Zamioculcas zamiifolia

ZZ plant

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Taxonomy

Common Names

ZZ plantZanzibar gemEmerald palmZuzu plant

Context

nativeRegion

Eastern Africa (primarily Zanzibar, Kenya, Tanzania).

usdaZones

9–11 (grown indoors in temperate zones).

companionPlants

Sansevieria (Snake Plant), Aspidistra, Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

culturalUses

Popular as an ornamental houseplant; valued for resilience and air purification.

Care

LightThrives in low to bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.

WateringAllow soil to dry out between waterings. Water sparingly; tolerate drought well.

SoilWell-draining potting mix; a cactus or succulent mix is ideal.

FertilizerFeed with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, once a month during active growth (spring-summer).

HumidityAverage indoor humidity is sufficient; very tolerant of dry air.

Temperature18–24°C (65–75°F) preferred; avoid temperatures below 15°C (59°F).

HabitUpright, perennial herb with fleshy, pinnate leaves and tuberous rhizomes.

Mature SizeUp to 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) tall and wide indoors.

Growth RateSlow-growing, especially in low light or cool conditions.

BloomingRarely blooms indoors; produces small, inconspicuous spadix flowers at base.

DormancyMay experience mild dormancy in cooler, low-light seasons, slowing growth.

MethodsDivision of rhizomes, Leaf cuttings

DifficultyEasy to moderate; leaf cuttings can take several months to root.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for optimal rooting and recovery.

PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base with clean shears.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when roots/rhizomes outgrow container.

Pests & DiseasesHighly resistant but can rarely suffer from root rot (overwatering) or occasional pests like aphids or mealybugs.

ToxicityToxic to people and pets if ingested; may cause irritation.

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