Zamioculcas zamiifolia, Caladium zamiaefolium, Zamioculcas lanceolata, Zamioculcas loddigesii

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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It is native to the southern parts of Eastern Africa (Tanzania, Zanzibar).

Zamioculcas zamiifolia (Aroid Palm) is a small shrub which grows 2-5 ft in height and is native to Tanzania, Zanzibar and other parts of eastern Africa. With its ornamental foliage and shiny elliptical leaves, growing in an upright clustering pattern, this resilient plant is relatively easy to care for, surviving low-water and low-light conditions while also doing well in semi-shade. It is an excellent houseplant, but can also do well in seaside gardens and other outdoor areas in warmer climates of USDA Zone 9-11.

Zamioculcas can be very salt-tolerant in plants, making it an attractive choice for outdoor planters along the coasts. It has a reputation of being able to withstand a certain degree of neglect, this time not for watering, but for root-pruning and repotting every few years. Watering should be done sparingly; if you water it too often, the lower leaves may turn yellow.

When growing Zamioculcas in a pot, you should choose a spot in full sunshine or partial shade, keeping in mind that plants that are grown in full sun will require more water than those grown in the shade. In colder regions where freezing temperatures are experienced during the winter, the pot should be moved to a warm spot and watched for any signs of leaf discoloration. A fertilizer should be used at most once or twice a year a few weeks prior to growth starting in spring. With its extraordinary strengths and an unusual appearance, Zamioculcas zamiifolia is a fantastic specimen to have in any home.

Similar plants:

• Caladium bicolor (Caladium, Fancy Leaved Caladium)
• Caladium lindenii, Xanthosoma lindenii Magnifica (Angel's Wing)
• Caladium praetermissum, Alocasia 'Hilo Beauty', Colocasia 'Hilo Beauty' (Camouflage Alocasia, Hilo Beauty)
• Caladium steudneriifolium (Caladium)