ZZ Black in Terracotta Chalice

ZZ stores water in thick stems and rhizomes. Too much water is the main risk.

Where to keep it?

Think bright shade, but it also tolerates lower light.

• Indoors: bright indirect is ideal.
• Outdoors: bright shade / filtered light.

How much watering?

Root rot happens when the soil stays wet.

• Finger test: push 1 inch deep (for ZZ, also check a little deeper if the pot is large).
• If it’s moist, wait.
• If it’s dry, water thoroughly and let it dry again.
• Summer: usually 1x every 10–14 days.
• Winter: usually 1x every 3–4 weeks.
  

Other care tips

• If growth is slow, it’s usually light, not “more water.”
• Wipe leaves—ZZ leaves are dust magnets.