The lush and leafy Zamioculcas zamiifolia (or ZZ plant for short) may be difficult to pronounce but couldn’t be easier to grow. Also called “Zanzibar gem” because of its African origin, ZZ plant looks exotic but is tough as nails, thriving just about anywhere with only a modicum of care.
Like snake plant, it has become a favorite among houseplant growers who love indoor greenery that doesn’t require pampering or a perfect growing environment. ZZ plant is also prized for its stunning foliage, which is so green and glossy it almost looks polished.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Zamioculcas is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, containing the single species Zamioculcas zamiifolia. It is a tropical herbaceous perennial plant, native to eastern Africa including Kenya, KwaZulu-Natal, Malawi, Mozambique,Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Common names include Zanzibar gem, ZZ plant, Zuzu plant, aroid palm, eternity plant and emerald palm. It is grown as a houseplant mainly for its attractive glossy foliage and easy care. Zamioculcas zamiifolia is winter hardy to USDA Zones 9–10.
Dutch nurseries started wide-scale, commercial propagation of the plant around 1996. It was first described as Caladium zamiifolium by Loddiges in 1829, but moved to the genus Zamioculcas by Heinrich Wilhelm Schott and given its established name, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, by Adolf Engler.
- Growth pattern
It is an herbaceous perennial growing to 45–60 centimeters (18–24 in) tall, from a stout, underground, succulent rhizome. It is normally evergreen but becomes deciduous during drought, surviving drought due to the large potato-like rhizome that stores water until rainfall resumes.
The most visible “branches” are actually smooth, shiny, dark green, pinnately compound leaves. These are 40–60 cm (16–24 in) long, with swollen, succulent petioles and 6–8 pairs of leaflets, each 7–15 cm (3–6 in) long. Zamioculcas zamiifolia grows slowly, reaching heights and widths ranging from 2 to 4 feet (0.61 to 1.22 m).
- Inflorescence
The flowers are produced in a small, bright yellow to brown or bronze spadix 5–7 cm (2–3 in) long and wrapped in a yellow-green spathe; the whole inflorescence is partly hidden among the branch bases. Flowering is from midsummer to early autumn.
- Leaves
Zamioculcas zamiifolia contains unusually high water contents of leaves (91%) and petioles (95%) and has an individual leaf longevity of at least six months, which may be the reason it can survive extremely well under interior low light levels for four months without water.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Due to its strong green leaves, it is especially suitable for open, bright rooms. When grown indoors, the plant prefers bright indirect light but will tolerate low light conditions. However, lower light is not optimal for an extended period of time. Insufficient amounts of sunlight can result in leaves lengthening and/or falling off, yellowing (chlorosis), and generally uneven or disproportionate growth as the plant stretches towards a light source. When grown outdoors, Zamioculcas zamiifolia prefers part shade to full shade.
Temperature
It may survive outdoors as long as the temperature does not fall below around 15 °C (60 °F); though best growth is between 18 and 26 °C (64 and 79 °F), while high temperatures give an increase in leaf production. In temperate regions, it is grown as a houseplant. Overwatering may destroy this plant through tuber rot. Bright, indirect light is best; some sun will be tolerated.
Humidity
It is not important to account for humidity levels when caring for a ZZ, which can handle average home humidity and even somewhat dry air. If you would like to recreate the humidity levels it would experience in its native climate, though, aim for 40-50% humidity. Humidity levels can be increased by grouping plants together or adding a humidifier or pebble tray.
Watering
Zamioculcas zamiifolia roots are rhizomatous and have the ability to store moisture, thus aiding the plants in their drought resistance. The plants like regular waterings, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Soil
When it comes to Zamioculcas zamiifolia soil, the most important thing to remember is drainage. It’s better to use chunky materials like orchid bark, and charcoal mixed with perlite and ordinary potting soil. The soil mix must have more perlite than bark to achieve the best structure.
The correct ph level for ZZ plant is from 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic to normal). We want our plants to enjoy all available nutrients in the soil. Hence, it’s helpful to hit the right pH when preparing the soil for ZZ plant.
Also, please ensure that the potting mix is sterile.
Fertilizing
ZZ plants generally do not require regular fertilizing to thrive. However, if you’re hoping to increase your plant’s size or vigor, fertilize your zz plant with indoor plant fertilizer diluted to half-strength one to two times during its active growing season.
Leaf care
To keep the foliage nice and shiny, clean with a damp cloth as needed to remove dust. Misting the leaves occasionally will also reduce dust buildup. Keeping your plant dust-free is good for its health too, because the leaves will be able to take in more sunlight.
Pruning
Zamioculcas zamiifolia pruning isn’t a much-required activity. One reason is that they grow slowly, hence, it would take longer before the plant becomes dense. Second, its shape is naturally in order that you wouldn’t need to do much manipulation. But once you see aged or dead leaves and stems, make sure to trim them off.
In cutting ZZ plant during pruning, always use clean, sharp, and sterile shears. Make sure to create clean, slanting cuts on the stems you intend to prune. This will prevent infection of the wounds created. It’s best to cut a stem at the soil level.
Propagation
ZZ plants propagate in two main ways: through division and stem cuttings. Propagation by division is the simplest way to create more plants—separate the rhizomes the next time you repot your plant and place them in separate containers.
Propagating with stem cuttings takes longer than propagating by division, and you may need to wait six to nine months before roots begin to grow.
- Cut an entire stalk, including leaflets using a sterilized and sharp cutting tool.
- Remove the bottom leaves from the stem, and place the stalk in a jar of water.
- Place in indirect light. Roots should form in a few months. Change water weekly to prevent bacterial growth.
- When root growth is substantial, place the plant into a container filled with potting mix.
Potting and Repotting
ZZ plants should be repotted only once they have outgrown their potting container. Repotting is needed when you see the rhizomes pressing up under the soil against the edge of the container or warping the shape of the container. The plant may also show signs of stress if it has become root-bound.
As with most houseplants, it is usually a good idea to wait until the spring or summer to repot the plants because they will be better able to tolerate being disturbed during the active growing period. Choose a potting container one size larger with ample drainage holes for your Zanzibar gem.
Pests and Diseases
It’s rare for you to encounter serious problems with ZZ plant. But even if this plant is tough, we don’t take lightly the signs that you’ll observe. They are mostly concentrated on the leaves. The unusual change of color from yellowing to browning or scorching of leaf tips tells us a lot about existing Zamioculcas zamiifolia problems.
- Common Pests
Most likely, the Zamioculcas zamiifolia pests that you’ll encounter are pretty common, especially for ornamental plants. That could work to your advantage as you already have an idea of how to get rid of or manage them if ever they infest your ZZ plant.
Occasionally, scale insects, mealy bugs, whiteflies, and aphids can make an unwelcome visit. They can be subtle so always inspect your plant from time to time. Spray them off with soapy water or a combination of diluted neem oil and soap. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol to wipe them off. Be persistent in doing this to prevent them from spreading.
- Common Diseases
Zamioculcas zamiifolia diseases can only happen when the environmental conditions get stressful. This could happen naturally due to an unfavorable climate or as a result of negligence. One example is the root rot. Since the plant requires less water than normal, excess watering is detrimental.
Not only will the roots of your ZZ plant suffer from severe damage, but, it can also lead to death. Waterlogged soil can also invite the growth of pathogens that may further increase the chance of disease occurrence. To save your ZZ plant, it’s best to repot it at the early stage of root rot.
- Growing Problems
While your ZZ plant is naturally a slow grower, some factors may cause growing problems that will derail your plant’s ability to reach its full potential. Some major reasons could be due to improper light conditions, non-optimal temperature, lack of nutrients, or watering problems.
Stress, whether caused by living or non-living factors, could result in a sick plant. This is the reason why we always say that you try to achieve the ideal growing conditions as much as possible. Thankfully, the ZZ plant is much more forgiving than other delicate ornamentals. Hence, with your help, you can expect that it’ll surpass the challenges around.
III. Types of ZZ Plant
In addition to the classic ZZ plant, there are several great cultivars worth seeking out. If you can’t find them at a local garden center, many online nurseries will carry them.
- ‘Raven’™
One of the newest ZZ varieties and one of the most dramatic, with leaves that emerge a bright lime-green color and gradually turn a deep purple, almost black shade as they mature.
- ‘Variegated’
Has green foliage enhanced by splashes of creamy white. Variegation is less pronounced if the plant is grown under low-light conditions.
- ‘Zamicro’
A dwarf version that grows slightly smaller (under 2 feet in height) with a more slender leaf shape.
- ‘Zenzi’
Another dwarf variety (no taller than 15 inches) with smaller, slightly curled leaves.
IV. Toxicity of Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Along with its relatives in the Araceae family, the ZZ plant contains compounds that could be toxic to both pets and humans. Now, if you want to do away with toxicity issues, you can give this plant a pass. But if you’re willing to compromise, there are ways to avoid the hazard.
- For Humans
For humans, simply touching the plant won’t make serious trouble unless you make contact with its sap. For people with sensitive skin, it could trigger problems like dermatitis. So, better wear gloves when you have to handle the plant during pruning, re-potting, or propagation.
Ingesting the plant is certainly not a good idea. It could lead to problems like irritation of the lips, mouth, and throat. This is because it contains high amounts of calcium oxalates. So, if you have children around, educate them about this plant’s toxicity. Keep it out of their reach, if possible. That would save you from huge trouble.
- For Pets
You should also protect your pets from the ZZ plant as much as you protect your kids. Our fur babies can be extra naughty. If they ever chew any part of the ZZ plant, they can get into serious trouble. Aside from irritation on their mouth and throat, they could also experience vomiting and diarrhea. Contact with the plant sap can also lead to inflammation.
In such cases, it’s always best to consult your trusted veterinary doctor to find an immediate remedy. Never self-medicate your pets, especially when handling toxicity issues. As a way of prevention, just place the plant somewhere your pets can’t reach.
V. Uses and Benefits
The ZZ plant is a great addition to your plant indoors. Since it’s a lucky plant, it’s a good ornament if you’re seeking to attract wealth and prosperity.
Its growing requirements are also quite suited for indoor settings, especially in low light conditions. This is a forgiving plant that goes well, particularly with busy plant owners.
You can also use this plant as a gift to your family and friends on special occasions. It cascades positive energy such as growth, encouragement, and dedication. Some folks opt to add ZZ plants in their outdoor landscapes. When doing so, it’s best to have them potted.
Though little information is available, Z. zamiifolia is apparently used medicinally in the Mulanje District of Malawi and in the East Usambara mountains of Tanzania where juice from the leaves is used to treat earache.
In Tanzania, a poultice of bruised plant material from Z. zamiifolia is used as a treatment for the inflammatory condition known as “mshipa”.
Roots from Z. zamiifolia are used as a local application to treat ulceration by the Sukuma people in north-western Tanzania.
