ZZ plant – Indoor House Plants

ZZ plant is stemless. Petioles arise directly from the rhizome. Leaflets along the petiole are arranged alternately. A ZZ plant variety with variegated leaflets is occasionally available for sale through specialty outlets. It is often used as a pseudo-bonsai. ZZ plant is enjoyed for its unique appearance, its ability to grow under low light conditions, and its tolerance to drought. ZZ’s naturally glossy leaves are so shiny that the plant appears to have been polished.

Scientific name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Common name: ZZ plant

How to grow and maintain ZZ plant:

Light requirement:

ZZ is easily maintained under low light interiors in homes and offices. Soil preference: Any well-drained peat- or bark-based potting soil can be used.

Soil:

Most well draining potting mixes will suffice that contains a high amount of perlite or sand within the mix (you can add more perlite or sand if needed to a mix that is bought). Good drainage holes at the bottom of the pot is essential.

Water requirement:

Do not allow ZZ to sit in water. Allow the soil to become dry between waterings.

Fertilizer:

ZZ is a slow-growing plant, even under favorable conditions. Apply low-dose liquid fertilizer according to manufacturer instructions twice per year.

Propagation:

You may propagate by dividing rhizomes or with leaf cuttings. Leaf cuttings have to be placed in a pot with a plastic covering and then the wait for roots to begin growing, which could take up to a year

Pruning:

Cut away leaflets that are turning yellow near the base of a stem. Once a stem has grown much longer than all other stems you can remove that stem or cut it to size at the tip. The problem with cutting it to size at the tip is it can look quite odd, so removing it completely might be the best option.