Zamioculcas zamiifolia – The Effortless Emerald Houseplant

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia, often called the ZZ Plant or Zanzibar Gem, is one of the easiest and most stylish indoor plants you can grow. Known for its glossy, deep-green leaves and sleek, architectural shape, it brings instant elegance to any home or office. This plant is prized not just for its looks but also for its remarkable ability to thrive on neglect — tolerating low light, infrequent watering, and general forgetfulness.

Perfect for beginners or busy households, the ZZ Plant adds a modern touch to interiors while helping purify the air. With its tough, waxy leaves and upright form, Zamioculcas zamiifolia looks as good in a minimalist apartment as it does in a cosy living space or contemporary workspace.

General Information

Native to eastern Africa, from Kenya to South Africa, Zamioculcas zamiifolia has evolved to survive long periods of drought. Its thick stems and rhizomes store water, allowing it to endure low-maintenance conditions with ease.

• Habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial houseplant with glossy, waxy foliage.

• Height & spread: Typically reaches 60–90cm tall and 50–70cm wide when mature.

• Foliage: Deep-green, oval, leathery leaves that grow on firm, fleshy stems.

• Flowers: Occasionally produces small, cream spadix-type blooms, though these are rare indoors.

• Growth rate: Slow to moderate; new shoots appear from the plant’s base throughout the year.

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but will tolerate low-light conditions. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.

• Soil: Well-draining potting mix — ideally cactus or houseplant compost with added grit or perlite.

• Temperature: Prefers 16–24°C; keep away from cold draughts and frost.

• Uses: Excellent as a decorative houseplant for homes, offices, and public spaces.

The ZZ Plant is not only beautiful but also functional — NASA studies have shown it helps improve indoor air quality by removing toxins like xylene and toluene.

Care Guide

Zamioculcas zamiifolia is virtually indestructible, making it ideal for anyone looking for a low-effort, high-impact plant.

Planting & Positioning

• When to plant: Year-round as an indoor plant.

• Containers: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

• Placement: Ideal for shaded corners, hallways, or offices with minimal natural light.

• Rotation: Turn the pot every few weeks to promote even growth on all sides.

Watering & Feeding

• Water sparingly — only when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry.

• Overwatering is the most common mistake; the ZZ prefers to be on the dry side.

• In winter, reduce watering to once every 3–4 weeks.

• Feed monthly during spring and summer with a diluted liquid houseplant fertiliser.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them glossy and dust-free.

• Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain the plant’s tidy shape.

• Repot every 2–3 years in spring to refresh the soil and give roots more space.

• Propagate easily by dividing rhizomes or rooting individual leaf cuttings in water or soil.

Protection

• Keep out of reach of pets and children, as the sap can cause mild irritation if ingested.

• Avoid prolonged exposure to cold or drafts.

• Generally pest-free, though mealybugs or scale may occasionally appear — wipe away gently with a damp cloth.

Why Choose Zamioculcas zamiifolia?

Stylish, resilient, and easy to care for, this plant is the ultimate all-rounder.

• Low-maintenance: Thrives on neglect and minimal watering.

• Air-purifying: Helps improve indoor air quality naturally.

• Versatile: Suits all interior styles — from classic to contemporary.

• Tolerant: Grows happily in low light and dry indoor air.

• Long-lasting beauty: Glossy, sculptural leaves stay lush all year round.

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) is the perfect choice for those who want a touch of greenery without the hassle. Its durability, elegant form, and air-purifying qualities make it an enduring favourite — a plant that truly thrives on simplicity and style.

• Size
  P27

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.