The “ZZ Plant”, “Zanzibar Gem”, or "Zamioculcas Zamifolia", is one of our favourites here at Plant Store.
...and we have a feeling we are not alone!
This perennial tropical plant is a native to drought-prone Africa but, in the past decade, has won over hearts, homes and workspaces worldwide for its beauty and easy-care nature.
This beautiful specimen displays small glossy leaves on stems that can grow up to 3ft long indoors. The entire plant has a waxy, shiny coating that makes it appear to resemble those made of plastic. In fact, between its sculptural qualities and its waxy coating, it is not uncommon for people to insist that it must be an artificial plant!
Care of ZZ is simple, making it the gold standard for houseplant beginners, preoccupied office workers, and brown thumbs.
ZZ plants aren’t just easy on the eye and effort; they can also act as a pretty effective air purifier. During a study conducted by NASA, researchers found it is specifically adept at removing copious amounts of toxins such as xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air.
How to care for your ZZ Plant
Pretty and impossible to kill, the ZZ plant is practically tailor-made for those with zero knowledge of growing plants. It's a tough cookie, requires little maintenance and will survive a certain amount of neglect.
With this in mind, there are a few things we recommend to keep your ZZ happy, healthy and thriving.
Light- ZZ’s thrive in medium to low indirect sunlight. We recommend semi-shade in the summer and brighter spots in the winter. Avoid exposing your ZZ to direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves.
Water- One of the easiest and most common mistakes made with ZZ care is overwatering. When it comes to ZZ’s, less water is always more. Water only once the top few inches of soil become dry to touch (approximately every 2-3 weeks), and expect to water a little more in brighter light. ZZ’s cannot tolerate standing in water, so make sure to use well-draining soil and planters. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves.
Temperature-. Don’t sweat it! ZZ plants can tolerate dry air. Average home humidity levels and temperatures between 18-22ºC make for the perfect environment for your ZZ plant.
Feed- ZZ Plants do not require fertiliser for healthy growth; however, if you’d like to give them a little boost, we recommend applying fertiliser 2-3 times per year; once per month in the summer and every 2-3 months in the Winter.
Cleaning- Avoid cleaning the leaves of your ZZ plant with a commercial leaf shine as it will clog its pores. Instead, we recommend gently wiping away dust and debris with a damp washcloth to restore its natural shine.
Where to place your ZZ Plant at home?
The ZZ Plant will be a welcome addition to any home or workspace, creating a relaxing, tropical atmosphere. Its waxy, smooth leaves reflect sunlight and brighten any rooms. This plant makes an ideal plant for a windowless office or bathroom where it will only receive small amounts of fluorescent light.
Stuck on ideas on how to showcase your ZZ Plant? Here is a mood board we’ve put together for your inspiration:
Wherever you decide to place your ZZ Plant, remember to keep it away from direct sunlight and areas that experience sharp temperature changes.
Where to buy ZZ plants online?
Looking to add a ZZ Plant to your growing indoor plant family? Shop your very own for just €28 here. You won’t regret it!
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