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An Illustration of a single green ZZ plant with tall stems and many leaves on a plain background.

ZZ Plant

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Zamioculcas zamifolia

KNOWN AS: Zanzibar Gem, Zuzu Plant, Emerald Palm, Aroid Palm

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Eastern & Southern Africa | Subtropical Savannah

DESCRIPTION: ZZ plants have tall, sturdy stems with many leaves. The leaves are shiny and bright green, which can make them look like a fake plant. This is okay, because ZZ plants thrive when they are not cared for very well.

Easy difficulty & pet toxic

ZZ Plant Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light); Low Light Tolerant

ZZ plants are versatile and can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, but they do best in bright, indirect light. Look for a spot near a west or east-facing window where your ZZ plant can receive bright, filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight as it can scorch their leaves. If needed, you can use a LED grow light to emulate natural light. To ensure even growth and prevent your ZZ plant from leaning toward the light source, rotate it once every few weeks. This allows all sides of the plant to receive adequate light and promotes a balanced appearance.

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White Soltech Aspect Gen 2 Hanging over Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant with a Teal background.
White Soltech Aspect Gen 2 Hanging over Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant with a Teal background.
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A white Soltech Vita displayed against a yellow background with a wicker object and a green leaf in the backdrop.
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A white Soltech Highland on the Highland Track Light System mounted on a rail, with a backdrop of an orange wall and green foliage.
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A Black Soltech Grove positioned on a table with a plant in the background, illustrating the product's use for indoor plants.
A Black Soltech Grove positioned on a table with a plant in the background, illustrating the product's use for indoor plants.
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Watering

Quick Tip: Water until water comes out of drainage holes. Allow top 2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings.

ZZ plants are known for being able to withstand arid environments and endure extended periods of time without water. To keep them healthy, it's still critical to make sure they get enough water, though. Watering ZZ plants sparingly but deeply is the best method. After letting the soil almost entirely dry between waterings, thoroughly water the plant, making sure the water soaks into the ground. Always let the pot's extra water drain out before putting it back on the saucer. Avoid putting ZZ plants in standing water for long periods of time because they are sensitive to overwatering. It's also crucial to remember that ZZ plants are sensitive to root rot, so they must not be overwatered.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 60º - 85º

ZZ plants are renowned for their capacity to flourish in low-light and low-maintenance environments. They are appropriate for interior spaces since they can adjust to a wide range of temperatures. ZZ plants thrive best in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 24 degrees Celsius). They can withstand temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius) and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius), respectively. Extreme temperature changes and exposure to drafts should be avoided, though, since they can stress and harm the plant. The healthiest development and general wellbeing of ZZ plants will be facilitated by maintaining the temperature within the advised range.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 40 - 60%; Moderate Humidity

For ZZ plants, a humidity range of 40% to 60% is recommended. If the humidity in your home is frequently lower than this range, you can raise the humidity level around your plant by spraying it frequently or setting up a humidifier close by. As an alternative, you may put a tray of water close to the plant. Just be careful not to let the pot sit in the water, as this can cause root rot. But, if the humidity is persistently higher than this range, you can help reduce it by improving ventilation or relocating the plant to a better-ventilated area. High humidity levels can delay the rate at which water evaporates from the soil, so you should also cut back on watering. The humidity requirements of your ZZ plant may also be impacted by placing it in locations with temperature extremes or in intense sunshine. You can help make sure your ZZ plant stays strong and healthy by following these humidity suggestions.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, often known as ZZ Plants, can be multiplied through stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut a healthy stem with numerous leaves at a 45-degree angle in order to proliferate by stem cuttings. After letting the cutting dry for a couple of hours, immerse the end into rooting hormone powder. Put the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it in a warm, bright, and humid location. Provide moderate irrigation on the cutting to prevent overwatering. During a few weeks, the cutting should sprout roots and new growth. Carefully take the plant from its container and divide the root ball into two or more portions to proliferate by splitting it. Fresh soil mix should be used to plant each portion, and water each one sparingly until new growth starts to form.
Toxicity
The ZZ plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are common in many plants and can cause irritation and discomfort when consumed. If a person or pet ingests the ZZ plant, they may experience symptoms commonly associated with allergic reactions, such as mouth and throat irritation, drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, more severe reactions may occur, including swelling of the throat, tongue, or lips, or difficulty breathing. It's important to note that while the ZZ plant is considered toxic, it is not typically fatal. However, it's always a good idea to seek medical attention or consult a veterinarian if you suspect ingestion or if any symptoms occur.
Repotting
Repotting ZZ plants is rather simple, and doing so every two to three years will encourage healthy growth. To repot a ZZ plant, use a pot with drainage holes at the bottom that is 1-2 inches larger than the existing pot. The plant should be taken out of its pot and any tangled roots should be gently untangled. Place the plant in the center of the new pot after adding fresh potting soil to the bottom of it. Add more dirt around the sides until the plant is level with the soil surface. Give the plant plenty of water, and let the soil fully drain. After repotting, it's crucial to avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot. Wait a few weeks before fertilizing the plant to give it time to become used to its new habitat. Put the plant in a bright, indirect light.
Pruning
To keep ZZ plant's size and shape, or to get rid of any damaged or dead leaves, trimming is an option. When the plant is actively developing in the spring or summer, prune it. Cut any dead or yellowing leaves back to the stem's base to begin removing them. Remove any broken or damaged stems together with the others. A portion of the leaves can be removed without harming ZZ plants since they store water in their tubers. Pruning shouldn't be done more than a third of the plant's total size at once because doing so can stress the plant. The ZZ plant can look healthy and promote new growth with routine pruning. ZZ plants should only be pruned using clean, sharp instruments to prevent plant damage.
Fertilizing
ZZ plants, are fairly low-maintenance and don't need fertilizer very frequently. Yet, during the growing season, the plant can benefit from sporadic fertilization to promote development and preserve its health. Throughout the growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to the soil every two to three months by diluting it to half strength. Prevent overfertilizing the plant to prevent salt buildup in the soil and root burn. Consider using a fertilizer made for plants that prefer acidic soil. When fertilizing ZZ plants, it's crucial to carefully follow the instructions on the package to prevent injury to the plant or nutrient imbalances.
Soil
ZZ plants need well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0 that is slightly acidic. A well-draining soil mix with a combination of perlite, peat moss, and sand or vermiculite is an ideal potting mix for ZZ plants. Use light soils wherever possible since heavy soils, like those with a lot of clay, can hold too much moisture and cause root rot. It's crucial to avoid overwatering ZZ plants because they are accustomed to hot, dry conditions and are native to Africa. As they are prone to root rot in soggy soil, it is better to let the soil somewhat dry out in between waterings. Since ZZ plants are also sensitive to excessive salt levels in the soil, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a low salt concentration instead of water that has a high salt content. Appropriate soil conditions can assist ensure the health and vitality of ZZ plants, and promote new growth and leaves.

Hanging Heights

ZZ Plant Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light); Low Light Tolerant

Chart showing recommended hanging heights for Soltech Aspect and popular plants for each range.

Aspect Hanging Heights - ZZ Plant

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Soltech's Recommendation -

24" to 36"

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VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - ZZ Plant

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : 24" to 36"

60º Wide Beam Vita : 12" to 24"

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VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - ZZ Plant

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 30" to 42"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 18" to 30"

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VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - ZZ Plant

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 1" to 24"

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VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

Lighting guide for plants with Soltech Aura and potted plants on a neutral background

Aura Light Distances - ZZ Plant

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 8" to 18"

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VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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