10 Best Low Light Indoor Plants for Living Rooms: Expert Guide

2. ZZ Plant: The Practically Indestructible Houseplant

After years of growing houseplants, I can confidently say that the ZZ plant is the closest thing to a “set it and forget it” plant you’ll ever find. I once left mine in my office during a three-month sabbatical, and it looked better when I returned than when I left!

Natural Habitat and Low-Light Superpowers

Originally from Eastern Africa, these resilient plants have evolved to thrive in conditions that would make other plants throw in the towel. The Zamioculcas zamiifolia grows naturally in areas with long dry spells and varying light conditions. It’s fascinating how this plant adapted to store water in its thick rhizomes – those potato-like structures under the soil that are key to its survival.

Growth Patterns and Size Expectations

Let me tell you about my experience with ZZ plant growth – it’s definitely a “slow and steady wins the race” situation. Mine took about three years to reach its current height of 2.5 feet, which is pretty typical. The plant grows in cycles, sending up new stems with glossy leaflets that unfurl like little emerald fans.

What I’ve noticed:

• New stems emerge dark burgundy colored
• They gradually turn deep green as they mature
• Most ZZs reach 2-3 feet tall indoors
• Growth slows significantly in winter
• Each new shoot can take 2-3 weeks to fully unfurl

The Art of Not Overwatering

If there’s one thing I’ve learned the hard way about ZZ plants, it’s that they absolutely hate wet feet. I now follow what I call the “forgotten plant watering schedule” – basically, I water it when I suddenly remember it exists, which ends up being about once every 3-4 weeks.

My moisture meter rarely comes out for this plant, but when it does, I follow this rule: Only water when the soil is completely dry at least 2 inches deep. In winter, I’ve gone up to six weeks between waterings with no issues!

Propagation: Patience is Key

Want to know the secret to successful ZZ plant propagation? Time. Lots of it. I’ve tried every method out there, and here’s what works best:

• Rhizome division: The fastest method, taking 2-3 months for new growth
• Leaf cuttings: Takes forever (6-8 months) but super satisfying
• Stem cuttings: The middle ground, showing roots in about 4 months

My favorite propagation trick is starting them in LECA (lightweight expanded clay aggregate) – it lets you watch the roots develop!

Pet Safety and Placement Tips

Here’s something crucial that not everyone talks about: ZZ plants contain calcium oxalate crystals. While they’re not deadly, they can cause irritation if ingested. I keep mine on high shelves away from my curious cat, who thankfully shows zero interest in it.

The best spots I’ve found for ZZ plants:

• Dark corners that need life
• North-facing windowsills
• Office desks with fluorescent lighting
• Bathroom counters (they love humidity!)

Speaking of plants that thrive in challenging conditions, wait until you hear about the Chinese Evergreen coming up next! If you think the ZZ plant is easy, wait until you discover how this beautiful plant can transform those tricky low-light spots while adding some gorgeous color variations to your space. Trust me, your plant collection isn’t complete without this next stunner!

Looking to add even more color to your low-light space? Click through to learn about Chinese Evergreens – I’ve got some exciting tips about rare varieties that most plant guides never mention!