Plants 101
How To Care for a ZZ Plant or Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Looking for a highly dependable easy-care houseplant? The ZZ Plant is for you. Find out our tips for keeping it in the best condition.
Learn how to care for the ZZ Plant!
The Zamioculcas zamiifolia – or ZZ Plant — is a tropical perennial native to Eastern Africa that has become popular worldwide in recent years due to its tolerance of a wide range of conditions. The ZZ grows smooth, naturally shiny leaves that range from bright lime in their youth to an emerald green in their maturity. Individual leaflets are typically one to three inches long. They spring from thick, slightly bulbous stalks, which grow from large, water-storing rhizomes hidden underneath the soil. The ZZ is a highly dependable houseplant because it can tolerate low light and has low water requirements.
Sunlight
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Can tolerate lower indirect light. Not suited for intense, direct sun.
Water
Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
Humidity
Don’t sweat it. Average home humidity is fine; can tolerate dry air.
Temperature
Most houseplants prefer temps in the 65°F-85°F range (18°C-30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).
Soil
Use a well-draining potting mix. Mix in ingredients such as perlite or lava rocks to increase soil aeration as need.
Common Problems
The ZZ Plant is an easy-going plant and is generally pest-free. Treat pests as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.
SYMPTOM: Wilting plant, dry potting mix
CAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered
SYMPTOM: Wrinkled leaves
CAUSE: Thirsty plant, underwatered
SYMPTOM: Yellowing and becoming mushy, wet potting mix
CAUSE: Root rot, overwatered
Precautions
ZZ Plants can be irritating to cats, dogs, and humans if foliage consumed. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.
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Words By The Sill
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