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Zamioculcas zamiifolia

fern arum

an evergreen, rhizomatous perennial. The smooth, shiny leaves, 40-60cm long, arise directly from the ground, and have six to eight pairs of leaflets. One or two green and white, arum-like flowers may appear among the leaf bases in summer, followed by white berries

Other common names
Zanzibar gem
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Araceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Zamioculcas are evergreen perennials, becoming deciduous if they dry out. They have large, water-storing rhizomes and shiny leaves divided into pairs of leaflets

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E Tropical Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow as an indoor plant in well-drained compost with indirect light to full shade. Tolerant of neglect

Propagation

Propagate by leaf cuttings, using single leaflets

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
Pruning

No pruning required. Remove faded leaves and flowers at soil level

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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