How to care for a Zanzibar plant

How to care for the Zanzibar Gem

Our tips for growing it healthy and strong

The Zanzibar Gem, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a perennial plant native to East Africa. At our company, it’s appreciated for its hardiness and ability to adapt to different environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a touch of greenery at home without too much effort.

The right spot

The Zanzibar Gem prefers bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate low-light conditions. This makes it perfect for those corners of the home where other plants might not thrive. However, to get the best out of your plant, we recommend placing it somewhere it can receive plenty of filtered light.

When and how to water it

Water your Zanzibar Gem when the soil is completely dry. In summer, this could mean every 14 days, while in winter you may need to wait up to 21 days between waterings. To check the soil moisture, insert a finger or use a moisture meter.

Temperature and humidity

The Zanzibar Gem is comfortable in a temperature range of 18°C to 24°C, but can tolerate temperatures up to 30°C. It’s important to maintain a moderate humidity level, between 40% and 60%, to keep it healthy.

The right fertilizer

During spring and summer, we recommend fertilizing your Zanzibar Plant every 60 days with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will help the plant maintain vigorous, healthy growth.

The pot and soil

Use well-draining soil made from peat and perlite to prevent waterlogging, which could damage the roots. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away.

How to propagate it

The Zanzibar Plant can be propagated by division or leaf cuttings. Both methods require patience, especially propagation by leaf cuttings, which can take time to grow new plants.

Our final tip

The Zanzibar Plant is an ideal companion for anyone looking for a hardy, easy-care plant. Remember not to overwater it and to place it somewhere with indirect light to get the most out of your plant. With a little care, your Zanzibar Plant will reward you with its lush green foliage.

— The Gardens of Giulia

Verified care data

This data comes directly from the validated botanical record used to generate the guide.

Light

Moderate · Prefers bright indirect light but also tolerates low-light conditions.

Watering

14 days in summer · 21 days in winter · Water when the soil is completely dry. · Check soil moisture with a finger or a moisture meter.

Temperature

18 °C ideal minimum · 24 °C ideal maximum · 15 °C minimum tolerated · 30 °C maximum tolerated

Humidity

Moderate · 40% minimum · 60% maximum

Fertilizing

Balanced liquid fertilizer · Spring and summer · 60 days

Propagation

Division, leaf cuttings · Moderate · Propagating from leaf cuttings takes time to grow new plants.