Zz Plant, one of the most favorable plants, adds a hint of glam indoors like offices, workplaces, malls, houses, and so on. This houseplant emits such good vibes to where it is. For that reason, it is an irreplaceable member of plant collection for houses in a sense. This plant has many names, for example, Zanzibar Gem, Zuzu Plant, Aroid Palm, Eternity Palm, Emerald Palm, and so forth. Also, its scientific name is Zamioculcas zamiifolia. It naturally grows in the tropical regions of Africa, for example, countries like Kenya, South Africa. Above all, this flowering plant is effective in purifying airborne toxins like Aluminum Plant and Arrowhead Plant.
General Information
Zz Plant has thick, herbaceous, green stems growing upward, with oval-shaped, glossy, dark green foliage, and tuber roots storing water. Also, flowers with a white spathe covering the green spadix bloom at the base of the stems in spring. Newbies who grow this houseplant don’t realize its flower in the first place. The reason is its flower develops slowly by hiding among plenty of stems. As for the length, it could reach up to 3 ft (1 m) indoors. However, ones that are bigger than indoors might be available in nature. When it comes to its lifespan, this flowering plant is an evergreen perennial such as Hearthleaf Philodendron and Rose Painted Calathea. As a note, all parts of these plants are poisonous to pets and even adults. Therefore, when ingested, it could harm.
How to Care for Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Sunlight
Full sunlight all day long affects the Zz plant negatively. Because direct sunlight loads a lot of burden on molecules such as chlorophyll. In the end, the plant dies. But instead, sheltered locations and semi-shade spots are ideal for this houseplant. Bright and diffused sunlight would be more effective in its growth.
Watering
Due to having rhizomes, this houseplant is drought-tolerant. I mean, it is more suitable for forgetful newbies. To put it clearly, it can resist months without watering. But as for regular waterings, water it when the potting soil is dry.
Humidity
Average room conditions are okay for this houseplant. But to obtain more humidity, you can use electronic humidifiers, wet trays, and water sprays.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range is 65°F – 80°F (18°C – 27°C). However, below 59°F (15°C) could be dangerous for it. Also, sudden temperature drops and cold drafts could kill the plant. According to the USDA plant hardiness map, it can grow in zones 9 – 11.
Soil Type
According to the soil types, it isn’t picky. Soils such as sandy, loamy would also work. But despite everything, the potting soil should be well-drained. The most important thing is to keep the soil moist but not too soggy.
Planter Type
Generally, this houseplant stays relatively medium when reaching its mature state. For that reason, it might be showier in small planters, some of which are ceramic and wicker.
Fertilizer
This plant needs water-soluble fertilizers monthly in its growing season. As a note, before administering the fertilizer, you should water the plant.
Propagation
There are two well-known propagation ways. Either you divide rhizomes and then share each per pot, or you can prefer leaf cuttings. The first way is the most common for its propagation.
Repotting
Within five years, repot the plant yearly in spring. The roots become too complex in the soil when the plant outgrew. That’s why the new pot should be a little bit larger than the existing one. As a suggestion, you can choose wicker planter baskets.
Common Problems
Brown leaf: Too much sunlight exposure makes leaves brown. First of all, the problem begins with leaf tips and edges. If the plant is ignored by its newbies for a while, the brown color spreads quickly. After all, the plant scorches. Meanwhile, overfertilizing and dry setting conditions can also lead to this problem.
Root rot: The weakest point of this plant is overwatering. Because it is already a drought-tolerant plant. Due to its tuber roots, it stores a lot of water for its body. Specifically, yellow leaves are a significant indicator of this problem.
Pest infestation: Mealybugs, aphids, scales, mites, and so on wreak havoc on this houseplant. Especially, they emerge when dry and poor conditions occur.
Suggestions for problems
To prevent occurring brown leaves, you should arrange a better spot for this flowering plant. Also, apply enough fertilizer and ensure the optimal humidity level. Overwatering is the most common problem the plant is faced. For that reason, you should be loyal to the proper watering frequency. To deal with pests, you can use alcohol-based wipes, pesticides, and neem oils.
Suggestions for beginners
Zz Plant’s leaves draw plenty of dust when ignored for a long time. This situation could be dangerous for this plant. To clarify, pores of leaves may clog up when a layer of dust covers upon leaves. A damp cloth would work to keep leaves clean and healthy.
