Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
ZZ Plant Care in Phoenix
Zamioculcas zamiifolia Guide for Low-Maintenance homes
ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are beloved for their glossy leaves, sculptural stems, and “thrives-on-neglect” reputation. They store water in thick rhizomes and tolerate a wide range of light conditions, making them perfect for Phoenix homes, shops, and offices.
With the right light and a thoughtful watering schedule, they can stay shiny, upright, and vibrant year-round.
Light
ZZ plants adapt to many lighting environments, but they grow best in bright, indirect light. They will survive in low light but grow slowly and may stretch.
Best Phoenix spots:
Near a bright window, just outside of direct rays
East-facing light
A few feet back from south/west windows
Rooms with reflective, bright walls
Under a grow light if your room is dim
Avoid direct desert sun, which can scorch leaves.
Watering
ZZ plants have succulent-like roots and prefer to dry out between waterings. In Phoenix’s dry climate, they need slightly more frequent watering than in humid regions, but still far less than tropical houseplants.
Watering schedule:
Spring and Summer: Every 10–14 days
Fall and Winter: Every 2–3 weeks
Allow soil to dry out at least halfway down before watering. When you water, soak thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then empty any saucer.
Signs your ZZ needs water:
Wrinkling or folding leaves
Soft, deflated stems
Very dry, crumbly soil
Signs of too much water:
Yellowing leaves
Mushy stems or rhizomes
Sour smell in soil
Remember: underwatering is usually safer than overwatering with ZZ plants.
Soil & Repotting
Use an airy, fast-draining potting mix. A mix with indoor soil + perlite + a bit of bark is ideal.
Repot every 2–3 years or when rhizomes begin pressing against the pot. ZZ plants like to be slightly snug, so do not size up too quickly.
Maricopa Botanicals offers repotting services and can pot your ZZ into our handmade concrete planters, which help regulate moisture in desert homes.
Humidity & Temperature
ZZ plants thrive in standard indoor humidity and Phoenix temperature ranges.
Ideal range: 65–85°F
Avoid placing near:
AC vents
Heater vents
Drafty doorways in winter
They can go on shaded patios during mild weather but should be kept inside during extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly during warm growing months. Use a gentle fertilizer once every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer.
Skip fertilizing in winter.
Our house-made liquid fertilizer is ideal for steady, low-strength nutrition without salt buildup.
Cleaning & Maintenance
ZZ leaves collect dust easily, especially in sunny windows or near vents. Wipe with our natural leaf cleaner or a soft damp cloth to keep them shiny and help photosynthesis.
Remove yellow or softened leaves at the base to keep the plant tidy.
Propagation
ZZ plants can be propagated by:
Dividing rhizomes during repotting
Leaf cuttings rooted in soil or water (slow but doable)
Stem cuttings for faster results
If you’d like us to help with division or propagation, bring your plant into Maricopa Botanicals anytime.
Common Issues
Yellow leaves
Usually watering too often. Allow soil to dry before watering again.
Wrinkled leaves or drooping stems
Underwatered. Water deeply and let excess drain.
Stretched or floppy growth
Not enough light. Move to brighter indirect light or supplement with a grow light.
Brown tips
Typically dry air, missed waterings, or tap-water mineral buildup. Water more consistently and try filtered water if severe.
Final Thoughts
ZZ plants are some of the most reliable, low-maintenance houseplants for Phoenix living. With bright filtered light, drying cycles between waterings, and well-draining soil, they stay lush, architectural, and glossy.
Visit Maricopa Botanicals for help with repotting, plant care products, and propagation services made for desert homes and shops.
