Every month, ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) generate new branches that grow up to 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in length. Depending on whether they are cultivated in perfect conditions, they can reach a height of up to 5 feet. In a single growth season, they can produce 6-8 new stems. ZZ plants grow rapidly in the early spring and into the summer, but then slow down as the year goes, eventually ceasing to grow entirely in the winter.
If your ZZ plant is producing new shoots, it’s a good sign that it’s satisfied with the present care it’s receiving, so if you haven’t seen any growth in a while, double-check that it’s getting what it needs.
The subterranean rhizome, which is a modified stem that develops beneath the earth, is where ZZ plants get their start. From this rhizome, new stems and roots grow upward and downward, and the rhizome expands slowly over time.
Even a plant that is completely rootbound can squeeze new stems up from between the existing foliage because new stems grow very close together.
How can I make my ZZ plant grow faster?
ZZ plants are excellent indoor plants since they tolerate low light levels yet grow more quickly in bright indirect light. They also do well under fluorescent lighting, making them a popular choice for office plants. Avoid planting ZZ plants in direct sunlight to avoid burned leaves.
How long does ZZ plant take to grow?
This species takes several years to reach its peak height of 2 to 4 feet, although very healthy ZZ plants can grow up to 6 inches per month throughout the spring and summer.
How big do ZZ plants grow?
With glossy greenleaflets placed along erect stems, the ZZ plant has a strong, tropical appearance. Its Latin name comes from its resemblance to numerous cycads (Zamia spp). (Zamioculcas zamiifolia). The Latin name is abbreviated as the common name.
ZZ plant, on the other hand, is classified as an aroid and is closely related to elephant ear, anthurium, and philodendron. It possesses rhizomatous roots, like other aroids, that allow it to store water. This characteristic aids its survival in its native environments in eastern Africa, where it is subjected to recurrent drought-like circumstances.
The rate of growth of the plant is determined by the amount of light and water it receives. It is a slow grower in indoor environments, but can eventually reach three to four feet tall and three feet broad.
Exposure
Here’s one category where the ZZ Plant truly reigns supreme. It does well in low-light environments. Your plant will develop much more slowly, but it will persevere like a true trooper.
The ZZ enjoys bright, natural light, which mine does, which is why I had to transplant itit was growing! Mine is spending the summer and early fall in Tucson, although it is in the shade. This houseplant should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
Watering
When it comes to watering the ZZ Plant, simple is best. They spread and expand by swelling rhizomes, which are underground organs that store nutrients and water. These rhizomes produce a large number of thick, fleshy roots, which, along with the spongy stems, will rot if watered too regularly.
You should water it completely, then drain all of the water and allow it to dry before watering it again. I water mine every 3-4 weeks in the desert, and when I move it inside for the winter, it’ll probably be every 8 weeks. The smaller the pot, the more frequently you’ll have to water the plant. A word of caution: do not immerse this plant in water.
Fertilizing
Although it isn’t always necessary, your ZZ Plant would benefit from a spring feeding with an organic houseplant fertilizer. When the roots are really starting to wake up in late March or early April, I top treat them with worm compost.
How long do ZZ plants live?
The leaves make up 91% of this plant, and each leaf may persist up to 6 months in terrible conditions, which is why the ZZ plant can survive for up to 4 months without water in low light.
Because this plant is still relatively new to home plant owners, it is commonly seen to live for 5-10 years, however it is suspected to live much longer.
Because these plants prefer to dry out between waterings, they only need to be watered once every 1-2 weeks.
It also requires little to no maintenance, but fertilizer may be beneficial from time to time.
Do ZZ plants purify air?
The ZZ plant is also an air cleaner, and researchers discovered in a NASA study that it is particularly good at eliminating contaminants like xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air.
Is ZZ plant a slow grower?
If you truly want to kill your ZZ plant, you’ll have to give it your all! To put it another way, it’s extremely long-lasting. Even though a ZZ plant can withstand a lot of neglect, if you want it to thrive, it’s best to give it regular care. Continue reading to learn how.
Light: Although ZZ plants like bright, indirect light, they may thrive in low-light environments. Even bright, fluorescent light can help these plants thrive. One of the main reasons they are a popular choice for indoor rooms with no windows is because of this. One thing to keep in mind is that ZZ plants dislike being in direct sunlight. Sunburned or dried-out leaves can result from too much direct sunlight. If this happens, you should move your plant to a shadier spot until the leaves return to their original green color.
Allow the soil to dry out in between waterings. Allowing your plant to sit in water can quickly lead to stem and rhizome rot. Your plant may go months without water, but it will grow more quickly if you water it more frequently. Because root rot is more likely to kill your ZZ plant than water deprivation, it’s always better to underwater rather than overwater.
Temperatures: The ZZ plant loves temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers humid settings, but can survive in less humid environments unless the air is too dry. You can sprinkle its leaves with water to battle the dry air in that situation. If your plant is near an air conditioning vent and/or the temperature goes below 45°F, it may experience stunted development.
Toxicity: Because this plant includes calcium oxalate crystals, it should be handled with caution. This can cause irritation to the skin as well as more significant problems such as stomach ache. Because of the oxalate crystals, the plant is highly dangerous to cats and dogs, so keep it out of their reach. If you keep Zamioculcas zamiifolia out of reach of curious pets and youngsters, they are still safe to have in your house. To avoid contact with the plant, you should wash your hands immediately after tending to it or wear gloves. More information on poisonous plants can be found in our poisonous plant guide.
Aphids, such as the “sap” from ZZ plants, are pests. If you detect strange yellow stains or patches on your plant, you may have an aphid infestation. Aphids can readily blend in with leaves, so you’ll have to examine closely (especially since they like to hide under leaves). Most bugs can be removed off leaves by wiping them with a moderate soap and hot water solution.
Overwatering is the most prevalent cause of mortality for ZZ plants, as previously stated. Before watering it, make sure the first three inches of soil are completely dry. If the plant’s leaves begin to drop, you know it’s seriously underwatered. If your ZZ plant’s leaves are turning yellow and dropping off, you may be overwatering it.
This plant takes a long time to mature. It could take several years for your plant to reach a height of a few feet. Giving your ZZ plant adequate light, water, and temperature conditions is the best method to aid its growth. If you’re not sure how to aid your ZZ plant while it’s struggling, check out our guide to reviving a plant.
Now that you’ve learned how to care for a ZZ plant, make sure you know what to do when it begins to thrive!
Fertilizing: Use a diluted liquid fertilizer like 20-20-20 to fertilize your plant once or twice in the spring and summer months.
Pruning: ZZ plants do not need to be pruned heavily. Throughout the year, remove yellow leaves and trim back any excessive stems. Remember to put on your gloves!
Repotting: Unless your plant has outgrown its existing home, you don’t need to repot it. The optimum time to repotte ZZ plants is in the spring. Select a pot that is one size larger and has adequate drainage. Take the ZZ plant out of its original pot. As needed, clean up and trim the roots. Replant in a new pot using potting soil that drains nicely. Continually add water until the bottom drains.
Sticking a mature stem in water and waiting for roots to sprout is one way to propagate the ZZ plant. The second procedure involves splitting the plant into two or three smaller plants. However, because ZZ plant rhizomes are known to grow slowly, this should not be done too frequently.
The ZZ plant is a virtually indestructible plant that may be used in any space of your house or workplace. It’s simple to care for Zamioculcas zamiifolia as long as you remember to keep it out of direct sunlight and to let the soil dry between waterings. If you have children or dogs, place it on a high shelf and out of reach to guarantee everyone’s safety.
What are the benefits of ZZ plant?
Do you want to be healthier, happier, and perhaps even smarter? All you need to do now is add some plants!
With Americans spending over 90% of their time indoors, it’s more critical than ever to keep indoor air clean and fresh. Because of today’s advanced building construction methods, the average air exchange rate has decreased dramatically, making this time spent indoors potentially dangerous. The combination of reduced ventilation and the brew of harmful air pollutants is not ideal, but indoor plants are an excellent solution to this problem.
Plants in the home and office have been shown to provide a variety of benefits, including making you happier and healthier. According to a 2015 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, cognitive function scores are considerably enhanced in buildings with lower-than-average air pollution. Plants may purify the air by absorbing harmful poisons and chemicals in the air and creating oxygen. Plants in the home have also been shown to:
If you want to increase the quality of your indoor air, these are the top three indoor plants to buy:
- Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus (Dypsis) lutescnes) – The areca palm, also known as Chrysalidocarpus (Dypsis) lutescnes, grows well in interior situations with direct light. It’s a favored indoor plant because of its capacity to eliminate airborne pollutants by transpiring rapidly.
- Sansevieria trifasciata, often known as Mother-in-Tongue, Law’s is a popular indoor plant that is frequently seen in interior plantscapes. They are nearly indestructible and can retain their vivid variegation in low-light conditions. Formaldehyde, Toluene, and Xylene are all removed from the air by Mother-In-tongue. Law’s
- The Zamioculcas zamiifolia is one of the most hardy indoor plants available. They are able to survive in both low and high light environments. Toluene and Xylene are removed from indoor air by the ZZ plant.
Where should I place my ZZ plant at home?
Indirect light from a north-, east-, or west-facing window can range from dim to bright. Direct sunshine, which can scorch the foliage, should be avoided. There aren’t any windows? It’s no problem. Under fluorescent lights, the ZZ plant thrives.
Temperature:
Grow at room temperatures of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit indoors. If you leave your plant outside during the summer, make sure to bring it inside when the temperature drops below 50 degrees F.
Humidity:
Humidity levels in the home should be OK, but keep your plant away from air conditioning and heating vents, which can dry out the air and cause browning of the leaves.
Watering:
Overwatering is one of the few methods to destroy a ZZ plant. Only water once every two weeks or when the top inch or two of soil feels dry during the busy growing season (spring through early fall). If you’re growing your plant in low-light situations or throughout the winter, water less frequently.
Fertilizing:
Because ZZ plants can store nutrients in their roots, they don’t require fertilizing as frequently as other plants. During the spring and summer, feed every month or so with an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the recommended dose. In the winter, don’t fertilize.
Is ZZ plant good for bedroom?
This beautiful plant, with its gleaming leaves and robust, upright structure, is a must-have for your nightstand or vacant floor area. What’s better? Zamioculas Zamiifolia, sometimes known as the ZZ Plant, can withstand extremely low light levels and sporadic watering. Water only when the top several inches of soil feel dry to maintain it healthy.