Once dismissed as dull, the ZZ plant now a darling of Kenyan homes

With its upright growth, waxy leaves and ability to thrive with minimal care, it is rapidly becoming a favourite among urban plant enthusiasts, interior stylists and even those who thought they could never keep a plant alive.

Native to eastern Africa, the ZZ plant (formally Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a tropical perennial cherished for its thick, waxy, emerald-green leaves and upright stems, which lend it a striking, almost sculptural appearance.

The BDLife spoke with two entrepreneurs —Valary Mdeizi of Plantology Kenya and Carol Dimba Abwoga of LeafyGreen Garden Shop —to understand why the ZZ plant is experiencing this resurgence, and to learn how to care for it.

“I’ve been a plant collector for as long as I can remember,” says Valary. “Even before I opened my shop, my love for plants had already taken deep root —and the ZZ plant was one of the very first in my collection.”

For Valary, it wasn’t just the plant’s glossy leaves or sculptural beauty that stood out, but also its ability to thrive effortlessly.

“ZZs do well even when neglected. They thrive on minimal care. As someone who often juggles multiple responsibilities, that mattered to me. I could forget to water it and still find it looking healthy and upright. That kind of resilience is rare,” she says.

When she finally opened her plant shop, it was clear that this plant had to be featured. “I loved everything about it: Its structure, its shiny leaves and the fact that it requires so little attention. It also tolerates low light, which makes it perfect for many homes in Kenya where indoor sunlight can be limited.”

Carol agrees. “It’s a forgiving plant. You can go two, three or even four weeks without watering it and it will still look lush and healthy. That makes it perfect for busy people or those who are new to plants.”

Carol, who started stocking ZZ plant two years ago, notes that her clients are attracted to the plant's aesthetic simplicity and toughness in equal measure.

“Most people love the plant because it is beautiful and low-maintenance. But I also educate them on how it can adapt to various lighting conditions, although bright, indirect light is ideal,” says Carol.

So, what does it take to keep a ZZ plant thriving?

“Let the soil dry out three-quarters of the way before watering again,” advises Valary. “The plant has rhizomes that store water, and its thick, waxy leaves prevent water loss, so it can go a long time without watering.”

Carol emphasises the importance of using the right kind of pot. “People love ZZ plants for their indoor styling, but they sometimes forget about drainage. You need a pot with holes in the bottom and well-draining soil; otherwise, the plant will rot from the roots up.”

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Both women agree on lighting – ZZ plants prefer bright, indirect light, but they can tolerate low light too. However, neither of them recommends placing the plants in total darkness. “A little natural light goes a long way,” says  Valary.

How can you tell if you’re overwatering? “Look for yellowing leaves, but not the older, lower ones, rather the newer ones,” tips Valary “A bending stem near the base or a mushy, foul-smelling root ball are also warning signs of root rot.”

At Plantology Kenya, she stocks both the classic green ZZ and the more dramatic ZZ Raven —a variety that is almost black and adds instant elegance to any space.

“Our clients are diverse,” she explains. “We cater to complete beginners, collectors, and even those who claim not to have a green thumb. The ZZ works for everyone.”

“People want plants that look good but don’t cause them stress. When they see how effortlessly the ZZ survives, they come back for more,” says Carol.

At LeafyGreen, prices range from Sh1,000 to Sh4,000 depending on the size of the plant. “It takes about a year or more for a propagated ZZ to grow to market size,” Carol explains. “It’s a slow grower, but it’s worth the wait.”

Valary's prices start at around Sh1,000 and can go up to Sh2,500 for larger or rarer varieties. “The biggest cost is time. These aren’t plants you can rush.”

Common myths and mistakes:

“ZZ plants don’t need water.” This isn't true. They do need water, just not very often. Many people neglect to check for months, which can lead to dehydration and cause the leaves to shrivel.

“Touch the soil. If it's still wet more than two days after watering, you might be overwatering,” advises Carol.

ZZ plants can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings and rhizome division. While they don’t grow quickly, patience pays off. “From a juvenile plant, it might take one and a half to two years to reach a decent size, depending on care and conditions,” says Valary.

For her, helping clients select the right pot or styling option is a creative collaboration. “We ask them to share their vision for their space, then recommend pots or setups that complement their interior design. We want the plant to look like it belongs.”

Carol mentions that many customers choose ZZ plants because of their stylish and versatile nature. “They suit both modern and rustic interiors. Their upright growth means they don’t take up too much space,” she says.

“People love using ZZ plants to decorate Airbnb rooms as they create a calm, tropical vibe that looks polished. And you don’t have to worry about guests forgetting to water them,” she points out.

Although ZZ plants are primarily grown indoors, they can survive outdoors if placed in the shade.

Carol has tested this. “It did fine on a shaded balcony with no direct sunlight. But once it got too hot or sunny, the leaves started to turn yellow. It's an indoor plant first and foremost,” she says.

ZZ plants are mildly toxic if ingested. “Keep them away from pets or small children who might chew on the leaves,” Valaryadvises. “It’s not fatal, but it can cause irritation.”

While some people consider ZZ plants to be too common or plain, both women disagree.

“They’re not common here in Kenya — at least not yet,” says Valary. “But more than that, I think it's all about perspective. One person’s ‘basic’ is another’s ‘beautiful’. Once people learn how easy it is to care for it and how it thrives in tough conditions, they fall in love with it.”

If you're looking for a plant that won’t die easily, matches any décor, and improves your mood and space quietly, then yes — the ZZ plant is everything it's cracked up to be.

It’s not just a plant; it’s a silent roommate, a living piece of sculpture and a reliable green companion. ‘I’ve had mine for years,” says Valary. “And every time someone walks into my house, it’s the first thing they notice. It just glows.”

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