ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
A drought-tolerant Eastern African plant with arching stems and glossy leaflets that look almost plastic. Thick underground rhizomes store water, so it thrives on missed waterings and low light as long as the pot drains well.
Light
Low
Water
Low
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Low
Pet Warning
The ZZ plant contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, it can cause immediate pain or a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, swelling, and digestive upset in pets and humans.
Full care guide
ZZ Plant Care
Grow Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) with bright indirect light when you can, a full dry-down between waterings, and gritty soil so the rhizomes stay firm.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Bright indirect light supports the best growth. Extreme low light is survivable, but growth stalls. Avoid direct sun that burns leaves.
Water
Water only when the mix is dry top to bottom. In winter, once a month is often enough. Always use a pot with drainage holes so rhizomes do not rot.
Soil
A well-draining mix with perlite or pumice keeps rhizomes safe. Skip heavy soils that stay wet for days.
Humidity & Temperature
Low humidity is fine. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. Skip leaf-shine products; the plant is naturally glossy. In winter, water less and pause fertilizer while growth slows.
Common Issues
Yellow or soft stems usually mean overwatering. Wrinkled leaflets can mean the plant went too long without water. Slow growth in deep shade is normal; move closer to a window if you want new shoots.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (10-10-10)
Soil
Well-draining, aerated potting soil with a neutral pH.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
2 to 4 feet tall
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Division of the rhizomes or stem and leaf cuttings.
Common Varieties
Raven (near-black foliage)
Thick glossy oval leaves that emerge lime green, then mature to a waxy near-black.
Zenzi (dwarf cultivar)
Compact dwarf form with thick succulent stems and dense clusters of glossy deep green leaves.
Lucky Classic
Glossy deep green foliage with broader, rounder leaflets than the standard narrow lance-shaped form.