The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), often called the "Zanzibar Gem" or "Eternity Plant," has earned its reputation as the king of indestructible houseplants. Native to the drought-prone regions of East Africa, this plant has evolved unique survival traits—like thick, water-storing rhizomes—that make it the perfect companion for beginners or forgetful decorators.
If you’re looking for a plant that thrives on neglect while looking like a high-end architectural masterpiece, this guide is for you.
ZZ Plant Quick Facts
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Light: Medium to bright indirect light (highly adaptable).
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Water: Every 2–3 weeks; let soil dry completely.
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Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
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Safety: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
1. How Can You Master the Light, From Dim Corners to Sunlit Rooms?
One of the ZZ plant's greatest strengths is its versatility. While it is often marketed as a "low-light plant," there is a nuance to its growth:
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The Sweet Spot: It flourishes best in bright, indirect light. Think of a spot near an east-facing window where it gets soft morning light without the harsh midday glare.
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Low Light Survival: It can survive in windowless offices or dim corners under fluorescent lights, but expect it to grow much slower.
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Avoid Direct Sun: Prolonged exposure to direct afternoon sun can scorch those glossy green leaves, leading to brown, crispy spots.
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Consider A Grow Light: When natural sunlight is not available a full spectrum LED grow light makes for a great solution! Soltech offers just what your ZZ plant needs, consider a Vita, Versa or Grove! Each of them can give your ZZ plant that bright, indirect light it needs.
2. The Golden Rule of Watering: Less is More
Overwatering is the #1 reason ZZ plants fail. Because they store water in potato-like rhizomes underground, they are essentially drought-tolerant tanks.
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The Finger Test: Stick your finger about two inches into the soil. If it feels moist, walk away. Only water when the soil is bone dry all the way through.
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Frequency: Typically, this means watering every 2 to 3 weeks in the summer and as little as once a month during the winter dormancy period.
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Drainage is Mandatory: Always use a pot with a drainage hole. If the rhizomes sit in "wet feet," they will quickly succumb to root rot. Etsy offers a wide variety of pots with drainage holes from many different sellers that are bound to fit your homes aesthetic!
3. How To Soil and Repot The ZZ Plant?
ZZ plants aren't picky, but they do require aeration to prevent moisture buildup.
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What Type Of Soil Should I Use For My ZZ Plant?: Use a standard potting mix blended with perlite, sand, or lava rocks to increase drainage. A cactus or succulent mix also works wonders. All can be purchased from The Home Depot by using the links above!
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When Is It Time To Repot?: These are slow growers. You only need to repot every 2 to 3 years. A clear sign it's time? When the roots start to deform the plastic nursery pot or push through the drainage holes. Check out our blog on the 3 essential steps to repotting here!
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Pot Size: Only move up 1–2 inches in diameter. ZZs actually prefer being slightly "snug" in their pots.
4. Troubleshooting Common ZZ Plant Problems
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What Do Yellow Leaves On My Plant Mean?: Usually a sign of overwatering. If the leaves are yellow and mushy, check the rhizomes for rot. If only one old leaf turns yellow, it might just be "retiring" naturally.
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Drooping Stems?: This can be a cry for help from extreme underwatering or a sign the plant isn't getting enough light to support its weight.
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Brown Tips?: Often caused by very dry air or inconsistent watering. While ZZs tolerate average home humidity, they appreciate being kept away from direct AC or heater blasts.
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Dusty Leaves?: Those waxy leaves are magnets for dust, which can block sunlight. Pro Tip: Wipe the leaflets with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them shining and healthy.
Spotting under or overwatering quickly can help your ZZ plant thrive. Here's our guide we've made to help you ensure you see the signs in your plants!
5. Propagation: How to Make More ZZs
Sharing is caring! You can easily grow new ZZ plants using two main methods:
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Division: When repotting, gently pull apart the rhizomes and plant them in separate containers.
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Leaf Cuttings: Snip a leaf as close to the stem as possible and tuck the base into moist soil. Be patient—this method can take several months to develop a new rhizome, but it’s incredibly rewarding to watch.
In conclusion, the ZZ plant stands out as a top-tier choice for any indoor space due to its remarkable resilience and striking aesthetic. By providing bright, indirect light and adhering to a strict "less is more" watering philosophy, you ensure your "Eternity Plant" remains a healthy, low-maintenance fixture in your home for years to come.
Building a routine of simple maintenance—like wiping dusty leaves and checking soil moisture every few weeks—is the key to success. This steady approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of indoor greenery without the stress of demanding care requirements.
