Zanzibar Gem

Although these striking Zanzibar (Zamiculcas zamiifolia) plants come from hotter climes they make a surprisingly easy-going house plant in the UK.

All plants need light, but these plants will thrive even in quite low light – most rooms in the house will be suitable. It is happy at a normal room temperature but keep it out of very bright direct sunlight. A bathroom or kitchen would be ideal.

In the spring and summer when the plant is growing it will need to be watered regularly, but in the winter when the plant it is important to keep them on the dry side and only water when the top of the soil is bone dry. If you can, use rainwater or filtered water when watering and you might like to feed it every month with ordinary houseplant food to help it grow and to keep the leaves nice and fresh.

As your Zanzibar gem plant grows it can be re-potted in a larger pot. Choose a free draining compost suitable for cactus and succulents or add extra grit to a multipurpose compost. These plants are quite slow growers, but they will stay evergreen all year round.

Warning: The Zamioculcas family are poisonous if ingested. Ensure this plant is kept out of reach of pets and small children.