foundation and massed plantings throughout the state.