The variegated ZZ plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven,’ is a tropical perennial plant that is native to Eastern Africa. It is a member of the Araceae family, which includes 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 grows in a similar manner to its non-variegated counterpart, with thick, upright stems and fleshy, oval-shaped leaves. The variegated ZZ plant can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, making it an excellent choice for larger indoor spaces.
The ZZ plant has been cultivated in China for over 1,000 years and was brought to Europe in the late 18th century. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the ZZ plant gained popularity in the United States as a low-maintenance houseplant. Since then, breeders have developed variations of the ZZ plant, including the variegated variety.
The variegated ZZ plant is a result of selective breeding to create a plant with unique coloring. The process involved choosing plants with desirable traits, such as vibrant foliage, and then breeding them together to produce offspring with those traits. Over time, growers were able to develop the variegated ZZ plant by selecting plants with white or yellow stripes on their leaves.
The variegated ZZ plant is a hardy and low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in most environments. Here are some care tips to keep your variegated ZZ plant healthy:
Like any houseplant, the variegated ZZ plant can experience a few common problems:
Q. How often should I water my variegated ZZ plant?
A. Water your variegated ZZ plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Depending on the environment, this could be anywhere from once a week to once every two weeks.
Q. Can I propagate my variegated ZZ plant?
A. Yes, you can propagate your variegated ZZ plant through stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem with at least one leaf and place it in water until roots develop. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into soil.
Q. Should I fertilize my variegated ZZ plant?
A. Yes, you should fertilize your variegated ZZ plant every two to three months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q. Is the variegated ZZ plant toxic to pets?
A. Yes, the variegated ZZ plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets or children.
In conclusion, the variegated ZZ plant is a stunning and low-maintenance houseplant that can add a touch of tropical beauty to any indoor space. With proper care and attention, your variegated ZZ plant can thrive for years to come.