ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Also called: Zanzibar Gem
ZZ Plant. Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly called ZZ plant or Zanzibar gem, is a rhizomatous evergreen perennial native to dry grasslands and rocky outcrops of eastern Africa from Kenya to South Africa. Glossy dark green pinnate leaves emerge from underground potato-like rhizomes, which store water and let the plant survive months of drought — a feature that makes it the nearly indestructible default office plant.
Growing & care
- Light: low to bright indirect. Tolerates conditions that would kill most houseplants, including fluorescent-only office lighting.
- Water: sparingly. Water deeply when the soil is bone-dry — typically every 2–4 weeks, less in winter. Drought is forgiven; standing water is fatal.
- Soil: any well-drained potting mix; cactus mix is ideal.
- Pot: add 2 inches of growing room max; ZZ plants flower and stay sturdy slightly pot-bound.
- Temperature: 60–85°F. Avoid cold drafts.
- Fertilizer: light, monthly during active growth; skip in winter. Over-fertilizing burns the rhizome.
Propagation
Division is the fastest method: when repotting, slice the rhizome into sections with at least one stem each. Leaf cuttings work too but require patience — bury individual leaves halfway into moist soil and wait 6–9 months for a new rhizome bud to form. Stem cuttings of whole leaves can be rooted in water but take many months.
Common problems
Yellow stems and mushy rhizomes mean overwatering — when in doubt, wait another week before watering. Brown leaf tips usually indicate fluoride or chloride in tap water; switch to filtered. Pale or yellow new growth in winter is normal seasonal slowdown. ZZ plants contain insoluble calcium oxalates throughout the plant and are toxic to dogs and cats — keep out of pet reach, wear gloves when repotting to avoid skin irritation, and wash hands after handling.
ZZ Plant — seeds, tools & books
Native range
Native range not recorded for this plant. Often a non-native cultivar or naturalized garden plant.
