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ZZ plants have been around for many years. During that time, they’ve become one of the most popular indoor plants.
That’s because these florae are exceptionally resilient. They can go for weeks without any water or attention from their owner.
On top of that, these plants come in many shapes and sizes, with all sorts of stunning foliage. Because of that, you should be able to find one that perfectly complements your space.
Yet, with so many options on the market, it can take some work to choose just one. So, if you’re interested in ZZ plant types, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the most popular varieties of the plants. I’ll also cover what makes each one special.
ZZ Plants Overview
ZZ, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia plants, are a flowering species in the Araceae family. They’re tropical florae that are native to several areas around the globe.
That includes Southern Kenya and Northeastern South Africa.
Moving on, ZZ plants are incredibly popular all over the world for several reasons. For starters, they’re ornamental.
Since they have stunning, shiny leaves, the plants can spruce up any indoor space.
Other than that, ZZ plants are low maintenance. You won’t have to water or fertilize the florae often to keep them healthy.
That’s because they can grow structures called rhizomes. These are fleshy, swollen roots that can store water and minerals for future use.
Besides that, ZZ plants do have some medicinal properties. People use them to treat stomach aches and reduce inflammation.
Finally, the florae can help with air purification. A study showed that ZZ plants had the ability to remove volatile gases from the air.
This includes:
- Benzene
- Toluene
- Ethylbenzene
- Xylene
How Many Types of ZZ Plants Are There?
There are many types of ZZ plants out in the world. From ones with variegated leaves to others that feature foliage with bright colors.
However, because of hybridization, it’s tough to find out exactly how many varieties there are.
Types of ZZ Plants
Now, with the basics of ZZ plants out of the way, I can move on to the varieties. In this section, I’ll discuss some of the most popular types of these florae.
1 – ZZ Jungle Warrior
The first type on my list is the ZZ Jungle Warrior. Just like the name suggests, this variety is tough as nails and can survive in almost any environment.
Because of that, they’re the perfect plants for beginner gardeners.
Aside from that, Jungle Warriors have deep, dark foliage. The leaves start out a murky shade of green when they first sprout.
Then, as time goes on, they’ll turn a rich purple shade.
2 – ZZ Raven
There are few plants that are as special as ZZ Ravens. This is because these florae have black leaves.
The foliage starts out as green, yet it darkens as the plants mature. That’s where the name Raven comes from.
On top of that, the leaves have a shiny gloss to them. Not only will this sheen catch the eye, but it’ll also ensure the plants can survive in direct sunlight.
Lastly, some people also refer to the plants as the Dark Beauty.
3 – Emerald Palm
Emerald Palms are arguably the most common type of ZZ plants. These florae come with bright green, oval leaves, and exceptionally long stems.
So, if you’re looking for a pop of color in your space, Emerald Palms may be the way to go.
Besides that, these plants are easy to care for. All you have to do is water them a few times a month and they should stay healthy for years.
4 – Dwarf Zamicro
Most ZZ plants are relatively large. They grow sizable leaves and long stems.
Yet, the Dwarf Zamicro breaks this stereotype. Instead, these plants have short, fleshy stems that reach about three to five inches in height.
Other than that, Dwarf Zamicros feature elongated, ovate leaves. The foliage starts out as a forest green shade, then gets darker as the plants mature.
Because of their short stature, these plants are perfect for small offices.
5 – Variegated ZZ Plant
Typically, when you buy a ZZ plant, all the leaves will be the same shade. Yet, that’s not the case with the variegated variety.
These florae boast foliage with many colors. The shades can include:
- Yellow-green
- White
- Yellow
- Pale Green
- Emerald green
This creates a magical display that can brighten up any room. Yet, this rainbow of colors means the plants don’t have as much chlorophyll.
So, they won’t be as efficient at photosynthesis as other varieties. Because of that, you’ll need to find a spot that gets plenty of sunshine.
6 – Zenzi
Zenzis are similar to Dwarf Zamicros, since they’re both on the shorter side. Yet, there are a few differences.
For starters, Zenzis have brighter leaves. The foliage is a vibrant, almost neon shade of green.
Besides that, Zenzis come with broader leaves. Because of that, the foliage always looks full and dense.
That means you’ll be able to pack a lot of leaves in a small area.
7 – ZZ White Variegata
If you want a ZZ plant with an exotic twist, the White Variegata may be for you. These plants have white leaves with tiny green spots on the surface.
This makes for an unusual display of pale foliage. The dainty leaves are also shiny, which makes them stand out in any space.
Besides that, White Variegata can come in a few other shades. That includes silver, cream, or gray.
Yet, these hues are difficult to come by. You may need to special order them from a florist.
Plus, they’ll be on the more expensive side.
8 – ZZ Lucky
ZZ Luckys resemble the common Emerald Palm variety. Yet, there are a couple of major distinctions.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice that ZZ Luckys have broader leaves. The foliage is rounder, with a tapered end.
Aside from that, their leaves are much darker. Instead of an emerald green shade, they come in a deep, forest green.
9 – Dark Zamicro
The Dark Zamicro is a cross between ZZ Ravens and Dwarf Zamicros. This results in a small plant with black leaves.
Since it’s an unusual shade for florae, the dark foliage can be quite stunning. It’s a great way to add a subtle pop of color, without overwhelming your space.
10 – Chameleon ZZ Plant
When a Chameleon ZZ plant first sprouts leaves, they’re a pale shade of yellow. Yet, as the flora matures, the foliage will turn into a vibrant green color.
This hue change happens over a few weeks and it’s quite a remarkable sight. It looks like the leaves are changing for fall but in reverse.
That’s why we call these plants Chameleons. They’re able to change color to disappear into their environment.
11 – Supernova ZZ Plant
Supernova plants are another type with green leaves that turn black as the florae mature. Yet, they’re not like the other plants on the list.
That’s because they have specific growing conditions. For starters, Supernovas don’t like direct sunlight.
They need partial shade to grow healthy. Other than that, you shouldn’t water these plants more than once or twice a month.
Otherwise, you risk the plants developing root rot.
12 – Akebono ZZ Plant
If you’re looking for ZZ plants with colored foliage, the Akebono is the best way to go. These florae have pale, pinkish foliage, with golden undertones.
That makes them one of the most unique varieties on the list.
Besides that, Akebonos are usually on the larger side. They grow long stems and dense foliage.
13 – Albino ZZ Plant
Albino ZZ plants are similar to the White Variegata. Both plants have white, oval leaves.
Yet, Albino foliage doesn’t feature any green spots. Instead, the leaves are a solid white or pale yellow.
On top of that, the plants can grow to about two to three feet tall. So, no matter where you place them, they’ll stand out and shine.
14 – Bitkisi ZZ Plant
At first glance, Bitkisi ZZ plants resemble Emerald Palms. Although, when you examine the florae closely, you’ll notice the leaves have red streaks.
The intensity of the crimson will change depending on your plant. Yet, no matter how bright it is, it’ll still make for an exciting table centerpiece.
Final Thoughts
There are countless ZZ plant types all over the world. Yet, because of hybridization, it’s difficult to say how many varieties are out there.
Although, there are a few types that are incredibly common. These include ZZ Jungle Warriors, ZZ Ravens, and Emerald Palms.
Other than that, there are Dwarf Zamicros, Zenzis, and Supernova ZZ plants.
Lisa Bridenstine
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.
