Cycads are ancient plants that resemble palms and are often found in tropical and subtropical regions. They have thick, woody trunks and large, feathery leaves that grow in a rosette shape at the top. Cycads are unique because they are gymnosperms, meaning they produce seeds that are not enclosed in fruit, unlike flowering plants. These fascinating plants have been around for millions of years, even before the dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Today, there are about 300 species of cycads, and they play an important role in their ecosystems by providing food for various animals, including squirrels and insects.