The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a highly favored houseplant. Its low-maintenance nature makes it an excellent choice for both experienced plant enthusiasts and beginners. This tropical perennial, native to Eastern Africa, is recognized for its thick, glossy, dark green leaves and robust, bulbous stalks. The plant tolerates a wide range of conditions, including lower light and infrequent watering, contributing to its resilience in indoor environments.
Buying a ZZ Plant from IKEA
When selecting a ZZ plant from IKEA, inspect its health. Look for firm stems and vibrant green leaves, avoiding any signs of yellowing or browning, which indicate stress or overwatering. Check for visible pests on the foliage or stems. IKEA plants typically come in basic nursery pots; ensure the pot has drainage holes. Assess the soil condition; it should be damp but not overly wet, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. A healthy plant ensures a smooth transition to its new home.
Caring for Your ZZ Plant
Light Needs
ZZ plants are adaptable, tolerating various light conditions from low to bright indirect light. They perform well in locations with filtered light, such as near a north or east-facing window. While they survive in low-light, moderate to bright indirect light promotes more vigorous growth and vibrant appearance. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, as it can scorch leaves and cause discoloration. They can also thrive under fluorescent lighting if natural light is limited.
Watering Practices
The ZZ plant stores water in its thick rhizomes and fleshy stems, making it highly drought-tolerant. Overwatering is the most common issue, leading to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Watering frequency depends on environmental conditions like temperature, humidity, and light exposure. Watering may be needed every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), and less frequently in winter. To check, insert a finger about an inch or two into the soil; if it feels dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard excess water.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix is essential for ZZ plants to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A succulent or cactus mix works well, or a standard indoor potting mix can be amended with perlite, pumice, or orchid bark for improved drainage. This soil allows for good aeration, beneficial for the plant’s water-storing rhizomes. ZZ plants do not require frequent repotting due to their slow growth rate and preference for being somewhat root-bound. If repotting, choose a pot only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
ZZ plants prefer average indoor temperatures, typically ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 30°C). They are not tolerant of cold temperatures and can suffer damage below 45°F (7°C). Maintain a consistent temperature by avoiding placement near drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or heating sources. Average household humidity levels are adequate; ZZ plants tolerate dry air.
Fertilizing
ZZ plants are not heavy feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. If desired, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half-strength during the active growing season (spring and summer). Fertilizing once every two to three months during this period is sufficient. Reduce or cease fertilization entirely during fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so a conservative approach is best.
Common ZZ Plant Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves are a frequent issue, almost always signaling overwatering. If leaves turn yellow and feel mushy, or the soil remains wet, root rot is likely. To remedy, allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Consider repotting into fresh, dry, well-draining soil after inspecting and removing any soft, rotted roots. Severely underwatered ZZ plants can also yellow, showing wrinkled stems and droopiness, resolved by thorough watering.
Droopy stems often indicate overwatering or insufficient light. If stems are soft and mushy, overwatering leading to root rot is the probable cause. If the soil is dry and the plant appears thirsty, underwatering could be the reason. If a ZZ plant lacks enough light, its stems may stretch and lean towards a light source, appearing leggy and droopy. Adjusting watering practices and relocating the plant to a brighter, indirect light spot can resolve these issues.
Brown leaf tips can stem from several factors. Extremely dry air can sometimes cause crispy brown tips, though this is less common for ZZ plants that tolerate average humidity. More frequently, soft or mushy brown tips point to overwatering, similar to yellowing leaves. Conversely, dry and crispy tips signal underwatering.
Tap water quality, specifically the buildup of salts, chlorine, or fluoride, can also contribute to brown leaf edges over time. Using filtered water or allowing tap water to sit overnight can mitigate this.