Plant Encyclopedia
Raven ZZ (Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven') plant care guide
beginnerhouseplant

Raven ZZ Care Guide

Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven'

Also known as: Raven ZZ, Black ZZ

Watering

Summer

Every 17 days

Winter

Every 21 days

Let the top 2-3cm of soil dry out before watering. Stick your finger in - if it feels dry, water.

Light

Low light tolerant

Further from windows, shaded corners. Will survive, not thrive.

Humidity

20-40%

Thrives in dry air. No misting needed.

Pet & Child Safety

Mildly toxic - may cause irritation

Harmful to: cats, dogs, children

Pot & Soil

Very happy being rootbound. Well-draining potting mix - treat same as regular ZZ.

Pot-size watering

The 17-21 day range is a starting point. A 5cm pot dries quickly, but the soil should still reach its proper dry-down before watering. A 22cm pot can hold moisture deep inside even when the top looks dry.

Prefers snug roots

This plant usually prefers a snug root zone. Size up only when roots are circling, the plant dries out much faster than usual, or growth has clearly stalled.

Soil refresh

Refresh gritty mix when drainage slows, salts crust on the surface, or the potting mix collapses - usually every 18-24 months for stable plants.

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Good to Know

Dramatic near-black foliage. Same easy care as regular ZZ.

Frequently asked

How often should I water Raven ZZ?

Every 17 days in summer and every 21 days in winter is the reference range. The 17-21 day range is a starting point. A 5cm pot dries quickly, but the soil should still reach its proper dry-down before watering. A 22cm pot can hold moisture deep inside even when the top looks dry. Let the top 2-3cm of soil dry out before watering. Stick your finger in - if it feels dry, water.

What light does Raven ZZ need?

Low light tolerant. Further from windows, shaded corners. Will survive, not thrive..

Is Raven ZZ safe for pets and children?

Mildly toxic - may cause irritation if chewed. Keep out of reach of curious pets and small children.

What humidity does Raven ZZ prefer?

20-40%. Thrives in dry air - no misting needed.

What soil and pot does Raven ZZ need?

Very happy being rootbound. Well-draining potting mix - treat same as regular ZZ. This plant usually prefers a snug root zone. Size up only when roots are circling, the plant dries out much faster than usual, or growth has clearly stalled. Refresh gritty mix when drainage slows, salts crust on the surface, or the potting mix collapses - usually every 18-24 months for stable plants.

Is Raven ZZ beginner-friendly?

Yes - Raven ZZ is a houseplant well-suited to beginners.

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