The Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant, is a highly sought-after houseplant due to its extreme durability and low-maintenance needs. Its resistance to neglect has earned it nicknames such as the “eternity plant” and “Zanzibar gem,” making it popular among both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. This tropical perennial is prized for its thick, glossy, dark green leaves that grow on upright, arching stems, offering a sleek, architectural presence. The ZZ plant thrives in low-light conditions and tolerates long periods of drought, solidifying its reputation as an undemanding addition to home or office decor.
Local Retailers and Big Box Stores
Visiting physical retail locations is the most immediate path to owning a ZZ plant, offering instant gratification and the chance to personally inspect the specimen. Large chain stores like Lowe’s and Walmart consistently stock the standard green variety of Zamioculcas zamiifolia in their garden centers. These big box stores generally provide plants in standardized sizes, typically in four- to ten-inch grower pots, and their pricing is often competitive.
Local nurseries and independent garden centers also carry ZZ plants, often providing more knowledgeable staff. While the price point may be slightly higher, they sometimes offer better-established specimens or less common varieties, such as the deep purple-black ‘Raven’ ZZ plant. Grocery stores and florists are other convenient options, frequently featuring smaller, desktop-sized ZZ plants. The primary benefit of an in-person purchase is the ability to thoroughly examine the plant’s health before the sale, avoiding shipping stress.
Specialized Online Nurseries and Marketplaces
Online nurseries and marketplaces provide an expansive selection for individuals seeking greater variety or specific cultivars. Dedicated online plant shops, such as Bloomscape and The Sill, regularly feature the standard ZZ plant and occasionally offer larger, mature specimens difficult to find locally. These specialized retailers often use sophisticated packaging, including heat packs during colder months, to mitigate shipping damage.
E-commerce platforms like Amazon and Etsy function as marketplaces where smaller growers offer a diverse range of ZZ plants, including the highly sought-after ‘Raven’ variety. When purchasing from these sites, carefully reviewing seller ratings and customer feedback is important, as quality can vary significantly between vendors. Online purchases require patience, as shipping times vary, and the plant may show temporary signs of stress upon arrival. The major advantage of online sourcing is access to rare variants and direct delivery.
Assessing Plant Health Before Purchase
A careful inspection of the ZZ plant is necessary to ensure its long-term health, regardless of the purchasing source. Begin by examining the foliage for any signs of disease or pests, looking for discolored spots, sticky residue, or tiny insects on the underside of the waxy leaves. A healthy ZZ plant will have firm, shiny, dark green leaves, though new growth may appear a brighter, lighter green before maturing.
The condition of the soil offers clues about the plant’s recent care; it should be mostly dry to the touch, not soggy or waterlogged. Overwatering is a common issue; excessively moist soil can lead to soft stems or yellowing leaves, indicating root rot in the underground rhizomes. If purchasing in person, gently check the drainage holes for visible roots and ensure the plant is not severely root-bound. For online orders, review the vendor’s return policy and request clear photos of the exact plant you will receive.