ZZ Plant – Medium

ZZ Plant Care

ZZ plants are known for being low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for houseplants that even gardeners with the blackest thumbs can keep alive with minimum care. All zz plants need is adequate light and a good watering every couple of weeks. However, don't worry too much about forgetting to water your zz plant—these plants grow from rhizomes, which help them to store water under the soil, making them drought-tolerant plants.

Though it thrives outdoors in Africa, it's best grown indoors elsewhere. If you want to grow it outside, plant it in a container that can be brought indoors when the temperatures cool.

ZZ plants have naturally shiny leaves that can become dull as dust accumulates. Never clean the leaves of a Zanzibar gem with a commercial leaf shine, as it will clog the plant's pores. Instead, gently wipe away dust and debris with a damp washcloth to restore its shine.

Light

ZZ plants are tolerant of a wide range of lighting conditions, which makes them well-suited to indoor growing. The plants can grow in low-light conditions. They can quickly become leggy if not given enough light. When placing the plant in your house, choose a bright, indirect light spot, preferably in a room with south-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves of your plants.

Soil

ZZ plants are not overly picky about their potting medium as long as it is well-draining. Most standard potting mixes should be sufficient for your plant. If additional drainage is required, mixing in perlite or sand will help.

Water

These plants are highly drought-tolerant and can handle infrequent watering thanks to their thick rhizomes. You should generally water zz plants once the soil dries out completely—usually once every two weeks, depending on their growing conditions. It's better to water your plant less than give it too much water. When watering, wet the soil thoroughly until the water is running out of the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Get rid of the excess water.