ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas Zamiifolia     Origin: Eastern and Southern Africa

You've probably noticed the ZZ Plant's beautiful glossy foliage, but did you know these plants grow from rhizomes that store water to help them survive drought-like conditions? Equally attractive and hardy, they're used to harsh environments and can withstand periods of neglect.

Common Issues

Leaf burn: Most often a result of improper watering or very low humidity. This is not reversible damage but can be removed with scissors and a careful hand.
Yellow or pale green new leaves: This is typically a symptom of excessively low light.
Leggy stems: This is also a symptom of excessively low light, as your plant grows awkwardly as it stretches towards a light source.

Light: These plants respond best to bright, indirect light, so take advantage of any eastern or western exposures in your home. They are also tolerant of low light, surviving for long periods of time if their watering schedule is adjusted accordingly.

Water: These plants like their soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water your plant only when the top two inches of soil are dry to prevent root rot.

Humidity: ZZ Plants will maintain their foliage best in high humidity scenarios. Low humidity can cause the leaves to start browning.

Growth: These herbaceous plants will grow slowly to about 2-feet tall. Their leaves are pinnately divided, meaning that their leaflets are arranged side-by-side along a common axis, like barbs on a feather.

Soil: ZZ Plants like well-drained soil, so adding bark or perlite to your potting mix is a good idea. Since these plants are almost constantly growing, a mild slow-release fertilizer should be used once or twice a year. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn leaf tips as nutrients build up in the roots.

Temperature: These are tropical plants and their leaves can be damaged by cold temperatures or drafts. Ideally, you should keep your ZZ Plant between 65-85°F.

Repotting: Repotting should be done infrequently. Gently tip your ZZ Plant on its side to remove it from the pot and gently brush off any old soil. Don’t pull straight up, or you might badly damage your plant’s roots. Make sure the new pot is only slightly larger to avoid instability as your plant adopts its new home.

Extra TLC: If you're hoping for a large, lush plant, your ZZ Plant will grow quicker the more rhizomes you pot together.