ZZ Plants are stunning, unique-looking houseplants that are prized for their exotic appearance and easy care nature. If this plant has been on your list of tropical houseplants to add to your indoor plant collection, we are not only here to supply you with a healthy plant, but also all the knowledge and information you could need to make sure it thrives in your home. Join us as we explore everything you need to know about ZZ Plants, from their ideal growing conditions to tips on watering, light, and overall care, ensuring your ZZ Plant remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
What Is a ZZ Plant?
A ZZ Plant, short for Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a popular houseplant known for its striking appearance and easy care. It features glossy, dark green leaves that grow on thick, upright stems, giving it a sculptural and elegant look. Native to East Africa, the ZZ Plant is incredibly hardy and can thrive in low-light conditions, making it an ideal choice for both homes and offices. It is also drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and care, which adds to its appeal as a low-maintenance plant. ZZ Plants have roots that are unlike most houseplants. Their roots consist of potato-like rhizomes that store water beneath the surface of the soil, contributing to their drought tolerance. The ZZ Plant not only enhances indoor spaces with its lush foliage but also purifies the air, making it a functional and beautiful addition to any room.
Different Types of ZZ Plants
There are tons of different types of ZZ Plants, though the two most common to find at Garden Centers across the country are the standard Zamioculcas zamiifolia plant and the Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Black Raven'. If you are looking to purchase a ZZ plant, stop by Bath Garden Center to browse our wide selection of beautiful and healthy houseplants.
ZZ Plant Care Tips
Caring for a Zamioculcas zamiifolia plants is easy. Here are some key tips for how to care for a ZZ Plant.
1. Light Requirements
ZZ Plants do well in low to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, causing irreversible burn damage.
2. How to Water ZZ Plants
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's better to underwater than to overwater.
3. Best Soil for ZZ Plants
Use well-draining potting soil. A mix designed for succulents works well. You can also amend regular potting soil with perlite, sand, or lava rock to enhance drainage.
4. Ideal Temperature and Humidity
ZZ Plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and always slowly acclimate plants to new locations or growing conditions. ZZ Plants thrive in average humidity but can also tolerate dry air.
5. Fertilizing ZZ Plants
Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season (spring and summer). Since ZZ Plants are slow growers, fertilizing too much or too frequently can burn the roots of the plant and cause a decline in health.
6. Pruning
ZZ Plants do not require any regular trimming or pruning. Simply remove any yellowing or dead leaves with clean, sharp scissors to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
7. Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot, using fresh soil to promote healthy growth. ZZ Plants do prefer to grow in slightly rootbound conditions, so be sure not to up-pot into too large of a container.
How To Propagate a ZZ Plant
Propagating ZZ Plants is a simple and rewarding process that can be done in a few different ways. Here are the two most popular ways to propagate Zamioculcas zamiifolia.
Propagating from Leaf Cuttings
The most common method is through leaf cuttings. To do this, cut a healthy leaf from the plant and allow it to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, plant the cut end into a pot filled with well-draining soil, and water lightly. Place the pot in indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist. Over time, the leaf will develop roots and eventually grow into a new plant, though this can take several months. Another option instead of planting your cutting directly in soil is to place the cutting in water and wait for roots to grow before planting the cutting in soil.
Propagating by Division
Another method is dividing the plant at the roots, which is faster and ensures new growth. Simply remove the plant from its pot, gently separate the rhizomes (the thick, root-like structures), and plant them in new pots. Both methods are easy and can give you multiple ZZ Plants to enjoy or share!
How to Pot and Repot a ZZ Plant
Potting and repotting a ZZ Plant is a straightforward but necessary process that helps ensure the healthy growth of any houseplant. Begin by selecting a houseplant pot or container that is slightly larger than the current one, as ZZ Plants prefer snug conditions but need room to grow. It is best to choose a pot with drainage holes, as this will help avoid any issues with overwatering and root rot. Fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix or potting soil amended with perlite or lava rock. Carefully remove the ZZ Plant from its old pot, gently loosening the roots. Place the plant in the new pot, making sure it sits at the same depth as before, then fill in around it with more soil, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets. You can also pat the sides of the pot when adding soil to help the soil settle into the spaces around the roots. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting, allowing any excess water to drain fully. Repotting is usually necessary every two to three years, or when you notice the plant becoming root-bound. Repotting plants periodically is important since old soil will be void of nutrients and may not be able to support healthy plant growth. Plants that have outgrown their pots will become root-bound which will also lead to a decline in the health of the plant. If you need help knowing whether or not it is time to repot your plant, let us know! We are happy to help diagnose anything that may be going on with your plant and we even offer houseplant repotting services.
Common Issues with ZZ Plants
If you are new to ZZ Plant care and your plant is exhibiting some behaviors you are unfamiliar with, here are some common issues with ZZ Plants and how to mitigate them.
Yellowing Leaves
Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Since ZZ Plants store water underground in their rhizomes, this makes them very hardy and able to withstand drought conditions. They can go for weeks without water! So, water only when the soil is completely dry, and if your container does not have drainage holes, consider repotting in a container that does to promote good drainage and reduces the risk of overwatering.
Leaf Drop
Can be caused by underwatering, low humidity, extreme temperature fluctuations, or sudden changes in the environment. Check your soil and consider altering your watering routine. Increase humidity by adding a humidifier or pebble tray, or by grouping your houseplants. If you have just brought your plant home from the store or have recently moved it to a new location in your home, allow it a couple of weeks to adjust to the new environment. During the winter, keep your plant away from windows and doors that could produce cold drafts, as this can also be a cause of leaf drop.
Root Rot
Typically due to consistently soggy soil from overwatering or a pot without drainage. This is often indicated by yellowing leaves or stems becoming soft and mushy. Since this fungal disease often affects plants systemically, it can be very difficult to mitigate. If caught early, you can attempt to save the plant by repotting it in new soil. Be sure to thoroughly wash the container and rinse the roots of the plant, trimming away any dead or unhealthy looking roots. Repot in fresh soil and be extremely wary of overwatering. Learn more about root rot in our blog, Root Rot in Houseplants: Key Signs, How to Fix, & Prevention Methods.
Brown Leaf Tips
Usually a result of too much direct sunlight or low humidity. Increase humidity by adding a humidifier or pebble tray, or by grouping your houseplants. If your plant is receiving direct sunlight, consider moving it to a more sheltered area that receives bright indirect sunlight. Many low-light plants can tolerate more direct sun, however, they need to be very gradually acclimated to any changes in environment, as sudden changes can have a large impact on the health of the plant.
Slow Growth
ZZ Plants are naturally slow growers, but insufficient light or nutrients can further stunt growth. ZZ Plants are very tolerant of low-light conditions, but if you have it in a space that receives little to no natural light, you must be prepared for little to no regular growth. Consider adding grow lights to the space or moving the plant to an area that receives more light. If your ZZ Plant is in an area that receives ample sunlight but still is not showing any signs of new growth, consider fertilizing your plant, being extremely careful not to over-fertilize. You may also want to repot your plant if it has been a couple of years since its last repotting, as fresh soil will hold nutrients that may encourage new growth in the plant.
Pests
While generally resistant, ZZ Plants can occasionally attract pests like spider mites, mealy bugs, or aphids. It is always recommended to periodically inspect your plants for such pests so that you can catch infestations early and keep these unwanted critters from killing your plant or spreading to other plants in your home. If you have noticed pests on your ZZ Plant, you can attempt to remove the pests by spraying it down in the shower or wiping the leaves. Then thoroughly spray the plant with a pest control product like Bonide Captain Jack's Deadbug Brew or Bonide Neem Oil. You can also sprinkle a systemic pest control solution over the soil of your plant so that any insects feeding on your plant will die immediately. For more information on how to get rid of houseplant pests, visit the Pests & Disease section of our blog!
Leggy Stems
Indicate the plant is not getting enough light and is stretching towards a light source. If your ZZ Plant is exhibiting this kind of growth, consider supplementing light by adding a grow light or moving your plant closer to a window that receives bright, indirect light. If you only have so many windows in your home with adequate lighting, put your plants on a rotation every couple of months to ensure that each of them gets the light they need to keep growing strong.
Common ZZ Plant FAQ's
Q: Does a ZZ plant clean the air?
A: Yes, ZZ Plants are known to help clean the air. They can remove toxins like xylene, toluene, and benzene from the environment, making them a great choice for improving indoor air quality.
Q. Are ZZ plants toxic to dogs, cats, or other pets?
A: Yes, ZZ Plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and discomfort if ingested. If a pet chews on or eats a ZZ Plant, it may experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. It's important to keep ZZ Plants out of reach of pets to prevent any potential health issues.
Q. Where should I place a ZZ plant in my house?
A: ZZ Plants are versatile and can thrive in various lighting conditions, making them easy to place in your home. Ideally, place your ZZ Plant in a spot with indirect light, such as near a north or east-facing window. They can also tolerate low light, making them suitable for darker corners or rooms with less natural light. Avoid placing your ZZ Plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If you’re looking to brighten up a space, a ZZ Plant can even do well under fluorescent lighting, making it perfect for offices or rooms without windows.
Q. Should I mist my ZZ plant?
A: Misting your ZZ Plant is generally unnecessary. ZZ Plants are adapted to survive in dry conditions and store water in their rhizomes, so they don’t require high humidity. In fact, misting can sometimes lead to excess moisture on the leaves, which may encourage fungal growth or attract pests. Instead, focus on watering the plant when the soil is completely dry, and ensure it’s in a well-ventilated area to maintain healthy growth.
Q. How do I know if my ZZ is overwatered?
A: Overwatering a ZZ Plant can lead to several noticeable signs. One of the earliest indicators of overwatering is yellowing leaves. The leaves may start to turn yellow, particularly from the bottom up. Overwatered ZZ Plants may develop soft, mushy stems. If the stems feel squishy when touched, this could be a sign of rot due to excess water. If the plant is wilting even though the soil is still moist, this is another clear sign of overwatering. The roots may be suffocating and unable to take in water properly. Overwatering can cause the rhizomes and roots to rot, as well. So, if you notice a foul odor coming from the soil or see blackened, mushy roots when you remove the plant from its pot, it’s suffering from root rot. Excess moisture can also lead to mold or fungus growth on the soil surface, indicating that the plant is getting too much water. To prevent overwatering, always let the soil dry out completely between waterings and ensure the pot has proper drainage. It is also always recommended to check the moisture of your soil either by sticking your finger in the soil or by using a soil moisture meter.
Contact Bath Garden Center for all Your Houseplant Needs!
If you have any other questions about how to care for a ZZ Plant or any other plant for that matter, reach out to us! You can give us a call, send us an email, fill out a contact form, or visit us in-store. Our blog and YouTube channel are also full of helpful plant info. We also have plant care guides available for you to download and print for easy reference when caring for your plants. Here at Bath Garden Center, it is our goal to help you grow better, naturally, and nothing makes us happier than to help you with all your plant needs!
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