How to Grow and Care for a Variegated ZZ Plant

The Variegated ZZ Plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Variegata’, is a visually distinct version of the common ZZ plant, highly sought after by plant collectors for its striking foliage. The plant features deep green, glossy leaves decorated with splashes and stripes of creamy white or yellow. This coloration makes each leaf unique and, combined with its relative rarity, establishes the Variegated ZZ as a desirable specimen for indoor collections.

Variegated ZZ Plant Care

Caring for a variegated ZZ plant requires attention to its specific needs, which differ from the standard green variety. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, which helps maintain its vibrant colors. Unlike the regular ZZ that tolerates low light, the variegated version may lose its distinct patterns and struggle in dim conditions because its variegated sections cannot perform photosynthesis.

These plants are susceptible to root rot, so proper watering is important. The Variegated ZZ stores water in its underground rhizomes, making it quite drought-tolerant. It is best to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as the variegated leaf sections are sensitive to the stress of overwatering.

A well-draining, airy medium, such as a commercial cactus or succulent mix, is ideal. Amending the soil with perlite or orchid bark can further improve aeration and drainage, preventing water from accumulating around the rhizomes.

These plants are comfortable in typical household environments, preferring warm temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate average indoor humidity but should be kept away from cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations. A balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer can be applied every few months during the spring and summer growing season.

Managing Variegation

Variegation is the result of a genetic mutation that causes a plant to have areas with no chlorophyll. In the Variegated ZZ Plant, this instability can sometimes lead to a process called reversion. Reversion occurs when a stalk produces leaves that are entirely green, as the plant favors the more efficient, chlorophyll-producing sections to generate energy.

Providing the right amount of bright, indirect light is a primary tool for management. While direct sun can scorch the delicate variegated parts of the leaves, sufficient indirect light encourages the plant to maintain its colorful foliage. Insufficient light may cause the variegation to fade as the plant produces more chlorophyll to compensate.

One of the most direct ways to manage variegation is through pruning. If you notice a stalk has fully reverted to green, it is recommended to prune it off at the base. Removing these all-green stalks encourages the plant to direct its energy toward producing more of the desired variegated growth.

Propagating Variegated ZZ Plants

Propagating a Variegated ZZ Plant is a slow but rewarding process, with stem cuttings being the most reliable method to preserve the coloration. Leaf cuttings are less predictable for variegated types and often revert to all-green offspring because the genetic mutation may not be stable in a single leaf.

To propagate using a stem cutting, select a healthy stalk that displays strong variegation. Use a clean, sharp blade to cut the stalk at its base. Allow the cutting to sit out for a few hours to form a callus over the cut end, which helps prevent rot, before placing it in water or soil.

Patience is required, as they are notoriously slow growers. It can take several months for roots to develop and even longer for new growth to appear. Placing the cutting in a warm spot with bright, indirect light can support the rooting process.

Common Issues

Brown spots on the white or yellow sections of the leaves are a common complaint. These spots are often a sign of sunburn from direct sunlight, as the variegated areas lack protective pigment. Overwatering can also cause cellular collapse, leading to similar blemishes.

Extremely slow growth is another characteristic. Due to having less chlorophyll, its capacity for energy production is naturally lower than an all-green ZZ Plant. While slow growth is normal, it can be worsened by inadequate light, so moving it to a brighter location may help.

Like many houseplants, the Variegated ZZ can be susceptible to pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Manage these by regularly inspecting the leaves, including the undersides, and wiping them down. If pests are present, treating the plant with a natural pesticide like neem oil is an effective solution.