What Are the Benefits of Having a ZZ Plant Indoors?
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts and novice plant owners alike. Known for its glossy, dark green leaves and unique structural appeal, the ZZ plant has become a beloved houseplant due to its beauty, low maintenance requirements, and resilience in various conditions. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the ZZ plant offers several benefits when grown indoors, making it a versatile addition to any home or office environment.
In this article, we will explore the many advantages of keeping a ZZ plant indoors, including its air-purifying properties, adaptability to low light, and positive effects on mental health. We'll also touch on some practical care tips to help you make the most of your ZZ plant.
1. Air Purification
One of the most significant benefits of having a ZZ plant indoors is its ability to purify the air. Like many other indoor plants, the ZZ plant can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. This natural process makes it a valuable addition to homes and offices, especially in areas where ventilation may be limited.
How the ZZ Plant Purifies the Air
NASA's Clean Air Study has shown that certain houseplants can remove toxins from the air. The ZZ plant is effective at filtering common indoor pollutants, such as benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and xylene. These volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are often found in household items such as cleaning products, furniture, and paints.
By placing a ZZ plant in rooms where these chemicals are present, you can reduce the levels of toxins in the air, which may help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues. Get an air purifier to further enhance indoor air quality along with your ZZ plant.
2. Low Maintenance Requirements
The ZZ plant is famous for being incredibly low-maintenance, making it ideal for busy individuals or those who may not have a green thumb. Unlike some houseplants that require precise watering schedules and specific environmental conditions, the ZZ plant is hardy and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Tolerant to Infrequent Watering
The ZZ plant has rhizomes, which are thick, potato-like structures that store water. This adaptation allows the plant to survive extended periods of drought, making it more forgiving if you forget to water it occasionally. In fact, the plant prefers to dry out between waterings, which helps to prevent root rot. Use a watering can to water your ZZ plant sparingly when the soil feels dry.
Minimal Pruning and Cleaning
Since the ZZ plant grows slowly and maintains its shape well, it requires very little pruning. You may only need to trim off yellowing leaves or damaged parts to keep it looking healthy. Additionally, the smooth, waxy leaves of the ZZ plant are easy to wipe clean, helping to keep the foliage free of dust. Get pruning shears for occasional trimming.
3. Adaptability to Low Light Conditions
Another significant advantage of the ZZ plant is its ability to thrive in low light environments. This plant can grow in areas with minimal natural light, making it suitable for dimly lit rooms, offices, or spaces without windows. While the ZZ plant prefers bright, indirect light, it can adapt to various light levels without losing its luster.
Ideal for Offices and Indoor Spaces with Limited Sunlight
In workplaces or homes where natural light is scarce, the ZZ plant can still flourish. It’s one of the few plants that can tolerate low light without compromising its health. This makes it an excellent choice for rooms such as bathrooms, hallways, or basements, where light may not be abundant.
For more detailed care instructions on keeping your ZZ plant thriving in low light, check out our ZZ plant care guide for low light.
Use of Artificial Lighting
If you wish to boost your ZZ plant's growth, consider using artificial lighting to supplement the light levels in your home. Use grow lights designed for houseplants to provide adequate light for your ZZ plant in dark areas.
4. Drought Tolerance
The ZZ plant is known for its drought tolerance, which is a direct result of its ability to store water in its rhizomes. This characteristic makes it a resilient choice for those who may occasionally neglect their houseplants. If you tend to forget to water your plants or travel frequently, the ZZ plant can handle periods of neglect better than many other indoor plants.
How to Water a ZZ Plant Properly
When it comes to watering, the ZZ plant prefers a "less is more" approach. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and make sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Choose pots with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging the roots.
5. Stylish Aesthetic Appeal
The ZZ plant's glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room. Its upright growth habit and striking foliage make it an attractive focal point, whether placed on a shelf, table, or floor. The plant's architectural form adds structure to interior spaces, enhancing the visual appeal of your home or office.
Suitable for Various Interior Styles
The ZZ plant's versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into different decor styles, from modern minimalist to rustic or bohemian. Its lush green leaves create a beautiful contrast against neutral color palettes, while its sleek form complements contemporary settings. Find a decorative plant pot that matches your interior style to enhance the look of your ZZ plant.
6. Improves Mental Health and Wellbeing
Having a ZZ plant indoors can positively impact your mental health and overall wellbeing. Houseplants, including the ZZ plant, have been shown to reduce stress, boost mood, and increase feelings of calmness. The simple act of caring for a plant can also provide a sense of purpose and routine, which can be especially beneficial during times of isolation or stress.
Therapeutic Benefits of Indoor Plants
Research has indicated that interacting with indoor plants can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and improve focus and productivity. The ZZ plant, with its low maintenance requirements, makes it an ideal choice for those who want to experience the therapeutic benefits of houseplants without the added pressure of extensive care routines. Use a plant care book to learn more about the benefits of indoor plants.
7. Safe for Low-Light Workspaces
The ZZ plant is particularly useful in workspaces, such as offices and cubicles, where natural light may be limited. Its ability to tolerate low-light environments and adapt to artificial light makes it a great choice for indoor office settings. Keeping a ZZ plant on your desk can add a touch of greenery and provide a calming atmosphere, which may help improve concentration and productivity.
Placement Tips for Offices
Place the ZZ plant in a location where it can receive some ambient light, such as near a window with blinds or under fluorescent lighting. The plant will still thrive even if it’s positioned away from direct sunlight. Get a plant stand to elevate your ZZ plant and make it a stylish addition to your workspace.
8. Pest Resistance
Another benefit of keeping a ZZ plant indoors is its resistance to pests. Unlike some other houseplants, the ZZ plant is not as prone to common pests such as spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. This pest resistance makes it an even more attractive choice for indoor gardening, as it reduces the need for pesticides or other pest control measures.
Why the ZZ Plant is Less Susceptible to Pests
The wax coating on the ZZ plant's leaves acts as a natural barrier that helps deter pests. This protective coating also makes the plant easier to clean, as it prevents dust and dirt from sticking to the foliage. Use a leaf shine spray to keep the leaves glossy and dust-free.
9. Suitable for Low Humidity Environments
The ZZ plant can tolerate low humidity levels, making it ideal for indoor environments where the air may be drier, such as homes with air conditioning or central heating. While some houseplants require high humidity to thrive, the ZZ plant is not as fussy and can adapt to various humidity levels without suffering from leaf browning or dryness.
How to Care for ZZ Plants in Dry Conditions
Even though the ZZ plant can handle low humidity, it’s still a good idea to mist the leaves occasionally or place a humidifier nearby during the winter months when indoor air tends to be drier. Get a humidifier to help maintain the optimal humidity level for your indoor plants.
10. Non-Toxic Properties (to an Extent)
While the ZZ plant is considered mildly toxic if ingested, it is not highly dangerous. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild irritation if chewed or consumed. However, it poses less of a risk compared to other houseplants that are more toxic. It’s still wise to keep the plant out of reach of pets and children to avoid accidental ingestion.
How to Keep the ZZ Plant Safely in Homes with Pets or Children
If you have curious pets or young children, place the ZZ plant on a high shelf or in a hanging planter where they cannot access it. Use hanging planters to keep your ZZ plant safely out of reach.
11. Aesthetic Flexibility
The ZZ plant offers a range of placement possibilities thanks to its versatile appearance and adaptability. Whether you place it in a living room, bedroom, bathroom, or office, the ZZ plant can add life and style to any indoor setting. Its upright growth habit and ability to withstand low light make it a flexible choice for various placements within your home.
How to Style a ZZ Plant Indoors
Pair your ZZ plant with a decorative planter that complements your interior decor. Choose stylish pots that match your home's aesthetic to make the ZZ plant a focal point in your indoor garden.
12. Boosts Productivity and Creativity
Having a ZZ plant indoors can have a positive effect on productivity and creativity. Studies have shown that exposure to indoor plants can enhance cognitive functions and boost creativity, making the ZZ plant a valuable addition to workspaces and study areas.
Ideal for Home Offices
Place a ZZ plant on your desk or workspace to create a calming atmosphere that may help reduce stress and improve focus. The plant's low maintenance requirements mean you can enjoy its presence without worrying about constant care. Add a desk plant to enhance your work environment.
13. Helps Reduce Noise Levels
Indoor plants, including the ZZ plant, can help reduce background noise by absorbing sound. This benefit can be especially helpful in areas with hard surfaces such as wooden floors or tile, where sound may echo. By placing plants throughout your space, you can create a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
How to Use ZZ Plants for Noise Reduction
Position your ZZ plant in rooms where noise is most noticeable, such as hallways, living rooms, or home offices. You can also combine the ZZ plant with other indoor plants to further reduce noise levels. Use a plant arrangement to strategically place plants in areas where sound absorption is needed.
14. Long Lifespan
The ZZ plant is a long-lived houseplant that, with proper care, can thrive for many years. Its durability and resilience make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a plant to their home that will last for the long term. As the ZZ plant continues to grow, it can be divided or propagated to create more plants, allowing you to share it with friends and family.
Propagation Tips for ZZ Plants
If you want to propagate your ZZ plant, consider division or leaf cuttings. The rhizomes can be separated and potted individually to create new plants. Use propagation tools for easier plant propagation.
With all these benefits, the ZZ plant truly stands out as an exceptional choice for indoor gardening, offering beauty, functionality, and ease of care to any indoor space.
