PlantWhy

ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas zamiifolia · Houseplant

A nearly indestructible plant with waxy, dark green leaflets on upright stems. Underground rhizomes store water, so it forgives missed waterings and copes with low light, though it grows faster in brighter rooms.

ZZ Plant
Photo: WeFt, CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
💧WaterEvery 2–3 weeks, when soil is dry deep down (estimated)
☀️LightLow to bright indirect light
🐾PetsToxic to cats and dogs

Care at a glance

Light
Low to bright indirect light; no harsh direct sun
Water
When the soil is dry most of the way down
Soil
Fast-draining mix, pH 6.0–7.0
Temperature
Best 65–80 °F; keep above 50 °F
Pot size
Increase 1–2 in in diameter per repotting
Pot
Sturdy pot with drainage holes
Growth
Slow; a few new stems a year
Lifespan
10+ years

When?

Repot in spring when rhizomes start pushing against the pot sides. Divide rhizomes at the same time to make new plants.

Step by step

  1. Place anywhere with indirect light, even a darker hallway.
  2. Water thoroughly only when the soil is dry deep in the pot.
  3. Cut watering to every 4–6 weeks in winter.
  4. Feed 2–3 times in the growing season with diluted fertilizer.
  5. Wipe the glossy leaves to remove dust.
  6. Repot every 2–3 years, or when the pot starts to bulge.

Common problems

Yellow leaves and soft stemsOverwatering; stop watering and check rhizomes for rot.
Leaning, stretched stemsToo little light; move closer to a window.
No new growthNormal in winter or in low light; be patient.

Pets

Considered toxic to cats and dogs; chewing irritates the mouth and stomach. Wash hands after handling sap. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Related tools

Soil and mulch calculator

Similar plants

Snake PlantPothosChinese Evergreen

Sources

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.