Etymology:
from the montain habitat.
Distinguishing features: Cycas montana is distinguished from other species in the region by the absence of a spongy endotesta, the green (non-glaucous) leaves, the persistent brown tomentum on the petiole, and the stiff, narrow leaflets. Distribution and habitat: endemic on Flores, restricted to inland montane forests at higher altitudes. Conservation status: Not thought to be at risk, although not reserved. IUCN (2001) Red List status NT.
Description:
Stems arborescent, to 1.5 m. tall. Leaves deep green, glossy, 223–248 cm long, 144–151 leaflets, with persistent brown tomentum; petiole 63–72 cm long (25–30% of total leaf), spinescent for c. 20% of length; basal leaflets not gradually reducing to spines, to 230 mm long. Median leaflets simple, strongly discolorous, 230–248 mm long, 8–10 mm wide, decurrent for 7 mm, narrowed to 3–4 mm at base (30–40% of maximum width), 10–15 mm apart on rachis; section slightly keeled; margins distinctly recurved; apex acute or aristate, spinescent; midrib flat above, raised below, narrow. Cataphylls narrowly triangular, soft. Pollen cones not seen. Megasporophylls 20–35 cm long, tomentum orange, persistent; ovules 2–6, glabrous; lamina lanceolate, 45–100 mm long, 20–40 mm wide, shallowly pectinate, with 14–40 pungent lateral spines 9–13 mm long, 1.5 mm wide; apical spine distinct from lateral spines, 25–40 mm long, 5–8 mm wide at base. Seeds ovoid, 50–55 mm long, 30–45 mm wide; sarcotesta amber-brown, not pruinose; fibrous layer present; sclerotesta smooth, spongy endotesta absent.
|
