ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The Nearly Indestructible Houseplant

Botanical Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia

ZZ Plant has surged in popularity—and deserves all the attention. The Aroid family gives us more dependable houseplants than any other, and Z. zamiifolia is no exception. A worthwhile collection addition.

Great room accent, practically thrives on neglect. Forgiving if you forget water, tolerates low light, rarely needs fertilizer. Seems to shrug off pests.

Grows from rhizomes with thick upright stems bearing narrow, dark-green glossy leaves. Clean leaves with damp cloth. No leaf-shine products—they damage the plant.

Small insignificant flowers (spadix + spathe) may appear at base in summer—rarely indoors.

Slow-grower indoors, rarely needs repotting. Small pot (max 2 in / 5 cm wider than old) with drainage holes prevents root rot.

Overwatering kills ZZ. Fast-draining mix essential. Add sand/perlite to potting mix or use cactus mix.

Watering Tip: Despite drought tolerance, ZZ is healthiest with regular watering. Water thoroughly, allow top 2 in (5 cm) to dry before watering again.

CAUTION: All parts poisonous. Keep away from children/pets.

ZZ Plant Care Quick Reference

• Origin: East Africa
• Height: Slow, but to 3 ft (90 cm) indoors. Taller in nature.
• Light: Bright to low. No direct sun (scorches leaves).
• Water: Thoroughly, allow top 2 in (5 cm) to dry between. Soggy soil rots rhizomes.
• Humidity: Average indoor
• Temperature: 60–75°F (16–24°C)
• Soil: Fast-draining. 1 part all-purpose mix + 1 part sharp sand/perlite. Cactus mix works.
• Fertilizer: 4 times/year with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength
• Propagation: Rhizome division. Leaf cuttings: pull leaf, stick cut end in moist medium. Don't bury deep (rots). Patient—months to grow.