I couldn’t think of a better place to start than with the “ZZ” Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) also known as the Aroid Palm.  It’s one of the recent indoor plants to hit the market and has been described as the ideal houseplant.  The ZZ plant can tolerate low light, lack of water, tough indoor conditions and even a certain amount of neglect.  In fact, because of its water-swollen stem structure and underground tubers, it can go for months without water!   And are you ready for this, it’s virtually resilient to insects.  What more could you ask for? 

The ZZ plant comes from Tanzania and Zanzibar and is a member of the philodendron and calla lily family. Plants stalks are swollen at the base and host thick, waxy leaves.  New growth begins bright green and matures to a deep, dark forest green color with a natural gloss as if leaf shine had been carefully applied to each leaf.  It blooms with a yellow brown spath – a flower typical of the traditional peace and cala lilies.  Mature plants can reach an average height of 16 to 18 inches and have a fairly wide plant spread. 

The ZZ plant is slow growing and easy to propagate if you are very patient.  Like the jade plant, it can be grown from leaf cuttings by inserting the stalk side down into moist soil.  The leaves will root, forming a tuber, and within a year new leaves will emerge. 

Although this is a tough plant, it does best in bright, filtered light, away from any hot direct afternoon sun that can burn it.   It prefers to be kept relatively dry.  Don’t let it sit in water or stay wet, otherwise, you may find yellowing leaves.

The ZZ plant isn’t an easy plant to find but is definitely worth the search.  With its unique leaf structure, the ZZ plant makes a great accent to any home or office decor.