I’ll be the first one to admit that my windowsills have become plant graveyards, and my only gardening skill to speak of is my ability to both over-water and under-water, somehow at the same time. The exception is my ever-blooming ZZ plant, which has so far been the only greenery in my apartment that has managed to thrive through my neglect. Even easy houseplants like philodendrons and air plants can’t compete with this beginner-friendly option. If you’re also a hopeless gardener, here is everything you need to know about owning and caring for ZZ plants.
What are ZZ plants?
ZZ plants, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, are considered a nearly-indestructible indoor plant. Originally native to eastern Africa, they have glossy green leaves and are considered perennials, meaning they can live for multiple years and persist through every season. While they can be outdoor plants, they do best in temperatures above 60 degrees, which is why they’re most often considered for indoor living.
How much sunlights do ZZ plants need?
It’s recommended that ZZ plants receive indirect, bright sunlights. However, experts agree–and I can attest–that they’re highly adaptable even in low-light conditions. West, north, and east-facing windows are all fine options for a ZZ plant. The less light your plant receives, the slower it will grow.
A man pours earth from his hands into a pot.
How should you water ZZ plants?
ZZ plants are drought-resistant varieties. In the winter, ZZ plants don’t need to be watered often. In fact, I once left my ZZ plant for six months unattended, and came back to it still thriving with new growth. You can occasionally water if the soil feels dry. A telltale sign of watering too much is yellowing leaves. On the other hand, ZZ plants distinctive shiny green leaves may become dull if they’re dehydrated.
Should you prune ZZ plants?
Yes, you should prune ZZ plants, but only when necessary. ZZ plants are generally low-maintenance and don’t require regular pruning. That said, ZZ plants can grow quite large over time and pruning their stems can help manage their shape or size. It can also be helpful by removing dead or yellowing leaves and promoting new growth.
When pruning, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and cut just above the base of the stem. Prune sparingly to avoid stressing the plant, as ZZ plants grow slowly and can take time to recover from excessive cutting.
Can you propagate ZZ plants?
Yes, ZZ plants can be propagated, and there are two main methods to do so: through leaf cuttings and by division. For leaf cuttings, you start by selecting a healthy leaf from the plant and cutting it at the base. After allowing the leaf to dry for a few hours to prevent rot, you can either place it in a small container filled with well-draining soil or in water. If using soil, you should water lightly, while for water propagation, it’s important to regularly change the water. Over time, which could take several weeks to months, small tubers and roots will form at the base of the leaf. Once the roots are established, you can transfer it into a pot with soil.
Another option is propagating by division. To do this, gently remove the ZZ plant from its pot and shake off excess soil. You’ll notice natural divisions in the rhizomes, the thick, bulbous roots of the plant. You can separate these sections by hand or with a clean, sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one stem and some roots. Once divided, each section should be replanted in a separate pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Both water and soil propagation methods are effective. Water propagation allows for easier monitoring of root growth, though it takes longer for the plant to transition to soil. Soil propagation, while slower in showing initial results, establishes the plant directly in its growing environment. Division, on the other hand, typically results in faster growth.
Are ZZ plants pet-safe?
ZZ plants are considered toxic to pets, to be sure to keep them out of the way of cats and dogs who might be tempted to take a bite.
The Sill ZZ Plant
The Sill Black ZZ Plant
Tatjana Freund is Hearst’s Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor, covering beauty, fashion and more across multiple brands. Previously, she worked at ELLE.com and Marie Claire. She’s a fan of whiskey neat, podcasts that give her nightmares, and one time Zoë Kravitz laughed at a joke she made.
