As of 2020, according to a preliminary field investigations the sole remaining known subpopulation is alarmingly small, comprising fewer than 100 adult specimens.

There is a potential for the existence of additional subpopulations, but extensive field surveys have been unsuccessful in locating them, necessitating further research to comprehensively understand the species' population distribution and abundance.

[1] The Type for Zamia restrepoi was first collected in 1918 by Francis W. Pennell in northern Colombia.

[5][6] The stem of Zamia restrepoi is subterranean, ellipsoid in shape, and up to 10 centimetres (3.9 in) in diameter.

These patches are at risk from deforestation caused by agricultural and urban expansion, especially for cattle ranching and crops, making the species' survival uncertain.