Information obtained from Godofredo U. Stuart Jr. M.D. (StuartXchange)
Common Name/s: Emerald palm, Zanzibar gem, Eternity plant, ZZ plant
Scientific Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
The ZZ plant is an evergreen species that grows from a robust, underground, succulent rhizome that stores water. It typically reaches a height of 45 to 60 centimeters. The pinnate leaves, which measure 40 to 60 centimeters in length, consist of 6-8 pairs of smooth, shiny, dark green leaflets, each 7 to 15 centimeters long. The small flowers are bright yellow to brown and are found on a bronze spadix about 5 centimeters long, partially concealed among the leaf bases.
Kingdom: Plantae
Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
Superdivision: Spermatophyta
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Subclass: Arecidae
Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Genus: Zamioculcas
Species: Zamioculas zamiifolia
- Drought Tolerant
-Phytoremediative air-purifying properties
Native to eastern Africa, particularly Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and parts of South Africa. It typically grows in dry forests and grasslands, often in shaded areas. The plant has been widely cultivated as a houseplant around the world due to its adaptability and ease of care.
Phytochemical Constituents:
-Alkaloids
-Flavonoids
-Sterols
-Triterpenoids
Industrial Uses: Ornamental plant
Pharmaceutical Uses:
-The sap is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to treat earache and other inflammatory conditions. The rhizome is sometimes used in poultices for its purported ability to reduce pain and swelling.
Pharmacological Uses:
-Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties: Extracts from the plant have shown activity against certain bacteria and fungi, indicating potential for use in developing new antimicrobial agents.