How to Grow ZZ Plant

ZZ plant is a beautiful leafy plant with interesting thick, glossy green leaves. While the ZZ plant can be grown outdoors, it makes a fantastic almost un-killable indoor plant. It's been described as the ultimate indoor plant because of its tolerance to low light and lack of water. In the wild it survives drought periods by disappearing almost completely and then re-sprouting from its underground, potato-like tubers when the rains eventually come. So, in the unlikely event that your ZZ plant appears to have died, a good drink just might encourage it to start developing new shoots.

Grow indoors away from direct sunlight or outdoors in a dry shady spot.

Water occasionally, allowing the plant to dry out well between waterings.

Well-drained soil or potting mix.

Warm, frost free areas or grow indoors.

How to Grow a ZZ Plant in a Pot

Step 1

Zz plant will grow very happily in quite small pots (from 200mm in diameter). The plant will also tolerate a more dimly lit position.

Step 2

Fill chosen pots with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Plant into pot and water in well. Feed zz plant occasionally during the growing season (spring to autumn) with Yates Thrive All Purpose Liquid Plant Food.

Step 4

Water when the potting mix is dry - insert your index finger to the first knuckle, if it's dry, water and if it's moist leave watering for a few more days.

ZZ Plant Growing Tips

Keep the leaves clean by wiping with a damp cloth.
When a plant becomes crowded in the pot it can be split and divided. Gently remove from pot and loosen soil to reveal roots. You'll see they're divided into clumps, which can be easily seperated into sections using a sharp knife.
The sap of zz plant is toxic and, if ingested, could make you unwell so, after dividing the plant, make sure you wash hands well with soap and water.

Why Are the Leaves of My ZZ Plant Yellow?

The new growth tends to be a lighter colour than the old growth, but will darken as it matures.

If the tips of the leaves are growing brown and the leaf is yellowing from the tip down, then this is a sig of overwatering. ZZ plants only need watering once a month in the warmer months, and once every 2-3 months in the cooler months.

If most of the leaves are going yellow, and you are not fertilising, then it may also need a good feed.