Raven ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’), 6-Inch Pot

Raven ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’) brings glossy, near-black foliage and strong upright growth to an indoor collection. Its thick leaf stalks carry smooth oval leaflets that emerge green before deepening to dark purple-black with maturity. This larger 6-inch nursery-pot offering makes a bold foliage accent without demanding frequent watering.

Points of interest

• New green growth gradually darkens, creating a natural contrast with older foliage.
• Glossy leaflets and upright, gently arching stalks give the plant an architectural shape.
• Water-storing rhizomes help it tolerate periods of dryness.
• Tolerates lower light, although bright indirect light supports stronger growth; it is not a no-light plant.
• This listing is for the 6-inch offering, separate from our smaller 4-inch Raven ZZ.

What ships and estimated mature size

One live Raven ZZ rooted in a 6-inch nursery grow pot. The Etsy source describes approximately 2–3 feet tall; this is an estimate, and height, stalk count and fullness vary naturally. The pot measurement refers to the container rather than plant height. Original photos show representative plants with differing fullness and foliage maturity.

With suitable care and time, mature plants may reach approximately 3–4 feet tall with a similar spread. Growth is generally slow, especially in lower light. Mature size is an estimate, not a guarantee. Newly developing foliage may arrive green and darken as it matures.

Decorative planters, furnishings, extra soil and fertilizer are not included and are sold separately. If using a decorative cover pot, compare the nursery pot’s actual outside width with its opening. Keep the plant in a draining inner pot, remove it to water, and let it drain fully before returning it to a cover pot without drainage holes.

Optional planter pairings

Choose a White BASEL 6-Inch Planter, Black BASEL 6-Inch Planter, White OSLO 6-Inch Planter or Black OSLO 6-Inch Planter for an indoor display. All four decorative planters are optional separate purchases, not included with the plant. Their 6.3-inch openings require checking the nursery pot’s actual outside width for fit. These planters have no drainage holes; remove the draining inner pot to water and let it drain completely before returning it. Do not allow water to collect around the roots.

Care guide

• Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Lower light is tolerated but slows growth and reduces water use. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, and acclimate gradually to any gentle morning sun. Keep near a source of natural light or use a suitable grow light rather than placing in a dark room.
• Water: Allow the potting mix to dry thoroughly before watering deeply. Check moisture below the surface and the pot’s weight, not just the top layer. Let excess water drain completely and empty the saucer or cover pot. Rhizomes store water, so frequent watering and constantly damp soil are greater risks than an occasional dry interval.
• Seasonal adjustments: Water less in winter, cool rooms or lower light, and only increase watering when the mix dries faster. A 6-inch container may retain moisture longer than a small pot. Avoid a fixed weekly watering schedule.
• Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix in a pot with drainage holes. Our Rich Houseplant Soil Blend is sold separately; add perlite or pumice as needed to improve aeration and drainage. Avoid dense, compacted soil and oversized pots that remain wet.
• Temperature: Comfortable indoor temperatures, approximately 65–85°F, suit this tropical plant. Protect from frost, cold window glass and drafts. Outdoor summer placement must be sheltered from strong sun and prolonged rain; return indoors before cold weather.
• Humidity: Average indoor humidity is generally suitable. Misting is unnecessary. Keep good airflow and avoid persistently wet foliage.
• Feeding: Feed sparingly during active spring and summer growth according to the fertilizer label. Our 2 oz Slow-Release Fertilizer for Houseplants & Succulents is sold separately. Follow directions for the container size; reduce or pause feeding during inactivity and do not fertilize a stressed or newly disturbed plant.
• Leaf maintenance: Support the leaflets while gently wiping dust with a soft damp cloth. Avoid leaf-shine products. Inspect leaflet undersides and stalk bases for pests such as mealybugs and scale.
• Pruning: Remove fully yellowed or damaged stalks near the soil level using clean tools. Do not cut healthy green new growth simply because it has not darkened yet. Avoid unnecessary trimming of slow-growing healthy stalks.
• Repotting: Repot when roots and rhizomes crowd or distort the container, or when the mix no longer drains properly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the root ball, keeping the original planting depth and avoiding damage to the fleshy rhizomes.
• Propagation: Established plants can be divided carefully so each section has roots and a rhizome. Leaf or stalk cuttings may also be tried, but development of new rhizomes and shoots can take many months. Keep rooting medium airy and avoid saturated conditions.
• Troubleshooting: Yellowing stalks with wet soil may indicate excess moisture; inspect conditions before watering again. Green new leaves are normal for Raven. Soft stalk bases or a persistently wet pot call for prompt root and drainage checks. Growth may pause for long periods without indicating a problem.
• After arrival: Unpack gently and place in bright indirect light. Check the soil before watering and allow time to settle before repotting. Natural variation in color and fullness is expected.

Pet safety: Not pet-safe. ZZ plants contain irritating calcium oxalate crystals and can cause mouth irritation and digestive upset if chewed. Keep away from pets and children; wear gloves if sensitive when handling cut plant material.