ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

ZZ Plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, and commonly called eternity plant, aroid palm, or Zanzibar gem, is a remarkably resilient and adaptable houseplant. Native to Eastern Africa, this plant thrives on neglect, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals or those new to plant care. Its glossy, dark green foliage adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we understand the appeal of low-maintenance houseplants like the Zamioculcas zamiifolia, also refered to as the emerald palm. We’re here to provide you with the most comprehensive guide to help you select the best variety, learn how to care for a ZZ plant, and find the ideal supplier, ensuring your plant thrives for years to come, whether you’re looking to buy a ZZ plant or just gather information.

1. Understanding the ZZ Plant: Botany, History, and Benefits

The ZZ Plant, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a member of the Araceae family, which also includes other popular houseplants like peace lilies and philodendrons. Its botanical name reflects its origins: “Zamioculcas” refers to its resemblance to Zamia plants (a type of cycad), and “zamiifolia” means “with leaves like Zamia.”

Common name	ZZ Plant, Eternity Plant, Zanzibar Gem, Aroid Palm, Emerald Palm
Botanical name	Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Family	Araceae
Genus	Zamioculcas
Species	zamiifolia
Origin	Eastern Africa (Kenya to northeastern South Africa)
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Rhizomatous, Succulent
Hardiness zone	Typically 9-12 (primarily grown as a houseplant)
Sunlight	Low Light to Bright Indirect Light
Maintenance	Low
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	1-3 ft. (depending on container size and desired fullness)
Flowering period	Infrequent indoors; Late Summer/Early Fall (if flowering occurs)
Height	1-3 ft. (depending on variety)
Flower color	Small, white to brownish spathe with spadix (rarely seen indoors)
Stem color	Green, becoming woody with age
Leaf Color	Typically Dark Green, but can vary with cultivar (‘Raven’ is nearly black)
Leaf Benefit	Air-purifying, Glossy Appearance
Garden style	Suitable for various styles, including Modern, Minimalist, and Tropical
Uses	Houseplant, Container Plant, Office Plant, Air Purifier

• Botany: The ZZ Plant is characterized by its thick, rhizomatous roots, which store water and nutrients, allowing it to withstand periods of drought. Its stems are succulent, and its leaves are pinnate, meaning they are composed of multiple leaflets arranged along a central stem. The leaves are naturally glossy and waxy, which helps to reduce water loss.
• History: Native to Eastern Africa, from Kenya south to northeastern South Africa, the ZZ Plant has adapted to survive in dry grasslands and forests. It was first described by botanists in the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that it gained popularity as a houseplant, thanks to Dutch nurseries who began propagating it on a larger scale.
• Benefits: Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ZZ Plant offers several benefits:
  • Air Purification: Like many houseplants, ZZ Plants can help to improve indoor air quality. A study by NASA in 1989, demonstrated the ability of certain plants to remove common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. Although the ZZ Plant wasn’t specifically tested in the original study, later research has shown its effectiveness in removing toxins like benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. (Wolverton, B. C., et al. Interior Landscape Plants for Indoor Air Pollution Abatement. NASA, 1989.)
  • Low Maintenance: The ZZ Plant’s ability to tolerate low light and infrequent watering makes it exceptionally easy to care for.
  • Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that interacting with indoor plants can reduce stress and improve mood. A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that active interaction with indoor plants can reduce physiological and psychological stress. (Lee, M. S., et al. “Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: a randomized crossover study.” Journal of Physiological Anthropology, vol. 34, no. 21, 2015.)
  • Improved Humidity: Plants release water vapor through transpiration, which can help to increase humidity levels in dry indoor environments.
  • Drought Tolerance: ZZ plants store water in their thick rhizomes, allowing them to withstand weeks without water.

2. ZZ Plant Varieties: Choosing the Right One for You

While the standard ZZ Plant is popular, several cultivars offer variations in size, color, and leaf shape. Here are some of the most common varieties:

Variety	Description	Size	Unique Features
‘Zamiifolia’	The standard variety, with glossy, dark green leaves.	Up to 3 feet	Classic, readily available
‘Raven’	A striking cultivar with nearly black foliage that emerges as bright green.	Up to 3 feet	Dramatic color, highly sought-after
‘Zenzi’	A compact, dwarf variety with tightly packed, curled leaves.	Up to 1 foot	Space-saving, unique leaf texture
‘Variegated’	Features leaves with splashes of white, cream, or yellow variegation.	Up to 2 feet	Less common, requires brighter indirect light
‘Lucky Classic’	Similar to the standard variety but with slightly more rounded leaflets.	Up to 3 feet	Considered to bring good luck

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we showcase a wide array of garden centers that offer these, and other, ZZ Plant varieties. We aim to connect you with the perfect plant to suit your aesthetic preferences and space constraints. Choosing the right variety depends on your personal preference and the conditions of your home. ‘Raven’ is particularly popular for its unique color, while ‘Zenzi’ is a great choice for smaller spaces.

3. Essential ZZ Plant Care: Light, Water, Soil, and Fertilizer

The ZZ Plant’s reputation for being “unkillable” stems from its ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions. However, providing optimal care will ensure your plant thrives and looks its best.

• Light:
  • Ideal: Bright, indirect light. This means placing the plant near a window where it receives filtered sunlight. East-facing windows are often ideal.
  • Tolerable: Low light conditions. The ZZ Plant can survive in low light, but its growth will be slower, and the leaves may become less vibrant. Avoid placing it in complete darkness.
  • Avoid: Direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown.
• Water:
  • Ideal: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. This may be every 2-4 weeks, depending on the environment and the size of the pot. Use your finger to check the soil moisture; if it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
  • Tolerable: Occasional overwatering. The ZZ Plant is more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering, but consistently soggy soil can lead to root rot.
  • Avoid: Frequent watering. Overwatering is the most common cause of ZZ Plant problems.
• Soil:
  • Ideal: Well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for cacti and succulents is a good choice, as it allows excess water to drain quickly. You can also amend a standard potting mix with perlite or sand to improve drainage.
  • Tolerable: Standard potting mix, as long as it’s not too dense or compacted.
  • Avoid: Heavy clay soils, which retain too much moisture.
• Fertilizer:
  • Ideal: Fertilize sparingly, only during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply once every 2-3 months.
  • Tolerable: No fertilizer. The ZZ Plant can survive without fertilizer, but it will grow more slowly.
  • Avoid: Over-fertilizing. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant.
• Temperature and Humidity:
  • Ideal Temperature: 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C).
  • Tolerable Temperature: As low as 45°F (7°C), but avoid prolonged exposure to cold drafts.
  • Humidity: Average room humidity is fine. ZZ Plants don’t require high humidity.

4. Propagation: Creating More ZZ Plants from Cuttings (Heading 2)

ZZ Plants are relatively easy to propagate, allowing you to expand your collection or share plants with friends. There are two primary methods: leaf cuttings and stem cuttings.

• Leaf Cuttings:
  1. Select Healthy Leaves: Choose mature, healthy leaves from the plant.
  2. Cut the Leaves: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves close to the stem.
  3. Allow to Callus: Let the cut ends of the leaves dry and callus over for a few hours or overnight. This helps to prevent rot.
  4. Plant the Leaves: Insert the cut ends of the leaves into a well-draining potting mix, about 1/2 inch deep.
  5. Water Sparingly: Water the soil lightly and keep it slightly moist, but not soggy.
  6. Be Patient: Leaf cuttings can take several months to develop roots and new growth. Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect light.
• Stem Cuttings:
  1. Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a stem with several leaves.
  2. Cut the Stem: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut the stem at the base, just below a node (the point where leaves emerge).
  3. Remove Lower Leaves: Remove the leaves from the bottom few inches of the stem.
  4. Allow to Callus: Let the cut end of the stem dry and callus over for a few hours or overnight.
  5. Plant the Stem: Insert the cut end of the stem into a well-draining potting mix, about 2-3 inches deep.
  6. Water Sparingly: Water the soil lightly and keep it slightly moist, but not soggy.
  7. Provide Support: If the cutting is tall, you may need to provide support with a stake.
  8. Be Patient: Stem cuttings typically root faster than leaf cuttings, but it can still take several weeks or months to see new growth.
• Rhizome Division:
  1. Unpot the Plant: Gently remove the ZZ plant from its pot.
  2. Separate Rhizomes: Use your hands or a clean, sharp knife to divide the rhizomes, making sure each division has at least one stem and some roots.
  3. Pot the Divisions: Plant each division in a separate pot with well-draining potting mix.
  4. Water Thoroughly: Water the newly potted divisions thoroughly.

5. Troubleshooting Common ZZ Plant Problems (Heading 2)

While ZZ Plants are generally low-maintenance, they can occasionally experience problems. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Yellowing Leaves:
  • Most Likely Cause: Overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
  • Other Possible Causes: Nutrient deficiency, low light, or root rot.
• Brown Leaf Tips:
  • Most Likely Cause: Low humidity or inconsistent watering. Try to maintain consistent soil moisture and increase humidity if possible.
  • Other Possible Causes: Fertilizer burn, or exposure to cold drafts.
• Drooping Leaves:
  • Most Likely Cause: Underwatering. Water the plant thoroughly.
  • Other Possible Causes: Overwatering (if accompanied by yellowing leaves), or root rot.
• Leggy Growth:
  • Most Likely Cause: Insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light.
• Root Rot:
  • Cause: Overwatering and poorly draining soil.
  • Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor from the soil.
  • Treatment: Remove the plant from its pot, trim away any affected roots (they will be dark and mushy), and repot in fresh, well-draining potting mix.
• Pests:
  • Common Pests: Mealybugs, scale, and spider mites.
  • Treatment: Inspect the plant regularly for signs of pests. If found, isolate the plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

6. ZZ Plant Toxicity: Keeping Pets and Children Safe (Heading 2)

ZZ Plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be irritating to the skin, mouth, and digestive system if ingested.

• Toxicity Level: Mildly toxic.
• Symptoms of Ingestion: Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
• Precautions:
  • Keep ZZ Plants out of reach of pets and children.
  • Wear gloves when handling the plant, especially if you have sensitive skin.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
  • If ingestion occurs, contact a poison control center or veterinarian immediately.
• Alternatives: If you are concerned, consider alternative non-toxic plants like spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) or Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata).

7. Decorating with ZZ Plants: Style and Placement Ideas

ZZ Plants are versatile and can complement a variety of interior design styles. Their sleek, architectural form makes them a popular choice for modern and minimalist spaces, but they can also add a touch of greenery to more traditional settings.

• Placement Ideas:
  • Floor Plants: Larger ZZ Plants can be used as floor plants to add height and visual interest to a room.
  • Tabletop Plants: Smaller ZZ Plants are perfect for tabletops, shelves, and desks.
  • Grouping: Create a visually appealing display by grouping ZZ Plants of different sizes or varieties together.
  • Corners: ZZ Plants can soften the harsh lines of corners and add a touch of life to often-neglected spaces.
  • Low-Light Areas: Utilize ZZ Plants in areas with limited natural light, such as hallways or bathrooms (as long as there is some light).
• Style Tips:
  • Modern/Minimalist: Use a simple, clean-lined pot in a neutral color like white, black, or gray.
  • Bohemian: Choose a pot with a textured or patterned design, or use a macrame plant hanger.
  • Traditional: Opt for a classic terracotta pot or a ceramic pot with a more ornate design.
  • Combine with Other Plants: Pair ZZ Plants with other low-maintenance houseplants like snake plants or pothos for a diverse and visually appealing display.

8. Where to Buy ZZ Plants: Finding Reputable Suppliers (Heading 2)

Finding a healthy ZZ Plant is crucial for its long-term success. Gardencenterpoint.com is dedicated to connecting you with reputable nurseries and garden centers. Here are some options, and what to look for:

• Local Nurseries and Garden Centers:
  • Advantages: You can inspect the plant in person, ask questions of knowledgeable staff, and often find locally grown plants.
  • What to Look For: Look for plants with healthy, glossy leaves, no signs of pests or diseases, and a well-established root system (avoid plants that are root-bound).
• Online Retailers:
  • Advantages: Convenience, a wider selection of varieties, and often competitive prices.
  • What to Look For: Read reviews from other customers, check the seller’s return policy, and look for guarantees of plant health. Choose retailers that specialize in plants, not just general merchandise. Gardencenterpoint.com can direct you to trusted online sellers.
• Big Box Stores:
  • Advantages: Often have lower prices.
  • What to Look for: Carefully inspect plants, as they may not receive the same level of care as in specialized nurseries.
• Gardencenterpoint.com’s Role: We provide a curated list of reputable suppliers, both local and online, ensuring you have access to high-quality ZZ Plants. We also provide reviews and ratings to help you make informed decisions.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ZZ Plants (Heading 2)

• How often should I water my ZZ Plant? Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks.
• Can ZZ Plants grow in low light? Yes, they can tolerate low light, but they will grow best in bright, indirect light.
• Are ZZ Plants toxic to pets? Yes, they are mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
• How can I propagate my ZZ Plant? You can propagate ZZ Plants through leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or rhizome division.
• Why are the leaves of my ZZ Plant turning yellow? The most common cause is overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• What kind of soil should I use for my ZZ Plant? Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus and succulent mix.
• Can ZZ Plants grow outdoors? In USDA hardiness zones 9-12, ZZ plants can thrive outdoors in partial shade. Otherwise, they are best grown as indoor plants.
• How big do ZZ plants get? Most varieties reach a height of 2-3 feet, but some dwarf varieties stay smaller.
• Do ZZ plants flower? Yes, but they rarely flower indoors. The flowers are small and insignificant compared to the foliage.
• How do I clean my ZZ Plant’s leaves? Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them looking glossy.

10. The Future of ZZ Plants: Trends and Innovations

The popularity of ZZ Plants is likely to continue, driven by their low-maintenance nature and adaptability. Here are some trends and innovations to watch for:

• New Cultivars: Plant breeders are constantly working to develop new ZZ Plant cultivars with unique characteristics, such as different leaf colors, shapes, and sizes. Expect to see more variegated and dwarf varieties in the future.
• Sustainable Propagation: As demand for ZZ Plants grows, there will be an increasing focus on sustainable propagation methods to reduce the environmental impact of plant production.
• Biophilic Design: The use of plants in interior design to connect people with nature (biophilic design) is a growing trend. ZZ Plants are well-suited for this purpose, as they are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments.
• Technological Advancements: Smart plant sensors and self-watering pots may become more common, making it even easier to care for ZZ Plants.
• Increased Research: More research is being conducted on the air-purifying properties of plants, and the ZZ Plant is likely to be included in future studies.