Origin Story
The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is native to Eastern Africa, particularly Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Kenya. Its origin story involves its discovery by Western botanists in the late 19th century. The ZZ plant wasn't officially described and brought into cultivation until the late 20th century. Its resilience, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability have contributed to its popularity as a houseplant worldwide. The ZZ plant's journey from its native African habitat to becoming a trendy and cherished indoor plant is a testament to its ability to thrive in various environments, part of the reason why its our #1 gifted plant!
Is a ZZ an easy houseplant to care for?
Yes, the ZZ plant is one of the easiest houseplants to own or gift! ZZ plants need very little light, can survive long periods of drought and look pretty 24/7. Their shiny, structured leaves arch on long tubers that are anchored in roots made of little reservoirs called rhizomes. ZZ plants are able to withstand long periods of drought conditions due to the root system of a roots rhizomes. These round rhizomes store water like a reservoir that allows the plant to draw water as needed. ZZ plants typically grow in height and fullness during the spring and summer months. ZZ’s do not require repotting often and can remain happy for a few years at a time in a pot before needing to be potted up.
What type of sunlight does a ZZ require?
ZZ plants will thrive in conditions of bright indirect light, but can also manage in much lower conditions if they can get even a tiny bit of morning or afternoon light. Be mindful of avoiding harsh midday rays, the ZZ is very flexible and forgiving in nature when it comes to sunlight requirements.
How much watering is expected for a ZZ plant?
Keep your ZZ plant's soil slightly moist. Renowned for being virtually "unkillable," the resilient ZZ forgives occasional drought conditions due to its water-storing reservoirs. Be cautious about overwatering to prevent stem and root rot, and monitor for yellowing leaves as an indicator.
Does a ZZ need humidity?
The ZZ plant stores water in its thick foliage, tuberous fronds and in it’s rhizome roots. This characteristic gives the ZZ resilience against fluctuating climates such as inside our homes or workplaces. If we think of plants in their natural habitat it is likely more humid then in the locations we’ve styled our plants, therefore a humidifier is always a welcomed idea to support our indoor house plants.
Can I put my ZZ outside?
Yes! ZZ plants enjoy the great outdoors as long as they are not positioned to receive hot midday sunshine as this will scorch their shiny foliage. ZZ plants enjoy being placed somewhere with bright indirect sunshine for the majority of the day, think under a covered porch, styled around a patio or in a planter pot. Remember to check your plant before bringing inside for the winter, a good rule for this is to bring inside before there is risk of overnight frost.
Are ZZ plants safe for pets?
This plant is not recommended for people with inquisitive pets, if ingested the ZZ plant can cause stomach irritation.