Why Your ZZ Plant is Leggy and How to Fix It

A leggy ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is characterized by elongated stems with wide gaps between the leaves. This stretching gives the plant a sparse and unbalanced appearance, with weak stalks that droop over the sides of the pot. This growth pattern is a condition that can be corrected with a few direct actions.

Why ZZ Plants Become Leggy

The primary reason a ZZ plant becomes leggy is its response to inadequate lighting. This process, known as etiolation, is a plant’s survival mechanism to seek out more light. When a ZZ plant is in a dim environment, its stems stretch and the spaces between the leaves, the internodes, lengthen considerably.

While ZZ plants are celebrated for their tolerance of low-light, this does not mean they thrive in near darkness. There is a threshold below which the plant’s growth form will be compromised. Insufficient light for prolonged periods causes the plant to prioritize stem elongation over leaf production, resulting in a weakened structure.

How to Fix a Leggy ZZ Plant

Addressing a leggy ZZ plant involves pruning the stretched-out stems. This improves the plant’s appearance and encourages new, healthier growth. Identify the stems that are noticeably elongated and use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut and prevent introducing diseases.

You can prune the leggy stem all the way down to the soil line. This encourages the plant to produce new shoots directly from its rhizome base. Alternatively, you can cut the stem back to a desired height to maintain some fullness while the plant recovers. The cut should be made just above a leaf node.

A benefit of pruning is the opportunity for propagation. The healthy sections of the stems you’ve removed can be used to grow new ZZ plants. Allow the cut end of the stem cutting to dry for a few hours. Afterward, the cutting can be placed in a fresh pot of soil or a jar of water, where it will develop roots over several months.

Preventing Future Legginess

To prevent legginess from recurring, providing the right amount of light is the primary adjustment. A ZZ plant flourishes in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window with gentle morning sun is an ideal location. A spot several feet from a south- or west-facing window also works well, providing brightness without the risk of leaf scorch.

Consistent rotation of the plant promotes balanced and even growth. Every few weeks, give the pot a quarter turn. This action ensures that all sides of the plant receive equal light exposure over time, preventing the side facing away from the light source from stretching.

For stems that remain weak as the plant recovers, you can provide temporary physical support. A small stake or a bamboo hoop can be inserted into the soil. Gently tie the weakened stem to the support using soft plant ties or twine to hold it upright as stronger, more compact growth emerges.