The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in low-light environments. The variegated ZZ plant, with its green and yellow leaves, is an especially attractive option for those looking to add some color to their indoor space. However, if you’ve noticed your variegated ZZ plant’s leaves turning yellow, it can be concerning. Here are some reasons why this might be happening and what you can do about it.
Overwatering is one of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves in ZZ plants. These plants are native to dry regions of Africa and are adapted to survive long periods without water. When they are overwatered, their roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot and other issues that can cause the leaves to turn yellow.
If you suspect overwatering is the culprit, check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels wet, hold off on watering for a few days until the soil dries out slightly. You may also want to consider repotting your ZZ plant in well-draining soil.
While overwatering can cause yellowing leaves, so can underwatering. If you’ve been neglecting your ZZ plant and haven’t watered it in a while, its leaves may start to yellow as a result of dehydration.
To fix this issue, give your ZZ plant a thorough watering and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Going forward, aim to water your ZZ plant every two weeks or so or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Variegated ZZ plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, its leaves may start to turn yellow. This is especially common in the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.
To remedy this issue, move your ZZ plant to a brighter location, such as near a window that gets indirect sunlight. You may also want to consider supplementing your plant’s light with a grow light if it’s not getting enough natural light.
While ZZ plants are relatively pest-resistant, they can still fall victim to common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can cause yellowing leaves as well as other symptoms like webbing or white cottony substances on the plant.
If you suspect pests are causing your ZZ plant’s yellowing leaves, inspect the plant thoroughly and treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. You may need to repeat the treatment a few times to fully eradicate the pests.
Finally, yellowing leaves can be a sign of disease in ZZ plants. The most common diseases affecting ZZ plants are bacterial leaf spot and fungal infections like root rot.
If you suspect disease is causing your ZZ plant’s yellowing leaves, remove any affected foliage and treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide according to the product instructions. You may also want to repot your plant in fresh soil to prevent further infection.
Variegated ZZ plants should be watered every two weeks or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot and yellowing leaves.
Yes! Variegated ZZ plants can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes (thick, tuber-like roots) and planting them in separate pots. Make sure each division has at least one stem and a few healthy roots attached.
Brown tips on ZZ plant leaves are often a sign of low humidity. Try increasing the humidity around your plant by placing a tray of water nearby or using a humidifier.
Yes, but be careful not to over-fertilize. Variegated ZZ plants only need to be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Follow the product instructions for best results.
Yes, ZZ plants are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep them out of reach of children and pets and contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.