Have you heard of Raven ZZ plants? Though rare in many areas, this plant has been gaining in popularity. They have become easier to find, and you can find them in garden centers, nurseries and even some big box stores. Guess what? We have them at Luis’ Nursery, and we’d love for you to come check them out and take one home. We always want you be set up for success, so we have compiled a few tips for keeping your Raven ZZ happy and healthy.

What are some common questions?

Question – Aren’t the leaves supposed to be black?

Answer – If you see green leaves on your plant, guess what? They are baby leaves. When Raven ZZ leaves first unfurl, they are bright green. As those leaves mature, they will develop the characteristic black leaves.

Question – Is the Raven ZZ plant safe for pets?

Answer – Unfortunately, no. This plant is toxic when ingested and you should not let your pets (or kids) ingest any part of it. That doesn’t mean you can’t own one, just keep it somewhere away from pets and children.

Question – How do I prevent my ZZ Raven plant from leaning to the side?

Answer – Your Raven ZZ loves the light, and it will lean in the direction of its light source. If you’d like to keep it growing upright, just turn the pot a quarter of a turn every few months or so. This will keep it from dramatically leaning to one side.

Question – How much water does a ZZ Raven plant need?

Answer – Well, that depends on how much light and warmth your plant has. In the winter, if your plant is in a darker spot, it may not be thirsty for up to 1-2 months. If your plant is in a sunny spot in the summer, you may want to water every 2-4 weeks. The Raven ZZ stores water in the stems and rhizomes. You should water your ZZ Raven plant when the soil is almost completely dry and aerate the soil. You can aerate the soil by using a wooden chopstick. The water should be drained out of the drainage holes and then discarded to prevent root rot.

Question – Does the Raven ZZ need humidity?

Answer – This plant will do fine in low humidity and won’t need a humidifier.

Question – Do I need to fertilize my Raven ZZ plant?

Answer – Your plant would love to be fertilized a few times a year with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Question – I’ve heard you should wipe the dust off the Raven ZZ leaves, is this true?

Answer – The dust on your Raven ZZ leaves can cause some issues with photosynthesis. If you notice that your leaves are a bit dusty give those leaves a little wipe down with a soft cloth and water. This is also a good time to give it some extra love with some pest prevention spray or neem oil.

Question – How much light does a Raven ZZ plant need?

Answer – Your plant can survive in low light and would be suitable for bathrooms, offices, and other rooms with less natural sunlight. Your plant is a bit of a vampire, and doesn’t like bright direct sunlight, it will burn. Ideally place your plant near bright indirect light.

Question – Where can I find a Raven ZZ plant?

Answer – Luis’ Nursery! Come on over and pick one up and we are happy to answer any additional questions you might have to keep your Raven ZZ plant happy and healthy!