THE ZEE ZEE PLANT

​

Botanical Name:  Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

​

Known by several names – the Zee Zee plant, steel plant, zeze plant, zanzibar gem, the aroid palm and “eternity plant” the Zamioculcas plant fits just about every qualification needed for a new indoor plant introduction:

• The ZeeZee plant handles low light

• Easy to grow

• Low water requirements

• Tough under indoor conditions

• Drought tolerant

• Handles neglect well

The ZZ Plant Not New

When many people see the ZeeZee plant for the first time, they assume it looks and resembles a cycad or sago palm plant – Zamia furfuracea or cardboard palm.

However, the ZZ plant is a native of eastern Africa belonging to the family Araceae family, along with the philodendron, Peace plant – Spathiphyllum and aglaonema and been around for decades.

​

The base of the swollen plant stalks (rhizomes) host dark green foliage, naturally glossy leaves. Making it easy to assume someone applied leaf shine to the plant.

​

How Poisonous Is the ZZ Plant?

One area of caution.  Beware of encountering any of the “juices” (the plants fluids).  The calcium oxalate crystals in the ZZ may cause skin irritation.  Many of these crystals found in many other plants.  The most “famous” is the dumb cane Dieffenbachia plant.  Touching the plant without coming in contact with the “juices” should not present any issues.

If you have very sensitive skin follow these safety ZZ Plant Care tips:

• Wear gloves when handling the plant is advisable.

• Keeping dogs, cats, and children away from the Zee Zee plant.

• Wash your hands after working with the plant.

​

Can ZZ Plants Cause Cancer?

The topic of ZZ plants causing cancer was an unfounded rumor started in 2010. Pay no attention to the “hysteria.” [source]

​

Repotting Your Zamioculcas ZZ

ZZ’s can live in a container for a long time without the need for repotting.

• Repot Zamioculcas in spring

• Using a pot one size larger than the current container. Make sure the pot has drainage holes. Example: 4″-inch to 6″-inch

• Use a good quality potting mix like an African Violet soil mix.

• Fill the bottom of the container with potting mix.

• Remove the plant from the old pot.

• Remove bad soft or mushy rhizomes

• Place plant in the new pot on top of the soil at the same depth it was previously growing

• Add soil and fill in the open space in the pot with soil. Do not “pack” soil

• Water plant thoroughly until water drains out the bottom of the container

• Allow any excess water to drain

• Move the plant to its growing location away from direct light.

• Never allow the plant and pot to sit in water.