The Zamioculcas, more commonly known as the “ZZ Plant,” is a total superstar in the world of houseplants. Since it’s a succulent, it’s incredibly low-maintenance and isn’t too picky about where you put it. If you’re looking for a plant that’s hard to kill, this is the one for you!
A Low-Maintenance Succulent
The ZZ plant is a succulent, which means it has a built-in “water tank” in its leaves and stems. It can store enough moisture to breeze through long dry spells without breaking a sweat. Succulents are famous for being tough and resilient, and the Zamioculcas is no exception—it’s very forgiving, even if you’re a bit forgetful with the watering can.
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your ZZ Plant
While the ZZ plant isn’t high-maintenance, it does have a few preferences when it comes to its home. For a happy plant, look for a spot that meets these criteria:
- Bright, indirect light is best.
- Avoid harsh, direct sunlight.
- Keep it in a room between 68°F and 77°F (20–25°C).
- Never let the temperature drop below 60°F (16°C).
- Don’t worry if you have a darker corner; it handles shade surprisingly well, too.
Bright Light is Best
Generally speaking, your ZZ plant will grow faster and look healthier in a bright spot rather than a dark one. A window with plenty of light is ideal, just try to avoid south-facing windows where the sun might be a bit too intense.
Avoid Direct Sun
Even though it loves light, you should keep your ZZ plant out of direct, scorching sun. It’s much happier in a shady corner than it is getting sunburned on a windowsill. In lower light, the leaves might turn a deeper, darker green and it’s less likely to produce flowers, but it will still be perfectly healthy.
The Right Temperature for Your ZZ Plant
To keep your plant thriving, aim for a comfortable room temperature between 68°F and 77°F. Just be careful during the winter—it really doesn’t like the cold, so make sure it stays above 60°F at all times.
The Best Soil for Your ZZ Plant
When it comes to potting soil, the ZZ plant is pretty easygoing. Standard commercial potting mix works just fine. If you want to give your plant a little “spa treatment,” try mixing in some compost or horn shavings. This creates a loose, nutrient-rich soil that your plant will absolutely love.
ZZ Plants in Hydroponics
If you want to make things even easier, the ZZ plant is a great candidate for hydroponics (growing in water and clay pebbles). This method cuts down the maintenance even further—perfect for the busy plant parent!
