In this article, I will talk about everything related to ZZ plant, why it is named like this plant and origin and much more. Caring for these plants are moderate for beginner but for gardeners you may find it easy to do follow all caring aspects of zz plant.
What is the ZZ plant?
ZZ plant or Zamioculcas zamiifolia has been there for centuries, originating in arid Africa (where it thrives outdoors). A few decades ago, Dutch nurseries in South Africa recognized the plant’s propagating potential and began distributing it worldwide in 1996. ZZ plants have since made their way into hearts, homes, and offices worldwide.
| Family | Araceae |
| Type | Perennial Plant |
| Native | South Africa & Kenya |
| Height | 3 to 4 ft. tall |
| Wide | 3 ft. spreads |
| Lifespan | 5-10 years |
| Fertilizer | Balanced plant food 10-10-10, 20-20-20 |
| Toxicity | yes |
| Light requirement | Indirect bright light |
| Water | once in 2-3 weeks |
| Difficulty To Grow | Moderate to easy |
| Soil | Good draining, orchid bark & perlite can be added |
Why is the ZZ plant so popular?
With its broad range of appealing, dark green leaves, the ZZ plant has many advantages for homes and offices. The ZZ plant condones neglect, is drought-resistant, and tolerates low-light conditions without a fuss. Its smooth, waxy leaves perspective sunlight and brightens spaces. ZZ grows slowly to a length and width of two to three feet, making it a plant monster that does not outgrow containers quickly.
The ZZ Plant is an easy-care houseplant. Aside from water and light levels, there was not much to consider; however, fertilizing every six months, or even months during the planting season, will provide additional adequate nutrition. If plant pests appear, treat them with weekly sprinklers of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular plant wipe-downs. When it comes to soil, select a well-draining garden soil and supplement with perlite or lava rocks as needed to increase aeration.
There are multiple benefits of ZZ plant. check that as well.
Why is the ZZ plant poisonous?
One major disadvantage of the ZZ plant is that all parts of the plant are poisonous[1]. There were false rumors in the 2010s that the ZZ plant was so toxic that it caused cancer and was so scary that people had to wear gloves when handling it. What is the truth? It is poisonous but not carcinogenic. To avoid skin irritation, don’t eat it, keep it away from nibbling pets and overly peculiar children, and always wash your hands thoroughly.
Even though ingesting the leaves and sap can be toxic to humans and pets, simply hugging the plant will only cause small problems at best. However, it is critical to thoroughly wash your hands after touching the plant to ensure no residue or sap could irritate the skin, get into your eyes, or unintentionally end up in your mouth.
Some people believe that when trying to handle a ZZ plant, you must wear gloves. While not strictly necessary, it can be beneficial.
How do I care for a ZZ plant indoors?
- ZZ is the standard method for houseplant beginners, engrossed office workers, and brown thumbs because it is easy to care for. The ZZ plant, fortunately, doesn’t need any appropriate type of potting soil: any well-drained planting will do. When watering, apply an equitable liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month.
- Place your ZZ plant in low to vibrant indirect light, and only water when completely dry. You can usually skip a watering or three…and it will still thrive. ZZ is also highly disease and insect-resistant. Prune away any branches that intrude into your space and get in the way. The plant may flower from mid-summer to early autumn, but the flowers are small and unappealing, making ZZ plants primarily foliage plants.
- When caring for a ZZ, it is not necessary to consider humidity levels because they can handle average residential humidity and even slightly dry air. However, if you want to replicate the humidity levels it would experience in its native climate, aim for 40-50 percent humidity. Plants can be grouped to increase moisture or add a humidifier or pebble tray.
How can I propagate a ZZ plant?
ZZ Plants do not require frequent watering because their root system, which glances like little lumpy potatoes under the dirt, retains water. Rhizomes may be visible poking up from the soil at the base of your plant. When you cut your ZZ Plant, it will sprout a new root system and origins. It’s cool, and it’s a successful experiment to do with children because they can see the new growth.
What temperature does a zz plant Prefer?
Zz plants can grow in warm temperature ranges between 60-84 degrees F. Do not put them in highly colder areas as they might freeze and die. I recommend that you avoid places which have below 55 degree F Temperature.
How big does a ZZ Plant get?
ZZ plants are slow grower houseplants that grow over 3-4 feet tall in height and 3 feet wide. The growth rate is low, that’s why it takes almost 5 to 6 years to reach that height. By Fertilizer every year and environmental conditions makes some plants grow faster & its growth rate may increase as they reach 6-7 inches per year which is good for plants like zz.
Conclusion
If we have a look over all the detailed information of the ZZ plant which we have written above it is quite clear that the ZZ plant is an easy care houseplant. There are not too many things to consider while having a ZZ plant in your house. Instead of all those qualities ZZ plant is poisonous but not carcinogenic. To avoid skin irritation, don’t eat it.
Want to know the meaning and symbolism of ZZ plant. Check out.
Table of Contents
