ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas zamiifolia

ZZ Plant
Photo: User:WeFt via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, cropped.
Light
Low light to bright, indirect light. Best spot: close to a bright window but out of the sun's direct rays.
Water
Let it dry out between waterings
Humidity
Fine in ordinary indoor air
Temperature
Keep it above 60°F
Potting mix
A fast-draining cactus and succulent mix
Size
2 to 4 feet tall and wide, slowly
Pets
Keep away from pets

How to care for a ZZ plant

Treat it much like a succulent. Thick rhizomes under the soil store water, so it is very drought tolerant and does not tolerate wet feet. Water only once the mix has dried out completely: about twice a month in summer and once a month in winter. It grows in very low light, even under office fluorescents, but does best in bright, indirect light; direct sun scorches the leaves. Feed once or twice a year.

Common problems

No significant problems. Watch for scale insects.

Questions people ask

How much light does a ZZ plant need?

Low light to bright, indirect light. Best spot: close to a bright window but out of the sun's direct rays.

How often should I water a ZZ plant?

Let it dry out between waterings.

Is ZZ plant toxic to cats and dogs?

Treat it as unsafe. Not on the ASPCA list. NC State rates it medium toxicity to cats and dogs, with vomiting and diarrhea if leaves are eaten in quantity.

Sources

← All house plants

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