Source: Wikimedia Commons
ZZ Plant
BeginnerZamioculcas zamiifolia
A tough houseplant with beautiful thick, glossy dark green leaves. Tolerates extreme dryness.
About
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant or Zanzibar gem, is a perennial in the family Araceae, native to the dry grasslands and forests of eastern Africa, from Kenya to Zimbabwe. Its arching stems carry rows of glossy, oval, deep green leaflets, creating a polished, architectural appearance. The plant stores water and nutrients in thick underground rhizomes, giving it exceptional drought tolerance — watering just two to three times a month is sufficient. Its shade tolerance is equally remarkable; it is one of the few houseplants capable of growing in rooms with minimal natural light. Growth is very slow, and it rarely needs repotting. The only conditions to avoid are overwatering (which leads to rhizome rot) and prolonged direct sunlight. Its near-indestructible nature and elegant, lustrous foliage make it one of the most recommended plants for beginners.
Lifespan of the ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant lives Perennial (10+ years).
Size of the ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant grows to 30-90cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Eastern Africa (Kenya to Zimbabwe)
Lifespan
Perennial (10+ years)
Size
30-90cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Moderate watering
Growing Tips
Lighting
Avoid direct sun, but it is very shade-tolerant
Watering
It stores water in its rhizomes, so watering two or three times a month is enough. Highly drought tolerant; overwatering is the usual failure.
Temperature & Overwintering
Native to dry regions of East Africa and dislikes cold. In winter keep it in a warm room, away from cold windows.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining mix. Growth is slow and it rarely becomes root-bound, so repotting every few years is enough.
Pests & Cautions
Root rot from overwatering is almost the only way to lose it. Never leave water in the saucer, and water only after the soil dries.
ZZ Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for ZZ Plant?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of ZZ Plant?
The average lifespan of ZZ Plant is Perennial (10+ years). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does ZZ Plant get?
The mature size of ZZ Plant is 30-90cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize ZZ Plant?
ZZ Plant: watering & fertilizer — Moderate watering. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for ZZ Plant?
The price of ZZ Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–10
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Zamioculcas zamiifolia
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Growing Zamioculcas (ZZ Plants) | Management Guide for Unique Foliage Plants Resilient to Drought
Characteristics and growing guide for Zamioculcas (ZZ Plants), a hardy and easy-to-grow foliage plant. Explains watering, lighting, and propagation methods.
Optimizing Foliage Plant Leaf Shine | Humidity Management to Achieve Gloss and Plant Health
Environmental management techniques to bring out glossy shine on foliage plant leaves. Techniques to achieve healthy and beautiful leaf expression through optimizing light, humidity, and water quality.
Why New Leaves on Foliage Plants Are Smaller — Practical Solutions for Light, Humidity, and Nutrition
We analyze the causes behind stunted growth and smaller new leaves on foliage plants. From light environment and humidity management to fertilization strategy and root health, we explain each factor based on empirical data and introduce methods to restore new leaf size.
Spider Mite and Scale Insect Control: Practical Pest Prevention
Learn to identify spider mites and scale insects on houseplants and recognize damage signs, master practical spider mite control methods, discover effective scale insect elimination techniques, create pest-resistant environments with seasonal management, understand pesticide safety precautions, and discover early detection and prevention strategies.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.