Zamioculcas zamiifolia, aka ZZ plant, is a popular houseplant with gorgeous, lush foliage. It's very easy to care for and thrives in low lighting situations.
When you love plants, you want to have them in your home as well as outside. Sadly, houseplants can be much more difficult to grow, especially in low lighting. I've written about a few plants that I grow successfully indoors, and today I'm sharing the ZZ plant, a beautiful, low-maintenance houseplant.
More Houseplants to Try
The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a native of eastern Africa and is a member of the aroid family, just like the Philodendron. The area where it is native has long periods of drought, often followed by long periods of rain. Since it has adapted to such odd conditions, it makes a great houseplant for those who do not have a lot of light. The ZZ plant is also commonly known as the eternity plant for its long lifespan.
ZZ Plant Care:
- Sun: Indirect and low lighting
- Water: Minimal, especially in low-light. Never let it sit in water
- Height: Up to 3 feet, but slow growing
This beauty also doesn't need to be watered very often. That's because the roots are actually rhizomes that hold water. In fact, you will notice that the potting mix is very coarse, allowing for a fast drain when watered.
Here it is sitting on my desk with a couple of other plants next to a south eastern window, which gets some indirect light.
The ZZ plant prefers indirect sunlight. Many indoor tropical plants seem to prefer this type of light. Not direct sunlight that can burn the leaves, but bright enough. However, this plant is known to survive in the shade without any natural light. It also has no particular humidity needs and very little to no pest problems.
I like the lush, glossy leaves and the fullness of this plant. So far, it is looking great and has grown a bit, although it is thought to be a relatively slow grower, especially in lower lighting areas. I have noticed that I do need to watch and make sure when I water that I check back after a few minutes, and get rid of any extra water lying in the saucer.
Note: All parts of the plant are said to be poisonous. Keep it away from small children and pets.
While I was doing some research, I found this interesting article by Mr. Brown Thumb about getting the feel of the weight of your pots, to know when to water. I like this idea. The finger method is a good one, but sometimes I'm just not sure, and let me tell you, I have killed a plant or two in the past by over-watering.
I also really liked this detailed and humorous information about Zamioculcas zamiifolia in this article from Plants are the Strangest People.
If you like plants, then you should try adding a ZZ plant to your collection. It's a great way to add a little life to your home decor.
Annette Thompson
do you know if these are safe to be around cats? I have 4 and they are all "chewers".
Patti Estep
Annette, they are poisonous and should be kept out of reach.
Jo Murphey
A friend of mine gave me a ZZ house plant when my husband passed away in January. It has been growing awesome up until last month, the stacks of leaves started turning yellow. I thought it was root bound so separated two plants fro. One so that the roots wouldn’t be cramped. I have watered both of them once a week moderately, but now more stalks are turning yellow, I’m wondering if I need to add something The the soil to prevent this and encourage the leaves to grow lush green again! Do you know what I can do?
Patti Estep
Hi Jo,
I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's passing. Regarding your ZZ plant, though I cannot be sure, I would suggest not watering it for a few weeks and see if it starts looking better. I hardly ever water mine. Maybe once a month and it has stayed nice a green with some new growth. It's really hard to do nothing, I know, but sometimes that's the best thing to do. Since you re-potted it you it may need some time to readjust. Also, you may want to ask in some of the great community forums online such as Dave's garden. Good luck. I think it can still bounce back.
Peggy
Do they like a big pot or more compact root area. I've had mine about 3 years & it just started growing like crazy. Trying to decide if I should repot.
Patti Estep
Hi Peggy,
How exciting. I've only had mine plant for a little over a year but found this article that may be helpful. It's about dividing but has good information about the type of soil to pot the divisions which in my opinion is key.
http://www.jackwallington.com/dividing-a-zamioculcas-zamiifolia-zz-plant/
Good luck and thanks for stopping by,
Patti
Pamela @FlowerPatchFarmhouse
I have fallen back in love with terra cotta pots because you can see when the soil is dried out by the color of the pot. Plus it breathes so you are less likely to drown a plant than in the plastic pots. Though I have grown house plants in abundance for 40 years I am just learning this. 🙂 I have yet to find this plant but it looks like a good one, love the glossy leaves, it reminds me of my lemon trees.
Patti
Hi Pamela,
You make a great point about terra cotta and I do love their look. That's for the reminder!
Heather @ New House New Home
Its really cute! I love the fresh green and shape of the leaves. I'll have to keep my eye out for one!
Patti
Thanks Heather! I often go for the wispy fern or flower but there's something about the fleshy lush leaves that I really like about this one. I hope you find one soon.
Renee Fuller
I haven't seen one of these and now I will have pay attention when I check out plants. Great post!
Patti Estep
Hope you find one soon!
Susan M.
This plant is beautiful! The green would be so pretty inside, especially in the winter!
Patti Estep
Thanks Susan,
I'm really enjoying it.