Zamioculcas zamiolistas is a plant that is increasingly common in homes, offices, cafes and many other places where you can enjoy the sight of it. Zamioculcas is a perennial plant of the araceae family, naturally found in Tanzania and Zanzibar. It has also been popular as a houseplant for more than two decades. What is worth knowing about it?
Zamioculcas care
Zamioculcas usually grows to a height of 30 to 100cm. It does not produce a stem and trunk, but rhizomes with a diameter of about 4cm from which leaves grow. Elliptical, thick, stiff dark green leaves reach a length of up to 10cm. In natural conditions the plant in question produces colloquial white-green flowers, in domestic conditions this is rather rare. Nevertheless, the plant can settle well in our home and add charm and elegance to the interior.
Zamioculcas how to grow?
Cultivation and care should not cause difficulties. It is a plant that does not require particularly expert knowledge. It does not need excessive watering and fertilization, in addition, it also copes well with insufficient light.
Zamioculcas watering
This plant does not require particularly much water, and can also cope with drought conditions, so it can survive for up to 2 weeks without a drop of water. This is due to the accumulation of water in the thick leaves and underground rhizomes. So, the flower should be watered only when the ground is dry – if over-watered, the plant may start to die. Also, do not spray the leaves of the plant with water.
Sunlight
Zamioculcas likes a place where there is twilight, but it will also cope in darkened areas. With prolonged light deficiency, its leaves turn yellow. On the other hand, in case of prolonged sunlight, brownish spots may appear on the leaves. It is also worth mentioning that the leaves of this plant elongate and turn towards the light, hence remember to rotate the pot from time to time. This will ensure that the entire plant develops evenly.
Temperature
As a thermophilic plant, zamiokulkas feels good in high temperatures. In the summer it is around250C. In winter, the suitable temperature will be about200C. A temperature below50Cis dangerous for the plant. It can lead to freezing. It is also worth remembering not to rather buy this plant in winter, as we may not be able to acclimatize it with the prevailing cold.
Earth
Zamioculcas prefers fertile and humus soil with a slightly acidic pH, in the range of 5.5 to 6.5. with a permeable substrate. It is also worth adding some gravel or sand to it, and the pot should be wide so that the rhizomes can grow in it.
Zamioculcas repotting
Young plants should be repotted once a year, older plants should be repotted every two to three years or when they no longer fit in the pot. The right time to repot plants is early spring.
Zamioculcas propagation
If you grow the plant at home, propagation can only be done by dividing the rhizomes or leaf cuttings. Division of rhizomes should be carried out in early spring, while leaf cuttings should be made in June at the latest. The cuttings root within 4 weeks in a medium consisting of peat, sand and perlite.
Zamioculcas diseases and pests
Yes, as we wrote the most harmful to the plant is a fungal disease caused by excess water. If you overwater, withering brown stripes may appear on the petioles of the leaves. Cut them off with a sharp knife, leaving the healthy tissue of the plant intact. As for threatening pests, spider mites stand out mainly. These pests like high temperatures, and a plant attacked by them can begin to yellow and wither. It is worth buying a preparation against these pests, otherwise the plant may die.
Zamioculcas is not a demanding plant to grow at home. However, it is worth remembering the basic rules of care. The most harmful for it is excess water and pest activity. However, with regular care, we should not experience major problems with zamiokulkas. It is a graceful and beautiful plant that fits well in homes and offices.