Plant care library / ZZ Plant

How to Care for ZZ Plant

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About ZZ Plant

Centuries old, the much-loved tropical ZZ Plant, also known as the Zanzibar Gem, grows naturally in the dry soils of East Africa, making this striking evergreen incredibly resilient. The ZZ Plant grows slowly and steadily, reaching up to 90 cm tall. It thrives in almost any condition, making it a favourite for every plant collection -perfect for those still finding their green fingers!


Other common names

  • Aroid Palm
  • Emerald Palm
  • Eternity Plant
  • Zanzibar Gem
  • Zuzu Plant

How Often Should I Water My ZZ Plant?

With easyplant’s self-watering system, caring for your ZZ Plant is effortless. Simply check the easyplant reservoir every two months and top it up when it’s empty!

Water every 2 Months

ZZ Plant Light Needs

The ZZ Plant grows best in a well-lit space with medium to bright light but can also adapt to low-light conditions or rooms without natural light.

Light requirement abcd

ZZ Plant Plant Care

ZZ Plants are incredibly low-maintenance and difficult to kill, making them perfect for beginners. To help it grow evenly, occasionally dust the leaves and rotate the pot by a quarter turn once a month.

How Big Does a ZZ Plant Grow?

The ZZ Plant grows slowly and steadily, reaching between 30 cm and 90 cm in height. Given enough light and the right conditions, new stems will emerge in spring and summer before the plant reaches maturity in three to five years. During autumn and winter, or in lower-light conditions, growth slows significantly as the plant enters a dormant phase.

Temperature & Humidity

The ZZ Plant thrives in typical indoor temperatures, ideally between 16°C and 24°C. As a tropical plant, it prefers moderate humidity levels of around 50%. Very high humidity can slow its growth, while excessively dry air may cause leaf edges to crisp.

Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Pets & Children?

ZZ Plants are mildly toxic if ingested, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets and children. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild irritation if touched and minor stomach discomfort if consumed. Contact with the skin may cause a slight rash, while getting sap in the eyes may result in temporary irritation similar to shampoo. Ingesting them may cause mild discomfort or vomiting.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with ZZ Plant

If a stem becomes weak or droopy, remove it completely by cutting at the base and moving the pot to a brighter location. If the stems are growing too long, trim them to your preferred shape and place the pot in a slightly darker spot. If the leaves begin to curl, try moving the plant to a less brightly lit area.

Frequently Asked Questions about ZZ Plant Plant

  • What are the benefits of a ZZ Plant?
    Open What are the benefits of a ZZ Plant?

    ZZ Plants are valued for their lush, glossy foliage that stays vibrant all year round, adding a fresh and lively touch to any space. They are also excellent air purifiers, helping to remove small amounts of indoor pollutants.


  • How long can a ZZ plant live?
    Open How long can a ZZ plant live?

    A ZZ Plant is a long-lived evergreen shrub that, with proper care, can survive for decades - a surprisingly long life span! It typically reaches maturity within three to five years. The most common cause of decline isn’t neglect but overwatering.


  • Is a ZZ plant easy to care for?
    Open Is a ZZ plant easy to care for?

    Absolutely! ZZ Plants are drought-tolerant, adaptable to various lighting conditions, and not fussy about soil. While occasional feeding can encourage growth, they don’t require frequent fertilisation. Thanks to their resilience, they’re one of the easiest houseplants to care for.