ZZ plants do best in bright to moderate, indirect light but will do fine in extremely low levels of light. This plant makes an ideal plant for a window-less office or bathroom where it will only receive small amounts of fluorescent light.

While ZZ plants can take direct light, you may see some scalding on the leaves if it is left indirect light. Additionally, curling leaves, yellowing, and leaning can all be an indication of too much light. When you notice curling taking place, it typically means the plant is trying to move away from the light source. Move the plant to a shadier location or farther away from the light source. You can also try filtering the light with curtains or blinds if moving the plant is not feasible.

Caring for a ZZ Plant

ZZ plant care starts with a lack of care. In fact, ZZ plants will do better if you leave them alone.

Much like cacti, they need less rather than more water. Water the plant only when the soil has dried out. The rare way you can kill this plant is to overwater it. A ZZ plant turning yellow means that it is getting too much water and its underground rhizomes may be rotting. So if you remember nothing else about caring for a ZZ plant, just remember to forget to water it. It can survive months without water but will grow faster if watered somewhat regularly.

ZZ plants are happy without fertilizer, but if you would like, you can give the plants half-strength fertilizer one to two times a year and only in the summer months.

Growing ZZ houseplants is easy and especially suited for the forgetful gardener.