Glossy, architectural and nearly unkillable — the ZZ stores water in fat rhizomes and shrugs off dark corners and missed waterings. The ultimate low-care statement plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 90 cm tall
- Aspect: shade and low-light positions and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia is a slow-growing indoor plant in the Araceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in shade and low-light positions and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit ZZ Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
ZZ Plant handles dry conditions well once established. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune ZZ Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using ZZ Plant in the garden
ZZ Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
ZZ Plant sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to very drought tolerant and tropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
