Name: derives from the similarity of its foliage to the cycad genus Zamia and the similarity to Colocasia; Colocasia comes from culcas or colcas named qolqas.
English: Zanzibar gem ZZ plant; Zuzu plant; Aroid palm; Eternity plant;
Emerald palm.
Genus: 1 species.
Region: eastern Africa, Kenya South Africa.
Use: ornamental plant, for its attractive glossy foliage and easy care.
Synonym: Caladium zamiifolium; Caladium zamiaefolium, Zamioculcas loddigesii; Zamioculcas lanceolata.
Habitat: can survive low level of light and water, due to the large potato-like rhizome that stores water until rainfall resumes; desires bright, indirect light, some sun will be tolerated.
Content: high water content of leaves, 91%, and petioles, 95%; acylated C-glycosylflavone apigenin 6-C-(6″-O-(3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaroyl)- β-glucopyranoside).
Use: ornamental; traditional medicine; air purification.