Zamioculcas Zamiifolia 'Raven'

A patented cultivar of the classic ZZ plant, Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven' is famous for its dramatic, deep purple-black foliage. New stems emerge as a bright lime-green before naturally darkening to a rich, near-black sheen as they mature. Growing from water-storing underground rhizomes, this low-maintenance architectural plant combines intense, moody visual impact with exceptional drought tolerance and adaptability.

  • Toxic to pets and children
  • Repot once every 2 years
  • Fertilize once a month
  • Very little water
  • Bright, indirect light

About Zamioculcas Zamiifolia 'Raven'

Origin

Discovered as a striking color mutation in a commercial nursery in South Korea before being patented and introduced worldwide. New growth emerges as a bright lime-green before maturing over several weeks into an intense, glossy dark purple-black color.

Air Purifying

Excellent air cleaner that utilizes nocturnal CAM photosynthesis to scrub indoor air of volatile organic compounds such as benzene, xylene, and ethylbenzene.

Toxicity

Keep safely away from curious pets and young children. The plant tissue contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that trigger immediate mouth irritation, excessive drooling, and stomach discomfort if chewed. 

Caring for Zamioculcas Zamiifolia 'Raven'

Watering

Allow the potting mix to dry out almost entirely (75% to 100%) between waterings. Its bulbous rhizomes store massive reserves of water, making it extremely drought-tolerant and highly susceptible to rot if given too much moisture.

Light and Placement

Highly flexible across light conditions. To encourage strong growth and deep black coloration, place it in medium to bright indirect light; it also handles low-light spaces effortlessly, though new stems will take longer to darken.

Nutrition

Minimal feeder. Feed once in mid-spring and once in mid-summer using a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Do not feed during autumn or winter.

Repotting

Move up a pot size every 2 to 3 years in spring only when the thick tubers fill the container. Plant in an open, fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix to ensure rapid water drainage.

Pruning and Flowering

Occasionally produces a pale green spadix flower tucked near the soil line, though rare in home settings. Pruning is simple—snip off any damaged or yellowed lower stems clear down at the soil line with clean shears.

Zamioculcas Zamiifolia SOS

Illness

Overwatering is its main threat, quickly leading to soft stems and tuber rot. Keep an eye out for mealybugs or scale hiding along the dark stems, wiping them away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

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