Easy
ZZ Plant
Scientific Name
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Family
Araceae
Native Region
Eastern Africa
Growth Rate
Slow to moderate
Origin + Story
Zamioculcas zamiifolia is native to the dry grasslands and forests of eastern Africa. It is the only species in its genus. It evolved in conditions of seasonal drought, which explains its remarkable tolerance for neglect. It stores water in thick, potato-like rhizomes and in fleshy leaf stalks.
Each stem is actually a single compound leaf with many small, glossy leaflets. New growth emerges as a tightly furled spike that gradually unfurls, coming in bright lime green and darkening to deep, glossy green.
The plant was relatively unknown until the late 1990s when Dutch nurseries began commercial propagation. It quickly became a staple of people who wanted something green that would not punish them for forgetting about it.
Care guide
Light: Low to bright indirect. Tolerates very low light.
Water: When soil is fully dry. Every 2-4 weeks.
Humidity: Tolerates dry air. No requirements.
Temperature: 60-85F.
Soil: Well-draining. Standard potting soil with extra perlite.
Toxicity: Toxic to cats and dogs.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate. Grows in bursts.
Detailed care
Watering
Allow soil to dry out completely. The rhizomes store enough water to sustain extended dry periods. Chronically wet soil will rot the rhizomes.
Propagation
Division (separating rhizomes), stem cuttings, or individual leaf cuttings. Leaf cuttings take three to nine months.
Common Issues
Yellowing stems: Almost always overwatering
Stems flopping: Root or rhizome rot
No new growth: Normal, especially in winter
Slow growth: This is the plant's nature
Grows well with
Plants that share a trait: same family, similar care, or complementary aesthetics.
