ZZ Black

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’

• Common Names: ZZ Black, Raven ZZ Plant, Black ZZ Plant

• Family: Araceae

• Type: Evergreen perennial houseplant

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: Eastern Africa, primarily Zanzibar, Kenya, and Tanzania

• The ‘Raven’ cultivar was first discovered in South Korea and introduced globally as a rare ornamental variety.

• Gained popularity worldwide due to its unique black foliage and resilience.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall indoors, with an equal spread.

• Leaves: Glossy, waxy leaves that start bright green and mature into a dramatic deep purple-black.

• Stems: Thick, upright, and fleshy stems store water, making it drought-tolerant.

• Flowers: Rarely blooms indoors; when it does, produces small, spadix-type cream-colored flowers at the base.

• Overall Appearance: Modern, elegant, and sculptural – ideal for minimalist or luxury interiors.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light; avoids direct harsh sunlight.

• Soil: Prefers well-draining potting mix with sand or perlite.

• Watering: Requires infrequent watering; allow soil to dry between watering.

• Temperature: Thrives between 18–26°C (65–80°F).

• Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; trim yellow or damaged leaves.

• Fertilization: Light feeding once or twice during the growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Pests/Diseases: Resistant to most pests; may occasionally attract mealybugs or spider mites.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by leaf cuttings, division, or stem cuttings.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Air Purification: Known to filter indoor air pollutants and improve air quality.

• Decorative Value: Popular in modern offices, living rooms, and hotels due to its striking black leaves.

• Low-Maintenance Plant: Perfect for busy lifestyles; thrives on neglect.

• Symbolism: Often associated with prosperity, endurance, and strength in Feng Shui.

7. Lifespan

• Very long-lived as a houseplant, with proper care surviving 15+ years indoors.