ZZ Plant at a glance
| Botanical name | Zamioculcas zamiifolia |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Other names | ZZ, Zamioculcas, Zanzibar gem |
| Plant type | Houseplant; evergreen perennial (houseplant) |
| Size | 2 to 4 feet tall and wide |
| Light | Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun); Shade (under 2 hours of direct sun) |
| Water | Water only when the soil is fully dry; the rhizomes store water. |
| Soil | Fast-draining potting mix. |
| USDA hardiness zones | Outdoors in zones 9 and 10; elsewhere a houseplant. |
| USDA PLANTS symbol | Not listed (not grown wild in the US) |
When to plant zz plant
Repot in spring when rhizomes crowd the pot.
How to grow zz plant
- Place in low to bright indirect light.
- Water only when the soil is dry all the way through.
- Keep it away from cold drafts.
- Wipe the leaves to keep them glossy.
- Divide the rhizomes in spring to make new plants.
Water and soil
Water: Water only when the soil is fully dry; the rhizomes store water.
Soil: Fast-draining potting mix.
Light: Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun); Shade (under 2 hours of direct sun).
Common problems
- Yellow leaves
- Usually overwatering. Let the soil dry fully.
- Leaning stems
- Stems reach for light. Rotate the pot or move it closer to a window.
Is zz plant safe for cats and dogs?
Not listed
Not listed
ZZ Plant is not on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant lists for cats and dogs.
NC State Extension rates its poison severity for people and animals as medium.
If a pet chews a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; a fee may apply). For people, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Can you eat zz plant?
Not edible.
ZZ Plant questions
Is ZZ plant toxic to cats and dogs?
ZZ plant is not on the ASPCA's lists, but NC State lists it as poisonous, with vomiting and diarrhea if leaves are eaten. Keep it out of reach of pets.
How often should I water a ZZ plant?
Only when the soil is completely dry, often every 2 to 4 weeks.
Can ZZ plant live in a room with no windows?
It tolerates low light, but it still needs some light to grow; office lights for many hours a day can be enough.
Sources
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Zamioculcas zamiifolia (size, light, soil, zones, poison rating)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to cats
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
