ZZ plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called zamioculcas, zanzibar gem · Zamioculcas zamiifolia · Araceae family
28 d in winter
How often to water the ZZ plant?
Allow about 14 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 28 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Its fleshy roots store water: only water when the soil is dry all the way down.
What light does it need?
The ZZ plant is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from May to August, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–3 ft (60 cm–1 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Yellow leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let it dry out completely and water less often.
Leaning stems
Cause: Too little light. What to do: Give it a bit more indirect light.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the ZZ plant?
About every 2 weeks in spring and summer, and every 4 weeks in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the ZZ plant?
The ZZ plant is happy in a dim room, away from windows or facing north. It grows more slowly there, but copes well; above all, avoid direct sun, which scorches the leaves.
Should you mist the ZZ plant?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the ZZ plant?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the ZZ plant safe?
The ZZ plant is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the ZZ plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.