1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, the ZZ plant, is a slow-growing rhizomatous perennial from eastern Africa, reaching two to four feet in both directions. Thick upright petioles carry glossy pinnate leaves two to four feet long, and a swollen underground rhizome stores water, giving it the succulent character behind its reputation for toughness.
It tolerates low light and long neglect better than almost any houseplant, which is why it survives offices — but that same water-storing rhizome means overwatering is what kills it, and the commonest death is kindness. Water only when the compost is fully dry. All parts contain calcium oxalate and cause mouth burning, so keep it away from pets.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern Africa
Toxicity
Toxic; causes mouth burning, and toxic to pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Grow it anywhere from bright indirect light to deep shade.
- Use free-draining compost with added grit.
- Water only when the compost has dried right through.
- Water far less in winter, often only monthly.
- Wipe the glossy leaves occasionally to keep them clean.
- Keep it away from cats, dogs and small children.
Pro Tip
The rhizome stores its own water, so the plant survives being forgotten and dies from being watered on a schedule.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Let the compost dry right through 🌵
- Use it in low-light corners 🌑
- Water sparingly in winter ❄️
- Keep it away from pets 🐈
Don't
- Water on a fixed schedule ❌
- Leave it standing in water ❌
- Let animals chew the leaves ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rest | ||||||||||||
| Water |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
ZZ Plant questions
What zones can ZZ Plant grow in?
ZZ Plant is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is ZZ Plant deer resistant?
Yes — ZZ Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does ZZ Plant bloom?
ZZ Plant typically blooms in rarely flowers indoors through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does ZZ Plant need full sun?
ZZ Plant does best in part shade.
Is ZZ Plant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), ZZ Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Zamioculcas to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow ZZ Plant with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.