Zamioculcas zamiifolia, also known as the lucky feather, is an impressive houseplant that grows up to 150 centimeters high. The plant, which comes from the African tropics, is considered extremely undemanding and forgives almost all care mistakes. Whether you often forget to water or fertilize, don't repot the plant or keep it too dark: the lucky feather will still thrive. The only thing that needs to be avoided is waterlogging.
How to properly care for a Zamioculcas plant?
For optimal Zamioculcas care, place the plant in a partially shaded location, water it moderately when the surface is dry, fertilize it every four weeks and repot it every two to three years. Make sure there is sufficient humidity and avoid waterlogging.
Which location is optimal for Zamioculcas?
Basically, Zamioculcas copes well with any location as long as the plant does not have to be in the hot midday sun. A partially shaded spot with morning or evening sun is best. The brighter the lucky feather is, the brighter its leaves become and the faster it grows.
In which substrate does the lucky feather feel particularly comfortable
Pott your Zamioculcas in either palm or compost soil.
What temperature should prevail at the location?
As it is a tropical plant, the temperature should not be less than 16°C. In summer, temperatures of around 20 °C are optimal, although the Zamioculcas can also be placed on the balcony or terrace at this time of year and in dry weather. In winter, the room temperature should be slightly lower to give the plant a break.
How often should you water Zamioculcas?
Zamioculcas should be kept evenly moist. Always water when the top layer of substrate has dried, but only water moderately. The plant does not get waterlogged at all. Less water is needed in winter.
When and with what is Zamioculcas fertilized?
Fertilize your “Zamie” about every four weeks with a liquid green plant fertilizer, unless you have just repotted the plant into fresh substrate. Then wait six to eight weeks before fertilizing for the first time. In winter, a supply of nutrients is not necessary.
How often is the lucky feather repotted?
Depending on its growth rate, Zamioculcas should be repotted every two to three years. You can tell when the time is right for this measure when the rhizomes grow out of the pot. When potting, use wide rather than deep planters, as the roots tend to be wide.
Can Zamioculcas be propagated yourself?
Zamioculcas can be propagated very well by leaf cuttings and, when repotting, by division.
Which diseases and pests should you pay particular attention to?
If the air in the room is very dry and warm, it can happen that the lucky feather is attacked by pests such as the red spider or spider mites. Therefore, make sure there is sufficient air humidity, for example through frequent ventilation and occasional spraying with water. However, if the leaves of the plant turn yellow, it is too wet and there is a risk of rotting. Repot the lucky feather in fresh substrate, ensure good drainage and water less.
Can you cut back Zamioculcas occasionally?
Pruning is absolutely not recommended. If the Zamioculcas becomes too large over time, it is recommended to divide it instead.
Tip
Zamioculcas zamiifolia belongs to the arum family and as such is slightly poisonous.