This study compared the effect of five levels of light intensity on the growth and development of four species of Zamia. The study was conducted in the Cycad Garden of the University of Panama, located on the campus Octavio Méndez Pereira, Panama Province, Panama. Analyses included information recorded between March and August 2012. One hundred young individuals were chosen (25 of each one): Z. elegantissima,  Z. acuminata, Z. pseudomonticola and Z. obliqua and placed in five locations with different light conditions, at each site were placed five individuals of each specie and observable changes were recorded throughout the investigation. The data obtained were analized with basic descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation test and multivariate statistics (Principal Component Analysis).  Results are discussed from morphological, physiological and ecological viewpoints. Statistical analyzes indicate that the response of zamia species to different light levels were very variable. Furthermore, no limitations in growth were evident on temporary ranges between 0 and five months, with the exception of Zamia obliqua that showed signs of chlorosis in the second month of treatment in open space (200 ft / candle). Results showed that studied species are able to survive in the forest under different light conditions including disturbances for short periods (five months), Studied species can withstand high light intensities without undergoing structural changes.