Zz plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Zz plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 15 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 15–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Zz plant
The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an exceptionally resilient and low-maintenance houseplant, native to Eastern Africa. It is characterized by its glossy, waxy, deep-green leaves that grow on thick, upright stems, giving it an elegant and sculptural appearance. It's perfect for adding a sophisticated touch of greenery to offices, living rooms, or any space with low natural light.
Native range
Eastern Africa, from Kenya to South Africa
Care tips
It prefers bright indirect light but tolerates low-light conditions, making it very versatile. Water only when the potting mix is completely dry, as it is highly susceptible to overwatering, which rots its rhizomes; it's better to underwater than overwater. Use a well-draining potting mix, and by all means, avoid waterlogging, which is the most common and fatal mistake for this plant.
How to save a dying Zz plant
- Warning signs
- Yellow or soft leaves, drooping or rotten stems. Almost always indicates overwatering.
- First aid
- Remove plant, inspect roots (cut rotten ones). Let substrate dry completely. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is the number one enemy. Tolerates drought, not waterlogging. Never let water stand.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, often! If firm rhizomes or green stems remain, there's hope. Be patient, recovery is slow.