Zamioculcas Zamiifolia (ZZ Plant): Care, Propagation & Growth Habits

The ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant, “Zee-Zee”) is a stylish, modern houseplant introduced by Dutch nurseries in the late 1990s. Its glossy, herringbone-arranged leaves and potato-like rhizomes make it striking and drought-tolerant. Only the all-green cultivar exists; sometimes called “Eternity Plant.” It’s pricey and sometimes hard to find.

One quirk: it can sit unchanged for months – no growth, no decline – which frustrates gardeners who want feedback. But it’s pest-resistant, easy to propagate, and thrives on neglect.

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ZZ Plant Care Instructions

Light

Broad tolerance; no harsh direct sun (south window). Early/late sun okay. North, east, or west windows ideal. Avoid deep shade for growth.

Watering

Overwatering is the #1 killer. Rhizomes store water. Water heavily once a week in warm, bright conditions; less in low light/winter. Soil must dry between waterings. Yellow leaves = overwatering.

Humidity

Not important.

Feeding

Only when actively growing. Weak feed monthly max. None in winter or during “dormant” periods.

Temperature

13–26°C/55–79°F. Warmer = more growth.

Repotting

Spring/summer if needed.

Propagation

Leaf cuttings: pull leaf, let raw edge dry (hours to day), plant cut-end down in free-draining mix. Most leaf above soil. Keep warm, water occasionally. Wait up to a year for new shoot. Three outcomes: new plant emerges; leaf dies but tubers form (replant); leaf dies with nothing (try again).

It's really easy to propagate, but you could be waiting up to a year before you have a new plant

Speed of Growth

Slow to moderate. Warmer = faster. New stems emerge like cocoons, then unfurl glossy leaves.

Height / Spread

Stems to 60 cm (24 in). Spread limited by pot width; wide pots = bushy over years.

Flowers

Basic, uninteresting.

Anything Else?

Dust leaves with tepid shower. No leaf shine (harmful; leaves naturally glossy). All parts toxic.

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