How to care for ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia · Araceae
Possibly the most neglect-proof houseplant available: glossy, dark, almost plastic-looking leaflets rise from thick underground rhizomes that store water for weeks. It shrugs off low light, dry air, and long gaps between waterings. The only real rule is to never let those water-storing rhizomes sit wet. Water roughly every 14 days while it's growing (about every 28 in winter), give it low light, kept above 55°F (13°C) — dry air is fine for it.
Care at a glance
Water only when the soil is fully dry — the rhizomes store weeks of reserve, so when in doubt, wait.
Tolerates genuinely low light better than nearly anything, though it grows faster and fuller in medium to bright indirect light.
Very light feeder — balanced fertilizer at half strength every couple of months in the growing season.
Mistakes that kill this plant
- Watering it like a normal tropical — soggy soil is virtually the only way to kill a ZZ.
- Potting into a container without drainage.
- Panic-watering a slow winter plant that is simply resting.
Seasonal tips
- In winter, watering once a month is usually plenty.
- Dust the glossy leaflets so they can use what light they get.
- If you see a fat new spear in spring, resume normal watering and light feeding.
Is it safe for pets?
We have ZZ Plant recorded as toxic to cats and dogs.
Full pet-safety details for cats & dogsCare for your ZZ Plant on autopilot
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Toxicity here is informational, not a safety guarantee. Those are our own records, compiled by following the ASPCA's published toxic and non-toxic plant lists and Pet Poison Helpline's plant poison list rather than copied from them — confirm anything that matters against those lists or with your vet. If your pet ingested this plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.