Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the Zanzibar Gem, is a tough, glossy-leaved plant prized for its ability to thrive with minimal care. Its thick stems and underground rhizomes store water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and indoor spaces. Popular as a houseplant, Zanzibar Gem is also known for helping improve indoor air quality by reducing common airborne pollutants. With its upright, sculptural form and deep green, leathery foliage, it adds a clean, modern look to interiors and sheltered outdoor areas. Please note: this plant is considered toxic if ingested and the sap may irritate skin and eyes.
Light requirement: Shade to bright, indirect light. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Water requirement: Low. Overwatering is the most common issue.
Watering frequency: Occasionally. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Soil: Well-draining soil. Adding perlite or sand improves drainage.
Skill level: Beginner Green thumb
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, faster in bright light
Suitable for container gardens: Yes, ideal for indoor pots, balconies, and shaded outdoor areas.
Mature Height: 45–60 cm
Mature Width: 45–60 cm
Seasonality: Evergreen
Drought Tolerant: Yes
Frost Tolerant: No. Protect from frost and cold exposure.
Wind Tolerant: Yes, in sheltered positions
Leaf colour: Emerald green, glossy and leathery
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: Leaf stems up to 60 cm long, pinnate with 6–8 pairs of oval leaflets (7–15 cm long)
Flower Colour: Yellow to brown/bronze (rare indoors)
Flower Shape: Central spike (spadix) with surrounding bract
Flower Fragrance: None
Flower Season: Under optimal conditions
Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the Zanzibar Gem, is a tough, glossy-leaved plant prized for its ability to thrive with minimal care. Its thick stems and underground rhizomes store water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and indoor spaces. Popular as a houseplant, Zanzibar Gem is also known for helping improve indoor air quality by reducing common airborne pollutants. With its upright, sculptural form and deep green, leathery foliage, it adds a clean, modern look to interiors and sheltered outdoor areas. Please note: this plant is considered toxic if ingested and the sap may irritate skin and eyes.
Light requirement: Shade to bright, indirect light. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Water requirement: Low. Overwatering is the most common issue.
Watering frequency: Occasionally. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Soil: Well-draining soil. Adding perlite or sand improves drainage.
Skill level: Beginner Green thumb
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, faster in bright light
Suitable for container gardens: Yes, ideal for indoor pots, balconies, and shaded outdoor areas.
Mature Height: 45–60 cm
Mature Width: 45–60 cm
Seasonality: Evergreen
Drought Tolerant: Yes
Frost Tolerant: No. Protect from frost and cold exposure.
Wind Tolerant: Yes, in sheltered positions
Leaf colour: Emerald green, glossy and leathery
Leaf Variegation pattern: No
Size of leaf: Leaf stems up to 60 cm long, pinnate with 6–8 pairs of oval leaflets (7–15 cm long)
Flower Colour: Yellow to brown/bronze (rare indoors)
Flower Shape: Central spike (spadix) with surrounding bract
Flower Fragrance: None
Flower Season: Under optimal conditions