LIGHTEmerald palm Zamioculcas zamiifolia
This is the plant for those wanting something that is tolerant, not fussy and easy to look after. The emerald palm can cope with most things and is the perfect beginner’s plant for anyone who isn’t at all green-fingered. It has decorative leaves that are large, thick and shiny – but the most fascinating thing is what we find beneath the soil: the large, potato-shaped, rhizome-like roots with a unique ability to store water. And that’s why this plant is able to survive lengthy periods without watering – perfect for forgetful gardeners!
LIGHT
The emerald palm can tolerate most things – from too much light to not enough. I have several of my own in my bathroom, where the only light is from the ceiling spots, and they’re always putting out new growth. They seem to do well in relatively warm rooms.
WATERING
It can cope with long dry periods, and prefers being forgotten and left to dry out rather than being over-watered.
SOIL
Use seed, cactus or potting compost. For good drainage, add leca in the bottom of the pot and also mixed in with the soil. The emerald palm likes a crowded container. Don’t repot until the roots look as if they’ll burst out, and then to a pot that is only a few centimetres (1in) bigger in diameter.
FEEDING
It generally needs only very little feeding. Feed with liquid organic plant food two to three times during the warmer months.
ORIGIN
It is native to Africa, all the way from Kenya to South Africa.
MISCELLANEOUS
Emerald palms can be easily propagated by splitting up the rootball and potting in fresh soil. The plant is an air-purifier and good for asthma- and allergy-sufferers. Note that the sap in the leaves contains oxalic acid, which can irritate mucous membrane.
