Origin and Habitat: Dioon merolae is known from at fewer than ten locations in Chiapas (Distrito de Tonalá)and Oaxaca, in the southern part of Mexico.
Altitude range: 1,970-3,925 ft (600-1,200 m) above sea level.
Habitat and Ecology: Plants occur in a forest dominated by Pinus and Quercus and also in tropical semi deciduous forest with soils developed on sedimentary rocks and karst limestone. Specimens are found growing on steep sandstone cliffs, along thickly vegetated watercourses. It is considered threatened in the wild. Populations are affected by over collection. In some cases the top portion of plants are cut off and sold as a table decoration.

Cultivation and Propagation: Dioon merolae is a very adaptable plant well suited to warm temperate and subtropical climates. It is long lived and slow to moderately fast growing and a plant with 12 in (30 cm) of stem can be quite old (10-20 or more years). However, in cultivation, a plant with inches of trunk is fairly old and considered a specimen. This is a frost-tolerant, heat-tolerant and sun-tolerant species.
Soils: It prefer well drained, gritty soil with plenty of water, especially in dry weather.
Fertilization: Naturally undemanding for nutrients, it responds very well to regular applications of fertilizer. Growth can be greatly improved through the application of fertilizers. Most growers find that a fertilizer having an even NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) balance, and supplemental trace elements, provides a good start for cycads.
Exposure: It thrives and grows best in partial shade.
Waterings: In cultivation prefers moist soil with good drainage for optimal growth. But it is eventually very drought resistant.
Hardiness: Mature and established plants have been reported to tolerate light frosts for some days.
Propagation: This species may be propagated by seeds or by division and replanting of the attractive offsets or "pups" formed at the base of the oldest plant. They are among the easiest plants to germinate. The seeds are about a large grape size and hard as a rock.
Uses: The leaves (fronds) were used for decoration, especially in religious ceremonies.
Warning: The leaflets of dioon taper to a sharp point. It is well advised to plant virgin's palm away from footpaths and walkways. Wear heavy gloves when handling or working close to the plant to avoid getting jabbed by the sharp points of the leaflets.