Are you a plant lover looking for the best indoor plants for your office or home? The Zanzibar Gem (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), also known as the eternity plant, is an excellent choice.
This versatile plant is loved for its many benefits, including indoor air purification, decorative purposes, low maintenance (perfect for beginners), stress reduction, and even as a thoughtful gift for your loved ones.
The Zanzibar Gem can be used as an indoor and outdoor plant, depending on the space and environment. Indoors, it is ideal for homes and offices, while outdoors, it requires warm temperatures (above 15°C or 59°F) to grow well.
Although it’s a beautiful and resilient plant, it’s important to note that all parts of the Zanzibar Gem are toxic if ingested. Keep it away from pets and small children.
In this article, I will guide you through the benefits of the ZZ plant, where to place it, easy care tips, how to propagate it, and solutions to common problems with Zanzibar Gem plants.
What is the Zanzibar Gem Plant?
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as Zanzibar Gem Plant, is a tropical plant from East Africa. It has gained popularity with its ability to survive in almost any condition. It is termed the “Eternity Plant” because of that.
The plant features long, oval deep green leaves attached to upright stalks. Besides their elegance, these leaves give off a reflectivity that makes for a lively and vibrant indoor feel.
It can tolerate drought quite remarkably. Its thick, potato-like rhizomes store water, so that it can endure long periods without water.
The Zanzibar Gem is also an extremely adaptable houseplant. Be it low light corners, bright indirect light, or even under artificial light, it thrives.
Because of its robustness and elegant beauty, the ZZ Plant has been a darling to homes, offices, and even public areas. It’s considered a good first choice for those who have recently become plant parents or can’t seem to keep plants alive.
Now that you know what makes the Zanzibar Gem special, let’s see what wonderful benefits it offers and why it should be added to your collection.
Benefits of the Zanzibar Gem Plant
The Zanzibar Gem Plant is more than just a pretty addition to your home. It comes with several benefits that make it a top choice for plant lovers:
1. Low Maintenance
The Zanzibar Gem Plant is famously easy to care for. It doesn’t demand frequent watering or special care routines. Even if you forget to water it for weeks, it will keep growing, making it ideal for busy schedules or forgetful plant lovers.
2. Air Purification
Like many indoor plants, the Zanzibar Gem helps purify the air. It absorbs toxins and releases oxygen, improving the overall air quality in your space. This makes it a great choice for bedrooms, offices, or living areas.
3. Adaptable to Any Space
Whether your home is filled with natural light or tucked in the shade, this plant can adapt. It grows well in low-light environments, artificial lighting, and even in spaces with low humidity. This versatility makes it perfect for apartments, offices, or spots that don’t get much sunlight.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
The glossy, deep green leaves of the Zanzibar Gem add a touch of elegance to any space. Its upright growth and shiny foliage make it a stylish choice for modern homes and workspaces.
5. Hard to Kill
The Zanzibar Gem is one of the toughest houseplants around. It tolerates neglect better than most plants, making it a favorite for beginners and people without a “green thumb.”
6. Long Lifespan
True to its nickname, “Eternity Plant,” the Zanzibar Gem can live for many years with minimal care. Once it finds a happy spot in your home, it becomes a long-term companion.
7. Budget-Friendly and Widely Available
Compared to some exotic plants, the Zanzibar Gem is affordable and easy to find at most garden stores. Its durability means you won’t spend extra on constant replacements or specialized care.
Zanzibar Gem Plant combines beauty, resilience, and health benefits and so adds an important touch to any indoor plant collection. We will help you discover the perfect spot for your plant and explain how to make it thrive in the following pages.
Where to Place Your Zanzibar Gem Plant
Finding the right spot for your Zanzibar Gem Plant is key to helping it thrive. The good news? This plant is incredibly adaptable and can fit almost anywhere indoors. Here’s how to choose the best place:
1. Low-Light Corners
The Zanzibar Gem is a low-light champion. If you have dim corners or spaces without direct sunlight, this plant will still grow happily. It’s one of the few plants that can handle minimal light, making it perfect for hallways, basements, or shaded rooms.
2. Bright, Indirect Light
While the plant tolerates low light, it thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a window with filtered light will encourage faster growth and shinier leaves. Avoid direct sunlight, though—it can scorch the leaves and cause damage.
3. Office Desks or Workspaces
The plant’s ability to survive under artificial light makes it an ideal choice for offices or desks. Whether it’s fluorescent lights or LED lamps, the Zanzibar Gem can adapt and look great in professional spaces.
4. Bathrooms and Humid Areas
This plant isn’t picky about humidity, but it does well in areas with some moisture. Bathrooms with a bit of natural light are a great spot. Its shiny leaves also add a fresh and clean look to the space.
5. Temperature Considerations
The Zanzibar Gem loves warm temperatures. Keep it in areas between 60–75°F (15–24°C) for optimal health. Avoid placing it near drafty windows, air conditioners, or heaters, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant.
6. Out of Reach for Pets and Kids
Since the Zanzibar Gem is toxic when ingested, it’s essential to place it somewhere out of reach of pets and small children. High shelves, plant stands, or hanging planters are excellent options to keep everyone safe.
Quick Placement Tips
- Avoid spots with extreme sunlight or total darkness.
- Keep the plant in a stable environment with consistent temperature and light.
- Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure even growth on all sides.
By choosing the right location, your Zanzibar Gem Plant will stay healthy, grow beautifully, and add a touch of greenery to your space. Next, let’s dive into how to care for this resilient plant.
Easy Care Tips for Zanzibar Gem Plant
Caring for the Zanzibar Gem Plant is simple, even for beginners. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a favorite among plant lovers. Follow these easy tips to keep your plant thriving:
1. Watering Tips
- The Zanzibar Gem doesn’t need frequent watering. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- During warmer months, water every 2–3 weeks. In winter, you can reduce it to once a month.
- Always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
2. Light Requirements
- This plant grows well in low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- If you’re placing it in low light, give it some time in brighter conditions every few months for a boost.
3. Soil and Potting
- Use well-draining soil to avoid water retention. A mix of potting soil and sand or perlite works well.
- Report your Zanzibar Gem every 2–3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot. Choose a slightly larger pot each time.
4. Fertilizer Needs
- Feed your plant with a balanced houseplant fertilizer once every 2–3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this plant doesn’t need much to thrive. In winter, you can skip feeding altogether.
5. Cleaning the Leaves
- Dust can settle on the leaves, reducing their shine and ability to photosynthesize.
- Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean and glossy.
6. Pruning Tips
- The Zanzibar Gem rarely needs pruning, but you can remove yellowing or damaged leaves to keep it looking neat.
- Use clean scissors or pruning shears to avoid infecting the plant.
7. Pest and Disease Control
- This plant is resistant to most pests, but occasionally you might spot mealybugs or spider mites.
- If you notice pests, wipe the leaves with a solution of water and mild dish soap or use neem oil.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot or fungal issues.
8. Temperature and Humidity
- Keep the plant in temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C).
- It tolerates low humidity but appreciates occasional misting in dry conditions.
Quick Care Reminders
- Don’t overwater! The Zanzibar Gem prefers neglect over too much care.
- Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth.
- Avoid placing it in freezing temperatures or direct sunlight.
By following these simple care tips, your Zanzibar Gem Plant will reward you with lush, green foliage and minimal fuss. Up next, learn how to propagate your plant to grow even more of these hardy beauties!
How to Propagate Your Zanzibar Gem Plant
If you love your Zanzibar Gem and want to grow more, propagation is a simple and rewarding process. The plant’s ability to thrive in different conditions makes it easy to propagate at home. Here’s how to do it:
1. Propagation from Leaf Cuttings
The most common method of propagating a Zanzibar Gem is through leaf cuttings. Follow these steps:
- Choose a Healthy Leaf: Select a mature, healthy leaf from your plant. Look for one that’s not damaged or diseased.
- Cut the Leaf: Use sharp, clean scissors to cut the leaf at the base, near the stem. You can also cut the leaf into smaller sections (around 2-3 inches long), as each section has the potential to grow into a new plant.
- Let the Cuttings Callous: Place the cuttings in a dry spot for a few days so the cut edges can form a callous. This helps prevent rot when they’re placed in soil.
2. Rooting in Water
While you can propagate in soil, rooting the cuttings in water is often quicker and easier:
- Place in Water: Fill a glass with water, making sure the base of the cutting is submerged, but the leaf is above the waterline.
- Change the Water: Refresh the water every few days to keep it clean and oxygenated.
- Wait for Roots: After 3–4 weeks, you should see roots begin to grow from the base of the cutting. Once the roots are around 1-2 inches long, it’s time to transfer the cutting into soil.
3. Planting in Soil
- Prepare the Pot: After your cutting has developed roots, choose a small pot with good drainage. Fill it with a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the Cutting: Gently plant the rooted cutting into the soil, making sure the roots are well covered but the top of the cutting remains above the soil surface.
- Water Lightly: Water the newly potted cutting lightly, just enough to keep the soil moist. Be careful not to overwater.
4. Caring for New Plants
- Provide Indirect Light: Place your new plant in a bright, indirect light spot, but not in direct sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist, allowing it to dry out between waterings.
- Be Patient: New plants take time to grow. Be patient as they establish themselves.
5. Propagating via Division
If your Zanzibar Gem has become too large for its pot, you can also propagate by dividing the plant:
- Remove the Plant from the Pot: Gently remove the entire plant from its pot and shake off the excess soil.
- Separate the Roots: Carefully divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has healthy roots.
- Pot the Divisions: Plant each section into its own pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Quick Propagation Tips
- Use clean tools to avoid transferring bacteria or fungi.
- Ensure the cuttings have enough time to develop strong roots before planting in the soil.
- Keep new plants in a warm, bright area to encourage growth.
Propagation is a fun way to expand your Zanzibar Gem collection and share the plant’s beauty with others. By following these steps, you’ll soon have new plants to enjoy or give away. Next, let’s explore some common problems and solutions to help keep your Zanzibar Gem healthy and happy.
Common Problems and Solutions for Zanzibar Gem Plants
While the Zanzibar Gem is a hardy plant, it can still face some challenges from time to time. Don’t worry, though—most issues are easy to fix! Here’s a look at some common problems and how to solve them:
1. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves are one of the most common signs of stress in a Zanzibar Gem. Here are the main causes and solutions:
- Overwatering: This is the most likely culprit. Zanzibar Gems are drought-tolerant, so they don’t need frequent watering.
- Solution: Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Make sure your pot has proper drainage to avoid waterlogged roots.
- Low Light: If your plant isn’t getting enough light, the leaves may start turning yellow.
- Solution: Move your Zanzibar Gem to a spot with brighter, indirect light.
2. Brown or Crispy Leaf Tips
If the tips of your plant’s leaves are turning brown or crispy, it’s usually due to one of these factors:
- Underwatering: Although the plant doesn’t need much water, it can still get thirsty during hot months.
- Solution: Water your plant more frequently, but always let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Low Humidity: Zanzibar Gems can tolerate average humidity, but they may suffer if the air is too dry, especially in winter when heating systems are running.
- Solution: Lightly mist the leaves or place the plant near a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air.
3. Leggy Growth
Leggy growth occurs when your Zanzibar Gem isn’t getting enough light. The plant will start to grow tall and spindly as it searches for more light.
- Solution: Move your plant to a brighter location with indirect light. You may also want to rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth on all sides.
4. Root Rot
Root rot happens when the plant sits in waterlogged soil for too long. The roots become mushy, and the plant will start to show signs of decline.
- Solution: Check the roots by gently removing the plant from its pot. Trim away any brown, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. Always ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent future waterlogging.
5. Pests
While Zanzibar Gems are generally pest-resistant, they can occasionally attract mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing damage.
- Solution: If you notice pests, gently wipe the leaves with a cloth dipped in soapy water or apply neem oil to the affected areas. For severe infestations, consider using an insecticidal soap.
6. Drooping Leaves
If the leaves of your Zanzibar Gem are drooping, it could be a sign of several issues:
- Too much water or too little water: Both can cause drooping leaves.
- Solution: Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Make sure the plant isn’t standing in water.
- Sudden temperature changes: If your plant is exposed to drafts, air conditioners, or heaters, it can cause stress and drooping leaves.
- Solution: Keep your Zanzibar Gem in a stable environment with a consistent temperature between 60–75°F (15–24°C).
7. Plant Not Growing
Sometimes, your Zanzibar Gem might seem to stop growing altogether. This can happen if the plant is stressed or not getting the right care.
- Solution: Ensure the plant has enough light, is not overwatered, and is in a proper-sized pot. If the plant is root-bound, it may need repotting to encourage new growth.
Quick Problem-Solving Tips
- Always check the soil moisture before watering.
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
- Move the plant to a brighter location if it looks leggy or the leaves turn yellow.
- Keep pests under control by inspecting the plant regularly.
With a little attention, most issues with the Zanzibar Gem are easy to solve. This plant is very forgiving, so if you take care of the basic needs, it will bounce back quickly. In the next section, let’s go over the many benefits of having a Zanzibar Gem in your home.
Is the Zanzibar Gem Plant Safe for Pets and Kids?
No, the Zanzibar Gem plant is not safe for pets or kids. This plant contains compounds that are toxic when ingested, which can cause harm to both animals and humans.
For Pets:
- Toxic to Cats and Dogs: If your pet chews on the leaves or stems of the Zanzibar Gem, they could experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, or even more severe reactions depending on the amount ingested.
- Precaution: To keep your furry friends safe, it’s best to place the plant in an area that they can’t reach, like a high shelf or hanging pot.
For Kids:
- Potential Health Risks: Although not as common, children may also be at risk if they ingest parts of the plant. It’s important to supervise young children around plants and keep this one out of reach.
- What to Do: If your child or pet consumes any part of the Zanzibar Gem, seek medical advice immediately to ensure their safety.
Safety Tip:
While the plant is not recommended for households with pets or young children, its low-maintenance nature and air-purifying benefits make it a great option for adults and families without small children or animals. Always use caution and place it in a safe location.
Final Words
The Zanzibar Gem plant is a perfect choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-care-for, low-maintenance indoor plant. With its beautiful, glossy leaves and resilience to tough conditions, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers. Just remember to place it in a spot with indirect light, water it sparingly, and use well-draining soil to keep it healthy. While it’s toxic to pets and kids, keeping it out of their reach ensures a safe environment. With the right care, your Zanzibar Gem will thrive and be a stunning addition to your home.