Types of ZZ Plants: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Ramon Carter June 18, 2023 Post a Comment

If you're a fan of houseplants, you've probably heard of ZZ plants. They're highly popular for their low maintenance requirements and unique appearance. But did you know that there are different types of ZZ plants out there? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the different types of ZZ plants, their characteristics, and how to care for them.

ZZ plants, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, are native to Eastern Africa and were first discovered in Tanzania. They're part of the Araceae family, which also includes other popular houseplants like philodendrons and monsteras. ZZ plants are known for their glossy, dark green leaves that grow on long stems. They're an ideal plant for beginners or those who don't have much time to devote to plant care.

Types of ZZ Plants

1. Zamioculcas zamiifolia

The most common type of ZZ plant is the Zamioculcas zamiifolia. This variety has dark green leaves that are slightly curved and grow on long stems. The leaves can grow up to three feet long, making it an excellent choice for adding height to your indoor garden. Zamioculcas zamiifolia is also known for its ability to tolerate low light conditions, making it perfect for offices or darker rooms in your home.

To care for this type of ZZ plant, keep it in a pot with well-draining soil and water it sparingly. ZZ plants are sensitive to overwatering, so it's important not to let the soil stay wet for too long. You should also avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

2. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven'

If you're looking for a more unique ZZ plant, consider the Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven.' This variety has dark purple-black leaves that add a touch of drama to any room. Like the standard ZZ plant, it's also relatively easy to care for and can tolerate low light conditions.

To care for the 'Raven' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it sparingly. It's also important to keep the plant away from direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to fade.

3. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zenzi'

For those who love miniature plants, the Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zenzi' is a perfect choice. This type of ZZ plant has smaller leaves than the standard variety, making it an excellent option for terrariums or small spaces. It also has a more compact growth habit, which makes it ideal for those who don't have much space.

To care for the 'Zenzi' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it sparingly. It can tolerate low light conditions but will grow best in bright, indirect light.

4. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Dowon'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Dowon' is another unique ZZ plant variety that has variegated leaves. The leaves are a mix of green and yellow, giving it a striking appearance. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.

To care for the 'Dowon' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

5. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro' is another miniature ZZ plant that's perfect for small spaces. It has smaller leaves than the standard variety, but they're still glossy and attractive. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Zamicro' variety, make sure it's planted in a pot with drainage holes and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

6. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Feng Shui'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Feng Shui' is a unique ZZ plant variety that has twisted leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly curled appearance, making it an interesting addition to any indoor garden. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.

To care for the 'Feng Shui' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

7. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Tiger'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Tiger' is a variegated ZZ plant variety that has green and yellow-striped leaves. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Tiger' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

8. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Peacock'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Peacock' is another variegated ZZ plant variety that has green and yellow-striped leaves. However, the stripes on this variety are more irregular, giving it a unique appearance. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Peacock' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

9. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Ripple Jade'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Ripple Jade' is a unique ZZ plant variety that has rippled leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly curled appearance, making it an interesting addition to any indoor garden. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil.

To care for the 'Ripple Jade' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

10. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Bonnie'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Bonnie' is another variegated ZZ plant variety that has green and yellow-striped leaves. However, the stripes on this variety are more regular, giving it a more uniform appearance. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Bonnie' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

11. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zanzibar Gem'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zanzibar Gem' is a rare ZZ plant variety that has smaller leaves than the standard variety. However, it's known for its ability to tolerate low light conditions and neglect, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to houseplants.

To care for the 'Zanzibar Gem' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it sparingly. It can tolerate low light conditions but will grow best in bright, indirect light.

12. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Dwarf Raven'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Dwarf Raven' is a miniature version of the popular 'Raven' variety. It has dark purple-black leaves and a compact growth habit, making it an excellent option for small spaces. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Dwarf Raven' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it sparingly. It's also important to keep the plant away from direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to fade.

13. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro Petite'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro Petite' is another miniature ZZ plant that's perfect for small spaces. It has smaller leaves than the standard variety, but they're still glossy and attractive. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Zamicro Petite' variety, make sure it's planted in a pot with drainage holes and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

14. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamigrand'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamigrand' is a larger version of the standard ZZ plant. It has longer stems and larger leaves, making it an excellent choice for adding height to your indoor garden. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Zamigrand' variety, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and water it sparingly. ZZ plants are sensitive to overwatering, so it's important not to let the soil stay wet for too long. You should also avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

15. Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro Zenzi'

The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zamicro Zenzi' is a miniature ZZ plant that has smaller leaves than the standard variety. However, it's known for its unique growth habit, which includes a twisted stem. This type of ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

To care for the 'Zamicro Zenzi' variety, make sure it's planted in a pot with drainage holes and water it regularly. However, make sure you don't overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.

ZZ plants are an excellent choice for beginners or those who don't have much time to devote to plant care. With so many different types of ZZ plants out there, you're sure to find one that fits your style and needs. Whether you prefer the standard variety or a more unique option like the 'Raven' or 'Feng Shui' varieties, ZZ plants are sure to add a touch of green to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a ZZ plant?

A: A ZZ plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a low-maintenance houseplant that's native to Eastern Africa. It's known for its glossy, dark green leaves that grow on long stems.

Q2. How do I care for a ZZ plant?

A: ZZ plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly. They also prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions.

Q3. Can ZZ plants grow in low light?

A: Yes, ZZ plants can tolerate low light conditions, making them an excellent choice for offices or darker rooms in your home.

Q4. What is the 'Raven' variety of ZZ plant?

A: The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven' is a unique ZZ plant variety that has dark purple-black leaves. It's relatively easy to care for and can tolerate low light conditions.

Q5. What is the 'Zenzi' variety of ZZ plant?

A: The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Zenzi' is a miniature ZZ plant that has smaller leaves than the standard variety. It's an excellent option for terrariums or small spaces.

Q6. What is the 'Dowon' variety of ZZ plant?

A: The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Dowon' is a unique ZZ plant variety that has variegated leaves. The leaves are a mix of green and yellow, giving it a striking appearance.

Q7. How often should I water my ZZ plant?

A: ZZ plants should be watered sparingly, about once every two weeks. It's important not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.

Q8. Can ZZ plants grow in direct sunlight?

A: No, ZZ plants should not be placed in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

Q9. What is the 'Peacock' variety of ZZ plant?

A: The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Peacock' is a variegated ZZ plant variety that has green and yellow-striped leaves. However, the stripes on this variety are more irregular, giving it a unique appearance.

Q10. What is the 'Ripple Jade' variety of ZZ plant?

A: The Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Ripple Jade' is a unique ZZ plant variety that has rippled leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly curled appearance.