Many people know that plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which is the process of converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. However, not all plants produce the same amount of oxygen. One plant that has gained popularity in recent years for its beauty and air-purifying properties is the variegated ZZ plant. This article will explore how much oxygen the variegated ZZ plant produces and its benefits to indoor air quality.
The variegated ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’, is a tropical plant native to Africa’s dry grasslands. It is a member of the Araceae family and is related to other popular houseplants such as the peace lily and philodendron. The variegated ZZ plant has attractive, glossy leaves that are green with white or yellow stripes. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and thrives in low light conditions, making it an excellent choice for indoor gardening.
Like other plants, the variegated ZZ plant produces oxygen through photosynthesis. However, its oxygen-producing abilities are not as impressive as some other plants. According to a study by NASA, the variegated ZZ plant produces 0.0046 moles of oxygen per hour per gram of tissue. To put this into perspective, a medium-sized tree can produce up to 100 times more oxygen than the variegated ZZ plant.
While the variegated ZZ plant may not produce a significant amount of oxygen, it still has other benefits for indoor air quality. The plant can remove harmful toxins from the air and increase humidity levels, making it easier to breathe.
The variegated ZZ plant has several benefits for indoor air quality, including:
Removes toxins: The variegated ZZ plant can remove harmful toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and xylene from the air. These toxins are commonly found in household products such as cleaning agents, paints, and adhesives.
Increases humidity: The variegated ZZ plant releases moisture into the air, increasing humidity levels in the room. This can help to prevent dry skin, nosebleeds, and respiratory problems.
Easy to care for: The variegated ZZ plant is a hardy plant that can survive in low light conditions and with minimal watering. It is an excellent choice for those who are new to gardening or do not have much time to care for plants.
The variegated ZZ plant is an easy plant to care for, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your variegated ZZ plant:
Watering: The variegated ZZ plant prefers well-draining soil and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Lighting: The variegated ZZ plant thrives in low to medium light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Temperature: The variegated ZZ plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and does not tolerate extreme temperature changes.
Fertilizing: The variegated ZZ plant does not require frequent fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once every six months during the growing season.
A: Yes, the variegated ZZ plant can remove harmful toxins from the air and increase humidity levels.
A: Water your variegated ZZ plant when the soil has completely dried out. This usually occurs every two to three weeks.
A: Yes, the variegated ZZ plant thrives in low to medium light conditions and can survive in low light conditions.
A: No, the variegated ZZ plant produces a minimal amount of oxygen compared to other plants. However, it still has other benefits for indoor air quality.