Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Zamioculcas zamiifolia, more commonly known as Zanzibar gems, are a tropical perennial succulent native to eastern parts of Africa.  Glossy, deep-green, oval-shaped leaves grow in opposite pairs along the thick tapering stems, combining the tidy aesthetic of a succulent with beautiful foliage.  The leaves of a Zanzibar gem are so fleshy and waxy that they are commonly mistaken for fake plants, and they can reflect sunlight to brighten rooms.  Zanzibar gems grow from a bulbous rhizome buried beneath the soil that is shaped like a potato.  When the plant has matured, it may produce a white flower spike sheathed by a green spadix.  Zanzibar gem plants have air purifying qualities and are capable of removing volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene.  Zanzibar gems are an excellent choice for new plant parents as they are very low-maintenance and highly drought tolerant.  

Promote healthy foliage and robust growth by providing Zanzibar gems with bright, diffused sunlight for at least six hours a day.  Do not place the plant in a location that receives direct sunlight, as this can cause leaf scorching.  Plant Zanzibar gems in any well-draining soil; a standard potting mix should be adequate if they are grown indoors.  Being highly drought resistant, Zanzibar gems are very easy to overwater. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings, which takes approximately two weeks.  When planted in a pot, ensure all excess water is drained from the bottom and discarded; Zanzibar gems cannot tolerate wet feet.  Fertilizing is not necessary for healthy growth, but a diluted indoor fertilizer at half concentration may be applied 1-2 times during the active growth season.  Propagating through the separation of its rhizome bulbs is ideal, as each bulb can be replanted into a new container when repotting.  

Learn more in the Plant Story community!

Water sparingly, allowing the mix to nearly dry out between watering.

Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Gallery

Share With Your Friends

How to Grow

Characteristics

Benefits

Ornamental

Attracts

Warning

More Info

Taxonomy