ZZ plant care guide
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Quick answer
Water your ZZ plant when the soil has dried out completely. In summer, check the mix about every three weeks, and in winter about every six weeks.
- WateringWhen the soil has dried out completely
- LightLow light tolerant
- Climate18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
- Pet safetyToxic to cats and dogs
How to water ZZ plant
When the soil has dried out completely
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement for ZZ plant
Low light tolerant
ZZ plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Feeding ZZ plant
Feed your ZZ plant every 120 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
Humidity30–60%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–29 °C (64–84 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 30–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
ZZ 'Raven'
ZZ 'Raven' is a form of this plant with near-black leaves. Care is the same, but it grows more slowly, so expect fewer new shoots and repot it less often.
Common ZZ plant problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Is ZZ plant toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses NC State Extension Plant Toolbox where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full ZZ plant toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water a ZZ plant?
Water your ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) when the soil has dried out completely. In summer, check the mix about every three weeks, and in winter about every six weeks.
How much light does a ZZ plant need?
ZZ plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it 1–2 meters back from an east or west window, or behind a sheer curtain on a south window.
Is ZZ plant safe for cats and dogs?
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep ZZ plant out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like parlor palm or cast-iron plant.
Why is my ZZ plant turning yellow or drooping?
Yellowing, drooping and brown tips can have several causes. Check the potting mix before adding water and follow this plant’s watering and rest instructions. If the mix is still wet, do not add more water. Check drainage and roots, then light, humidity, water quality and pests. Faded color or webbing alone does not show that the roots need water.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · classification
- University of Florida IFAS ExtensionLight · potting soil · watering · fertilizer · temperature · root rot
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxLight · seasonal water · fertilizer · direct-sun browning · root rot
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlZZ plant listed as Zamioculcas spp. · not species-exact for Zamioculcas zamiifolia
- How we check our plant advice
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