ZZ plant (Zanzibar Gem)
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Evergreen, rhizomatous perennial with glossy pinnate leaves; very tolerant of low light and drought, a popular easy indoor houseplant.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and gastrointestinal upset in pets and humans.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place ZZ plant in bright, indirect light near east- or north-facing windows. It tolerates low light but avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaves. Rotate the pot monthly so all sides receive light and maintain even growth.
Water
Water sparingly: allow the top 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of mix to dry before watering. When you water, soak thoroughly and let excess drain. Reduce frequency in winter and never keep the plant sitting in water to avoid root rot.
Humidity
ZZ tolerates low to average indoor humidity and rarely needs special measures. If air is extremely dry, occasional misting, a pebble tray, or grouping plants can help but are not required.
Temperature
Prefers 15–29°C (59–85°F). Avoid temperatures below 15°C (59°F), protect from cold drafts and frost, and keep away from heating vents that cause rapid temperature swings.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellow, mushy leaves or stem
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root rot
Solution: Stop watering, inspect roots, trim rotten roots, repot in fresh well-draining mix and a pot with drainage; allow soil to dry between waterings.
Brown leaf tips or crispy edges
Cause: Underwatering, low humidity, or salt buildup
Solution: Water more evenly so topsoil dries between waterings, flush soil occasionally to remove salts, and avoid prolonged dry air or heat sources.
Leggy, sparse growth with long petioles
Cause: Insufficient light
Solution: Move plant to brighter, indirect light; prune long stems to encourage new basal growth and rotate pot for even light exposure.
Sticky residue, cottony spots or small bumps on stems
Cause: Pests such as mealybugs, scale or spider mites
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves with isopropyl alcohol, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, and repeat treatments until pests are gone.
✂️How to Propagate ZZ plant (Zanzibar Gem)
Propagation by division: remove plant from pot, separate rhizome clumps with roots intact, replant each division in well-draining mix. Stem or leaf cuttings: cut a healthy leaf or stem, let callus 1–2 days, root in well-draining mix or water; rooting can take weeks to months. Keep warm and bright indirect light and be patient.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Native to eastern Africa, including Zanzibar, Tanzania and coastal regions of East Africa.
Natural Habitat: Occurs in the understory of seasonally dry tropical forests and rocky outcrops in eastern Africa; adapted to bright shade, intermittent drought and well-drained soils with periodic rainfall.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering frequency and stop regular fertilizing. Keep plant in bright, indirect light and ensure temperatures remain above 15°C (59°F). Avoid cold drafts and windowsills with frost exposure.
Spring
Restart a light feeding schedule, increase watering slightly as growth resumes, and consider repotting every 2–3 years. Move to a brighter spot if needed for new growth.
Summer
Provide bright, indirect light and water more frequently but still allow topsoil to dry. Rotate pot for even growth and monitor for pests that increase in warm months.
Fall
Slow watering as growth slows, taper off fertilization, and ensure good light to prepare plant for dormant period. Check for compacting soil and refresh top layer if needed.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my ZZ plant?
Water roughly every 2–4 weeks depending on light and season; allow top 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of soil to dry between waterings.
Can a ZZ plant survive in low light?
Yes, ZZ plants tolerate low light well but prefer bright, indirect light for fuller, faster growth.
How do I repot a ZZ plant?
Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger pot with well-draining mix, dividing rhizomes if needed; do this in spring or early summer.
Is the ZZ plant toxic to pets?
Yes. ZZ contains calcium oxalate crystals and can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and drooling if chewed or ingested.
Why are my ZZ's leaves drooping?
Drooping usually indicates overwatering or root issues; check soil moisture and root health, and adjust watering or repot if necessary.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025