How to care for a ZZ (Zanzibar) Plant

Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, the ZZ plant's hardiness and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for indoor gardening.  ZZ plants are amazing plants that are easy to care for.  One of the main reasons for the ZZ plant's popularity is its ability to thrive in low-light conditions. It can tolerate a wide range of light levels, from low to bright, making it suitable for various indoor environments. The ZZ plant is also known by other names such as Zanzibar Gem, Zuzu plant, Emerald Palm, and Eternity plant. These plants originate from eastern Africa, specifically Zanzibar, Kenya, and Tanzania (it belongs to the Araceae plant family).  ZZ plants have smooth and shiny leaves that often look fake. Their dark, glossy green leaves are pinnate, meaning they are composed of several leaflets (like the veins of a feather). The plant is characterized by its upright growth habit and arching stems. They are however, some of the slowest-growing plants.

Light: ZZ plants are considered low-maintenance and are known for their resilience. These plants require a low amount of indirect light. You can grow them under grow lights or in a room with bright windows. If the plant becomes leggy (excessively long with straggly stems), the amount of light the plant is receiving is insufficient. 

Watering: ZZ plants are known for their drought tolerance. They store water in their rhizomes (their large, bulb-like roots that grows underground), allowing them to survive extended periods without water. This makes them an excellent choice for people who may forget to water their plants regularly.  Ensure the soil is well drained and look for the water to flow quickly out of the drainage holes when you water these plants (the soil should never stay saturated). Water your ZZ plant when the soil needs it, usually once a month during the cooler months and twice a month during the warmer months. 

Humidity: Unlike some tropical plants that may suffer in low humidity conditions, ZZ plants are not prone to common humidity-related issues. This makes them relatively easy to care for in a variety of indoor settings.  This makes the ZZ plant suitable for homes and offices with dry air.

Unhappy Houseplant signs: Repot your ZZ plants when the roots come out from the drainage holes. Wilting and wrinkling leaves are signs of under-watering, and yellow leaves are signs of overwatering.