ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia · also called Zanzibar gem, eternity plant, aroid palm
The ZZ plant is a nearly indestructible houseplant with glossy leaves that thrives in low light and infrequent watering. Ideal for beginners and dim rooms.
Zamioculcas zamiifolia is one of the toughest houseplants available, storing water in thick underground rhizomes that let it survive weeks of neglect. Its waxy, deep-green leaflets line upright stems that arch outward, giving a sculptural look that suits modern interiors and offices alike.
Native to drought-prone regions of eastern Africa, the ZZ plant is built to handle dry air, low light, and long gaps between waterings, which makes it almost impossible to kill through forgetfulness. The far more common mistake is overwatering, which rots the rhizomes. Slow but steady, it is a perfect choice for beginners, travelers, and low-light corners.
How to care for ZZ Plant
Light
ZZ plants tolerate low light better than almost any houseplant, but they grow fastest and fullest in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the glossy leaves. A north window or an interior office with fluorescent lighting works fine, just expect slower growth.
Watering
Let the soil dry almost completely between waterings, roughly every 2 to 3 weeks, then water thoroughly until it drains. The water-storing rhizomes make this plant far more tolerant of drought than of excess moisture. When in doubt, wait, as overwatering is the leading cause of ZZ plant death.
Humidity
Average household humidity is fine, and the plant tolerates the dry air common in heated or air-conditioned rooms. There is no need to mist or use a humidifier. This adaptability is part of why it thrives in offices.
Temperature
Keep it between 65 and 80F. It dislikes cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 45F or to chilly drafts. Normal indoor room temperatures suit it year-round.
Soil & potting mix
Use a well-draining potting mix; a standard houseplant mix amended with perlite or a cactus and succulent blend prevents soggy roots. Good drainage is essential to protect the rhizomes. Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Feeding
Feed lightly, about once a month during spring and summer, with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. ZZ plants are slow growers and need little feeding. Skip fertilizer entirely in fall and winter.
Pruning & grooming
Minimal pruning is needed. Trim away any yellowing or damaged stems at the base with clean shears. You can remove an entire stem to control size or shape, as new growth emerges from the rhizomes.
Repotting
Repot every 2 to 3 years, or when the rhizomes begin to crack or deform the pot. Move up one pot size in spring. The bulbous rhizomes are visible at the soil surface and can be divided at repotting time.
Propagation
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes at repotting, or by rooting individual leaflets in moist soil, though leaf propagation is very slow and can take many months. Division is faster and more reliable. Be patient, as ZZ plants do nothing quickly.
Common ZZ Plant problems
- Yellowing leaves. Widespread yellowing almost always signals overwatering and the early stages of rhizome rot. Let the soil dry out fully, check the rhizomes for mushy spots, and water far less often going forward.
- Mushy, rotting stems. Soft brown stems at the base mean the rhizomes are rotting from too much moisture. Remove affected stems, repot into fresh dry mix, and salvage any firm rhizomes by letting them dry before replanting.
- Leggy, sparse growth. Stems that stretch and flop usually mean the plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter indirect spot to encourage compact, upright growth, though some stretching is normal in very low light.
ZZ Plant FAQ
How often should I water a ZZ plant?
Roughly every 2 to 3 weeks, and only once the soil has dried out almost completely. The plant stores water in its underground rhizomes, so it handles drought far better than soggy soil. In low light or winter, you may water even less often.
Can a ZZ plant survive in low light?
Yes, the ZZ plant is one of the best houseplants for low-light rooms and windowless offices with overhead lighting. It will grow more slowly and stay smaller than one in bright indirect light, but it stays healthy. Just avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Why are my ZZ plant's leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a ZZ plant are the classic sign of overwatering and beginning rhizome rot. Let the soil dry out completely, then check the rhizomes for soft, mushy spots and trim any that are rotting. Going forward, water much less frequently.