Dwarf ZZ Plant: How to Grow and Care for It

The Dwarf ZZ plant, Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Zenzi’, is a popular houseplant known for its compact structure and uniquely upward-curling leaves, which create a dense appearance. Its resilience and low-maintenance nature make it suitable for those new to indoor gardening. The ‘Zenzi’ offers the look of its larger relative in a form that fits well in smaller living spaces like apartments or on office desks.

Dwarf ZZ Plant Versus Regular ZZ Plant

The primary distinction between the ‘Zenzi’ and the standard Zamioculcas zamiifolia is its size. A regular ZZ plant can reach heights of three to four feet, whereas the dwarf ‘Zenzi’ variety stays under two feet tall, making it more adaptable to tabletops and shelves.

Another key difference is the foliage arrangement. The standard ZZ plant has leaflets that are more widely spaced along its stems. In contrast, the ‘Zenzi’ has leaves that are densely packed and curled, giving the stems a fuller look. The growth rate of the ‘Zenzi’ is also notably slower, meaning it will maintain its small stature for a long time.

Dwarf ZZ Plant Care Guide

Light

The Dwarf ZZ plant is famously adaptable and can tolerate low-light environments, one reason for its popularity in offices. For optimal growth, however, providing bright, indirect light is best. A location that receives filtered sunlight will encourage a more robust plant. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves.

Water

These plants have rhizomes, which are underground stems that store water, making them highly susceptible to overwatering. The soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. To check for moisture, insert your finger about two inches into the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot, and then discard any excess water from the saucer.

Soil

Dwarf ZZ plants require a potting medium with excellent drainage to prevent water from sitting around the rhizomes, which leads to root rot. A standard cactus or succulent mix is a suitable choice. You can also create your own mix by amending regular potting soil with materials like perlite or coarse sand to increase aeration and improve drainage.

Temperature and Humidity

Dwarf ZZ plants thrive in typical household conditions, preferring temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be protected from temperatures that drop below 45 degrees. They are tolerant of average indoor humidity levels and do not require supplemental humidity. Keep them away from drafts from open windows, doors, or air conditioning vents.

Fertilizer

This plant has minimal fertilizer needs due to its slow growth rate. During the spring and summer growing season, you can feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once every one to two months. It is not necessary to fertilize during the fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, which can damage the roots.

How to Propagate a Dwarf ZZ Plant

Propagating a Dwarf ZZ plant requires patience. One method is through division, which is best done when repotting. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes. Ensure that each new section has at least one stem and a healthy portion of the rhizome attached before planting it in its own pot with fresh soil.

Another popular method is leaf cuttings, although this is a very slow process. Select a healthy, mature leaf and make a clean cut at the base of its stalk. You can then place the cut end into a small pot of moist soil, as it can take several months for a new rhizome and roots to form.

Common Dwarf ZZ Plant Problems

Yellowing leaves are a frequent issue and a sign of overwatering. If you notice the leaves turning yellow, it indicates the rhizomes are in soil that is too wet. To remedy this, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.

Mushy stems or a soft base are more severe symptoms of root rot. If you detect these signs, remove the plant from its pot to inspect the rhizomes. Cut away any soft, brown, or mushy parts with a sterile knife and repot the healthy remainder in fresh, dry soil.

Leggy growth, where the stems become stretched out with sparse leaves, indicates the plant is not receiving enough light. Moving it to a location with brighter, indirect light will encourage more compact growth.