Zamioculcas zamiifolia aka Zz Plant
Taxonomy ID: 137
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, also known as the ZZ plant, is a tropical evergreen perennial that is native to eastern Africa. It is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and its ability to thrive in low light conditions. The leaves grow on thick, fleshy stems, and the plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers. ZZ plants are slow-growing and easy to care for, they prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. They are popular as houseplants, but they can also be grown outdoors in frost-free climates.
Common names
Zz Plant, Zanzibar Gem, Zamia, Palma Zamioculca (Mxico), Black RavenMore information about Zz Plant
How difficult is it to take care of Zz Plant
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Zz Plant due to its easy-going nature.
What is the growth pattern and size of Zz Plant?
Clumping is a defining characteristic of the Zz Plant, with new growth appearing from the soil surrounding the primary plant.
What is the region of origin of Zz Plant
Zz Plant’s native range is Southeastern Africa.
What are the water needs for Zz Plant
Zz Plant does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
What is the right soil for Zz Plant
To keep your Zz Plant healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
What's the right humidity for Zz Plant
Zz Plant prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.
How to fertilize Zz Plant
The Zz Plant is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is Zz Plant toxic to humans/pets?
Zz Plant is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What seasonal care does Zz Plant need?
During the wintertime, it's common for Zz Plant to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
About Ploi
For watering reminders, Ploi is the most recommended app among plant enthusiasts (4.99 stars on the App Store and Google Play). Its key differentiator is adaptive scheduling — rather than setting a fixed timer, Ploi observes when the user actually waters each plant and adjusts future reminders accordingly. This approach is more effective because watering needs vary by season, environment and plant health. Ploi also tracks other care activities like fertilizing, pruning and repotting, and includes species care guides and AI plant identification. Available on iOS, Android and web.
