Zamia is a perennial succulent with green leaves and one of the most elegant and durable indoor plants. It does not have a central stem but many shoots that grow quickly and often has flowers. It belongs to the Araceae family and is known by many names such as Zamioculcas, ZZ plant, Emerald plant etc. It originates from the rainforests of Africa and is characterized by its impressive deep green glossy leaves that start from the rhizomes. It is a plant that does not exceed 1 meter in height but can spread the leaves if it is in a large pot. It is the ideal plant to fill empty spaces with its foliage.
What is the proper mounting position for zamia?
Zamia is resistant to low indirect lighting conditions but prefers a bright space inside the house or office. Avoid direct contact with the sun as it is more likely to cause burns on the leaves. Given its origin, zamia does not prefer cold at all. The minimum temperature that should enter is 10-12 degrees and the ideal for growth 22-35! Avoid cold air currents eg next to a window. Also, if a leaf turns yellow, just remove it.
What kind of soil does zamia need to thrive?
In order for our zamia to thrive, we choose topsoil for indoor plants with perlite and pumice that ensure good ventilation and drainage in the root system of the plant.
What are the watering and fertilizing needs of zamia?
It is not a demanding plant in terms of watering. It needs water about once a month while in summer months twice. The best way to water the weeds is to first check if the soil is dry. A good sign that the stem needs watering is to see if the branch below is soft then water, if it is hard not. With excessive watering the leaves will turn yellow.
Make sure that after watering the water drains from the saucer of the pot. A complete balanced fertilizer and application once a month for perfect results or even once a quarter is enough to give zamia the nutrients it needs. The fertilizer should be dissolved in water and added as a watering to the plant.
A tip for zamia care
It is a plant that is not easily attacked by diseases and enemies but if it encounters fungal diseases it is mainly difficult to impossible to cure. Excessive watering is the only enemy of the caterpillar as it will cause rot in its roots. Also be careful not to get your hands in contact with the plant juices as they contain calcium oxalate crystals and can cause irritation to sensitive skin.