ZZ plants, scientifically known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, are popular houseplants due to their ability to withstand low light conditions. While they do not require direct sunlight, they still need some amount of light to thrive. ZZ plants actually grow best in indirect light, as direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch and turn yellow.
In terms of indoor placement, ZZ plants do well in areas with lots of indirect light. This means placing them near windows that receive filtered light or in rooms with bright, indirect light. They can tolerate low light conditions, such as those found in offices or commercial buildings with fluorescent lighting. I personally have a ZZ plant in my office, and it has been thriving under the fluorescent lights for years.
If you live in zones 10 to 12, which have a warm climate, you can also grow ZZ plants outside. However, it is important to provide filtered light for them. This can be achieved by placing them under the shade of larger trees or in areas that receive indirect sunlight. I have seen ZZ plants growing beautifully in outdoor gardens with filtered light, where they add a touch of tropical beauty to the landscape.
When it comes to the type of light, ZZ plants are not picky. They can tolerate both natural and artificial light. This makes them versatile and suitable for a variety of indoor environments. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can still keep a ZZ plant healthy by providing it with artificial light. Just make sure to avoid placing them too close to intense sources of light, as this can lead to leaf burn.
To summarize, ZZ plants do need light to grow, but they thrive best in indirect light. They can tolerate low light conditions and even fluorescent lighting in indoor spaces. In outdoor gardens, they can be grown in zones 10 to 12, as long as they receive filtered light. Whether it’s natural or artificial, providing a good amount of indirect light will keep your ZZ plant happy and thriving.
