ZZ Plant Zamioculcas zamiifolia Raven = 'Dowon' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Zamioculcas zamiifolia Raven, commonly known as the ZZ Raven, is a striking variety of the ZZ plant known for its distinctive, near-black foliage. The plant exhibits a glossy and waxy finish on its leaves, which adds to its overall lush appearance. The foliage emerges as a bright lime green color initially and gradually transitions to a rich, dark purple-black hue as it matures, creating a dramatic contrast against the lighter new growth. The leaves are smooth and pinnate, with a feather-like arrangement of leaflets along the central stem. Each leaflet is plump and fleshy, indicative of the plant's drought-resistant nature, while the stems are thick and upright, providing a sturdy structure for the foliage. Unlike the common green variety of the ZZ plant, the Raven's deep tones provide a unique visual interest, making it a popular choice for interior spaces that benefit from its dark and bold appearance. Overall, the ZZ Raven has a sleek and modern aesthetic, creating an attractive feature in homes and offices.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
ZZ Plant, Zanzibar Gem, Aroid Palm, Eternity Plant, Emerald Palm, Raven ZZ
Common names
Zamioculcas zamiifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
The ZZ plant, including the Raven variety, contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic to humans. If any part of the plant is ingested, it can cause irritation of the mouth, tongue, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, drooling, nausea, and vomiting. It's essential to keep this plant out of reach of children who may accidentally ingest it.
To pets
The ZZ plant is toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. If a pet chews or ingests any part of the plant, it may experience oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Pet owners should take care to prevent their pets from accessing this plant to avoid these adverse health effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Black
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care and can survive with infrequent watering and low light conditions.
- Drought Tolerant: Can endure extended periods without water, making it an ideal choice for busy or forgetful owners.
- Long Lifespan: Known to be a long-lasting plant that can thrive for many years with proper care.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Features dark, glossy leaves that can add a touch of elegance to interior spaces.
- Non-Toxic to Pets: Recognized as safe for pets, posing no serious harm if accidentally ingested.
- Adaptable: Can thrive in a range of indoor environments, from office spaces to homes.
- Resilient: Highly resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The striking dark foliage of the ZZ Raven offers a unique backdrop or focal point for photographers, especially those looking to create contrast in plant-based or greenery-driven photo shoots.
- Educational Tool: Botany and horticulture educators can use the ZZ Raven to demonstrate plant mutations and cultivar development, as its dark leaves are a result of selective breeding.
- Art Inspiration: Artists may find the distinctive appearance of the ZZ Raven a source of inspiration for paintings, drawings, and other forms of art, especially those exploring themes of nature and plant life.
- Themed Events: Event planners might use the ZZ Raven as part of gothic or dark-themed decor, providing an elegant and mysterious vibe to weddings, parties, or Halloween events.
- Psychological Studies: Psychologists could use the ZZ Raven to study the impact of plant color on mood and emotion, as its unusual black leaves might evoke different feelings compared to typical green plants.
- Fashion Design: Fashion designers could incorporate the look or concept of the ZZ Raven into clothing patterns or jewelry, using its dark color and leaf shape as elements of design.
- Interior Design: The ZZ Raven is well-suited for modern and minimalist interior designs, where its dark, sleek look can complement a monochromatic color scheme or add a dramatic touch.
- Plant Collecting: As a collector's plant, the ZZ Raven appeals to enthusiasts looking to expand their collection with unique and rare specimens.
- Conceptual Gardens: Garden designers can incorporate the ZZ Raven into conceptual gardens that play on color themes, such as a 'moonlit' or 'noir' garden, where the plant can contribute to the overall aesthetic.
- Cinematic and Theatrical Sets: Set designers might use the ZZ Raven to create moody or exotic environments for film, television, or stage productions, taking advantage of its unusual appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe ZZ plant is believed to bring good fortune and positive energy into a space. According to Feng Shui principles, it should be placed in areas associated with wealth, such as the southeast corner of a home or office, to enhance prosperity. Its upwards growing leaves are thought to promote the movement of positive chi, thereby attracting financial success to those dwelling in the space. Additionally, due to its hardy nature and ability to purify air, the ZZ plant contributes to a healthy and harmonious environment, which is a fundamental aspect of Feng Shui.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe ZZ plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The ZZ plant, including the Raven cultivar, is known for its ability to withstand neglect and unfavorable conditions, symbolizing resilience and the ability to overcome challenges.
- Prosperity: Often regarded as a good luck charm in the home or office, the ZZ plant is thought to bring prosperity and promote economic growth.
- Health: Due to its air-purifying qualities, the ZZ plant is associated with promoting better health and wellbeing by removing toxins from the surrounding environment.
- Longevity: The plant's durability and slow-growing nature represent longevity, implying a long life filled with endurance.
- Steadiness: The sturdy and upright growth of the ZZ plant suggests steadiness and reliability, making it a symbol of stability.
WaterZZ plants, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, are drought-tolerant and prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. To water properly, give the plant a thorough soak until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot, which typically means around 8-12 ounces for smaller pots or up to 1-2 gallons for larger containers depending on the size. Allow the potting mix to completely dry out, which may take about 2-3 weeks, before rewatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's better to err on the side of underwatering with ZZ plants.
LightThe ZZ plant thrives in low to bright indirect light and should be placed in a spot where it can receive such lighting. It can tolerate some degree of direct sunlight, but harsh afternoon rays should be avoided to prevent leaf scorching. A north-facing window or a position within a room that receives filtered light is ideal for this plant.
TemperatureThe ZZ plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F for optimal growth, but can survive in temperatures as low as 45°F and as high as 90°F. It is not frost-tolerant, so it's important to protect it from temperatures that drop below 45°F. The ideal indoor temperature range makes it a suitable houseplant for most climates.
PruningZZ plants seldom need pruning, but occasionally you may want to trim away any yellowed or dead leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage healthy growth. The best time for pruning is in the spring when the plant is entering a new growth phase. Light pruning can be done any time of year as needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ZZ Plant Raven thrives in a well-draining potting mix made of 50% peat, 30% perlite, and 20% organic compost. The ideal soil pH should range between 6.0 and 7.0 to promote healthy growth.
RepottingThe ZZ Plant Raven should be repotted every 18-24 months or when it becomes root-bound. Larger pots and fresh soil help support the plant's growth.
Humidity & MistingThe ZZ Plant Raven prefers average indoor humidity levels, around 40-50%. It can tolerate lower humidity but thrives when there's some moisture in the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place ZZ Plant Raven in low to bright indirect light and water sparingly.
Outdoor
Grow ZZ Plant Raven in shade to partial sun, protect from full sun.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleZamioculcas zamiifolia Raven, commonly known as ZZ Plant 'Raven', begins its life cycle when a seed germinates or a leaf cutting takes root in soil. After establishing a root system, the plant develops rhizomes, which store water and nutrients, enabling it to tolerate periods of drought. As it matures, the ZZ Plant 'Raven' produces upright stems with glossy, dark green to black leaflets that are distinctive of the 'Raven' cultivar. The plant continues to grow by producing new stems and leaves, slowly increasing in size and may take several years to reach its full mature size. It rarely flowers indoors, but when it does, it produces spadix inflorescences similar to those of peace lilies, though they are often hidden among the bases of the leaves. Once it reaches maturity, the ZZ Plant 'Raven' requires minimal care, growing steadily and can live for many years with proper care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Zamioculcas zamiifolia Raven, commonly known as ZZ Raven, is by division. This process is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one stem and a healthy root system. Each division can then be planted in a separate pot with well-draining potting mix. It's important to water the new plants sparingly at first, allowing the soil to dry out between watering to avoid rot. With proper care, these divisions will grow into new ZZ Raven plants, maintaining the striking dark foliage that makes this cultivar unique.
