The Zanzibar plant, also known as the Zanzibar Gem or ZZ plant, with its towering green stems (sometimes gently arched with splashes of yellow and white) and a foliage complexion that’s waxy smooth, has certainly made quite the impression. Originating in the wilds of east Africa, Zanzibar plants are not only a feast for the eyes, they are true warrior plants. This perennial will thrive just about anywhere, and Zanzibar plant care is minimal making them the ideal choice when you want fuss-free indoor plants.
Benefits Of The Zanzibar Plant
The benefit of plants in the office like the Zanzibar, far outweighs what you would need to put into your Zanzibar gem care. Here are just some of the amazing benefits you can experience when you keep a Zanzibar plant in your office or home.
- Slow growing and easy to maintain – a lot of people think Zancibar plants are artificial because they are so neat and tidy.
- Tolerant of low light and hardy, the Zanzibar plant doesn’t require a lot of watering.
- Along with basic Zanzibar gem plant care, it can also cope with periods of drought.
- Zanzibars are one of the perfect indoor plants for oxygen, and have greater air purifying properties compared to many other species, they can even eliminate particular toxins.
- Fantastic looking and incredibly versatile, the Zanzibar plant can give a space or an ultra modern or even tropical vibe.
- According to Feng Shui it symbolises good luck and is supposed to ensure prosperity, opportunity, and success. Its Mandarin name ‘jin qian shu’ means gold money tree, and it’s often used to provide positive energy in an indoor space. In Vastu Shastra it also is considered lucky and should be positioned in the northeastern direction of a space to bring wealth, success and abundance in life.
How Do You Care For A Zanzibar Plant?
If you’ve ever struggled to keep a plant alive, then the Zanzibar could be the plant for you. No matter how resilient a plant is, you still need to pay some attention to it. Here are our top tips for how to care for a Zanzibar plant.
Optimal Lighting Conditions For Zanzibar Gem Car
Lighting: Zanzibars can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, however, don’t put it in direct sun because it will only end up burning its foliage.
Watering Requirements For Zanzibar Plant Care
Watering: Zanzibars store water which is why they don’t require regular watering. They only need to be watered once a week during summer, and once a month in winter. Alternatively, when you notice that the soil has dried out completely, this is an indication of when you should give it a little drink.
Drainage: Be mindful not to let the Zanzibar plant sit in too much water as it can succumb to root rot. It shouldn’t sit in a saucer or anything that will keep water, it’s better to have it in a pot with plenty of drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature: Zanzibar plants grow best in indoor temperatures between 15’C and 23’C, so keep them away from air conditioning or heating vents.
Humidity: Zanzibars don’t mind warm temperatures with average to high humidity indoors. However, if the indoor air is quite dry, simply give them a misting a couple of times a week.
Related Article: Plants that absorb humidity
Additional Zanzibar Gem Plant Care Tips
Fertilising: You don’t have to fertilise the Zanzibar, but if you want to you can use a simple houseplant fertiliser once or twice during spring (definitely not in autumn and winter).
Cleaning: If the leaves get dusty, just wipe them down with a damp cloth.
Pruning: Zanzibars rarely need their leaves trimmed, just remove any dry or dead leaves when they occur.
Pests: Zanzibars are basically disease free, but they can attract pests such as aphids, fungus gnats, mealybugs, and scale. To treat an infestation, just wipe the leaves with hot water and mild soap.
Bring Your Office To Life With Zanzibar Plant Care
Want to bring some vibrant greenery into your office environment without the hassle? You can’t go past Zanzibar plants – they might even bring you good fortune! If you’re ready to talk about office plants or you’d like some further advice on how to care for a Zanzibar plant, simply contact The Plant Man today, and we’d be happy to help!
