Feature Friday: Caring for the Resilient ZZ Plant

THE FEATURE

From African Origins to Global Fame

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) hails from the drought-prone grasslands and forests of Eastern Africa, stretching from Kenya to northeastern South Africa . In its native habitat, it has evolved to withstand harsh conditions, thanks to its water-storing rhizomes and hardy nature. Though known to local communities for centuries, it wasn't until the mid-1990s that Dutch nurseries began propagating it on a large scale, introducing this resilient beauty to homes and offices worldwide.

The plant’s rise in popularity was swift and well-earned. Its tolerance for low light, rare watering needs, and sleek, architectural form made it an instant favorite for interior designers and plant lovers alike. Often dubbed the "eternity plant" or "Zanzibar Gem," the ZZ found its way into lobbies, libraries, and living rooms across the globe, celebrated as much for its aesthetic as for its near-indestructibility. It’s a modern-day marvel—equal parts ornamental and utilitarian—offering greenery to spaces where most plants wouldn’t dare grow.

Cultural Significance of the ZZ Plant

In cultures across Africa and Asia, the ZZ Plant isn’t just a symbol of survival—it’s a representation of prosperity, resilience, and balance. In the principles of Feng Shui, the ZZ Plant is considered a powerful talisman for attracting wealth and protective energy. Its upright, steady growth and glossy, coin-shaped leaves are said to resemble jade, a traditional emblem of wealth. As such, it's often placed near entrances or in wealth corners (the southeast corner of a room or home) to invite abundance and harmony. In Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian system of architecture and energy flow, the ZZ Plant is recommended for maintaining positive vibrations, especially in workspaces or study areas.

Even beyond these traditions, the plant has grown into a modern cultural icon. Interior designers favor it for more than its looks—it carries with it the subtle narrative of quiet strength and calm. In minimalist homes or maximalist offices, it’s a plant that fits any story. And for those just beginning their plant journey, the ZZ’s forgiving nature makes it a kind of rite of passage—a green companion that says, “You’ve got this.”