Chris Buckland
If there is one plant that you will never want to put out of its season, it is a houseplant. There are literally hundreds of species of houseplants that can be found all around the world and many of them have unique and fascinating characteristics.
Zamioculcas, which means “little broom” in Latin, is one of those houseplants that is hard to miss. They are the smallest and least-known of all the houseplants, but they are also one of the most fascinating.
This article will guide you through the ins and outs of this fascinating species, which is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Learn why you should not keep this plant as a houseplant, plus tips for growing this indoor tropical beauty successfully.
What is Zamioculcas?
Zamioculcas is a tropical houseplant that is native to tropical regions of the world. It is also commonly known as a fairy lantern plant, but it goes by several other names such as coral fern, coral plant, and mistletoe plant.
Depending on the location where you purchase it, you can either choose to plant it in pots or in hanging baskets. This plant is easy to grow and is extremely easy to maintain.
The main reason that it excels at growing indoors is due to its small size. You will not even be able to see it from outside the home.
In fact, it does not require much space to thrive as compared to other houseplants. All you will need to do is to provide it with a little light and it will do the rest.
Characteristics Table
| Origin | South Africa |
| Scientific Name | Zamioculcas zamiifolia |
| Common Names | ZZ Plant, Aroid Palm, Arum Fern |
| Type | Tropical perennial |
| Family | Araceae |
| Temperature | 65° to 79°F |
| Watering | Every 2-3 weeks |
| Light | Bright to moderate, Indirect light |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets |
| Propagation | Propagation through stem cutting or leaf cutting |
| Flowering | It produces a spadix-type flower similar to the peace lily but harder to see |
| Maximum Size | 30 cm |
The Importance of Light
While the general rule of thumb is to grow plants in light that reaches 65% of the total light intensity within the room they are in, Zamioculcas benefits the most from light that is even dimmer.
This is because the light that is less bright will be able to pass through the thin, delicate leaves of this plant and reach the smaller, less complex cells of its leaves and stems. This light is also said to be free of blue wavelengths that are harmful to this plant.
The Burden of Being the Lightest
The name pretty much says it all. This is one of those plants that looks great in small pots and hanging baskets, but you would be better off growing it in a smaller pot.
The reason for this is that this plant needs to be kept soil-free to reach its full potential. Otherwise, it will require a much bigger pot and space that you just don’t have access to.
How to Grow Zamioculcas This is one of those houseplants that require minimum maintenance.
It can be grown in almost any sunlight-compromised location such as a south or southeast-facing window or door, or in a room that gets limited light from other sources.
To make the most of its small size, it is advisable to plant it in a pot. This will allow you to easily keep it secure from rodents and other harmful animals. It should be kept soil-free as soon as possible to get the best out of the plant.
So, What’s so Special About Zamioculcas?
There are literally hundreds of species of houseplants that can be found all over the world. As such, it is difficult to know which ones are endemic to a country or region. What is more, many of them are quite common and can even be found in gardens and parks all over the world.
When it comes to Zamioculcas, however, there are a few things that set it apart from the rest. It is one of the smallest and least-known of all the houseplants, and it is also one of the most fascinating.
1. The Flowering Habits of Zamioculcas Are Quite Interesting:
Unlike many other houseplants that begin to flower once it is in their year of bloom, the flowering of Zamioculcas is a two-step process. The plant first flowers in the spring and then again in the fall.
It is believed that this is due to the plants taking in nutrients and then releasing them as a natural fertilizer.
However, what is even more fascinating is that the flowering of this plant can continue well into the winter months. This means that this houseplant continues to flower even though you have it in your house!
2. Zamioculcas is Easy to Grow and Maintenance Is Even Easier
The single greatest reason that you should grow this plant is because of its ease of growth. Unlike other houseplants that require a lot of effort when it comes to growing, Zamioculcas only requires light, soil, and water.
What you need to do is to plant it in a little pot, add some soil, and water it regularly like other houseplants. You will also want to remove the leaves from the plant after the winter months are over so that it can grow its new leaves in the spring.
3. Zamioculcas Is very Diverse and Will Not Co-Sitiate With Other Plants
This is one of those plants that should be the only indoor plant in the house. While other houseplants co-exist with other plants and even perform mutual benefits, Zamioculcas is one of the rarest plants you will ever come across.
It is believed to be a host to a tiny, delicate ecosystem consisting of other houseplants, insects, and spiders. The result is a very peaceful and elegant-looking landscape.
Please read this article on “The 5 Types of Fuzzy Flowers & Plants You Need to Know” to find out types of fuzzy flowers & plants.
FAQs
Does Zamioculcas need sun?
Zamioculcas is a beautiful indoor plant that doesn’t require direct sunlight to thrive. This tropical plant can grow beautifully inside your home, office, or greenhouse without any sunlight exposure.
Is Zamioculcas an indoor plant?
Zamioculcas is an indoor plant that is easy to care for. It requires low light and little water. It can be grown in a pot or as a houseplant. It is best to water Zamioculcas once every two weeks, but the soil should be lightly moistened. The plant prefers soil that is slightly on the dry side.
Why Zamioculcas plant is poisonous?
Zamioculcas, also known as zamias, are a type of indoor plant that can be toxic if ingested. The toxicity is due to saponins, which are found in all parts of the plant (leaves, flowers, and roots).
Conclusion
The Zamioculcas plant is a tropical houseplant that is native to tropical regions of the world. It is also commonly known as a fairy lantern plant but goes by several other names such as coral fern, coral plant, and mistletoe plant.
It likes full sun and requires very little water, but does best in soil that is very fertile and well-draining. While it is easy to grow and needs little maintenance, its flowers are quite beautiful and worth waiting for.
If you love plants and enjoy ornamental gardening, you should definitely consider growing this amazing houseplant.
It will enhance the beauty and peaceful atmosphere of your home and add a tropical flair that will surely brighten up your valuable living space.
