Raven ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven'
The Raven ZZ Plant is a dramatic cultivar whose new growth emerges bright green then matures to near-black, glossy foliage. As tough and drought-tolerant as the classic ZZ, it adds bold, dark color with almost no effort.
- Light
- Low to bright indirect light
- Water
- Let soil dry fully between waterings
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Raven ZZ Plant is a patented cultivar of Zamioculcas zamiifolia selected for its striking color transformation: new leaves emerge a vivid lime green and darken to a deep purplish-black as they mature.
It shares all the toughness of the standard ZZ — thriving on neglect, low light, and infrequent watering thanks to its water-storing rhizomes. The dramatic dark foliage makes it one of the most sought-after low-maintenance statement plants.
How to identify it
Recognize the Raven ZZ by:
- New growth: bright, lime-green stems and leaves that emerge from the base
- Mature leaves: glossy, deep purple-black, oval, arranged along upright stems
- Stems: thick, smooth, arching upward, growing from underground rhizomes
- Habit: upright clump, typically 1-3 feet tall
- Contrast: the mix of bright new growth against black mature foliage is the key identifier
Care & growing
Light: Tolerates low light but the darkest color develops in bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sun.
Water: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. The rhizomes store water, so it is very drought-tolerant and prone to rot if overwatered.
Soil: Well-draining mix.
Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C).
Feeding: Light feeding a few times during the growing season.
Propagation: Divide rhizomes, or root leaf or stem cuttings (slow).
Habitat & origin
The parent species Zamioculcas zamiifolia is native to eastern Africa, from Kenya to South Africa, where it grows in dry grasslands and forests, surviving drought via its thick rhizomes.
'Raven' is a horticultural cultivar grown worldwide as an indoor plant valued for tolerating low light and irregular care.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Raven ZZ's new growth green, not black?
This is normal. New leaves emerge bright green and gradually darken to black as they mature. Bright indirect light helps them reach the deepest color.
How often should I water it?
Only when the soil has dried out completely — often every 2-3 weeks. It stores water in its rhizomes and rots easily if overwatered.
Can it grow in low light?
Yes, it tolerates low light well, though its foliage develops the richest black color in brighter indirect light.
Raven ZZ Plant guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Raven ZZ Plant.
