Raven ZZ Plant, Black Zamioculcas
Zamioculcas zamiifolia “Raven” differs from the wild type native to East Africa due to its dark, almost black leaves. Incidentally, young leaves are still green; it is only as they age that they become progressively darker.
Light & Temperature
The Raven ZZ Plant is suitable for sunny to partially shaded locations and, after acclimatization, can tolerate the hot summer sun.
It will do well at room temperature throughout the year and overwintering is possible at around 59 °F (15 °C).
Temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) are tolerated only briefly.
Soil & Watering
Zamioculcas zamiifolia “Raven” does not have specific soil requirements. It does well in standard mixtures for indoor plants, container plants, herbs, or cacti.
More important than the substrate is how the Black Zamioculcas is watered. It has succulent characteristics and stores water in its thick roots, rhizomes, stems and leaves.
The root ball should be allowed to dry out or nearly dry out between waterings. Waterlogged conditions are not tolerated. However, water standing in the saucer for a few hours during hot summer weeks is not considered waterlogged.
Fertilization
For the first year after purchase or repotting, Zamioculcas zamiifolia “Raven” does not require fertilization as most substrates come pre-fertilized.
Subsequently, from spring to fall, liquid fertilizers for foliage plants, flowering plants or succulents can be applied. Either on a monthly basis or at a lower concentration every two weeks.
Long-term fertilizers such as sticks, granules and pellets are also suitable and can be incorporated into the soil in spring and/or summer.
