Join on WhatsApp
Get the latest updates directly on WhatsApp – motivation, news & more!
Join On WhatsApp
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) has earned its reputation as one of the easiest houseplants to care for. It thrives on neglect, doesn’t need much water, and can tolerate low light better than most indoor plants. But even the hardiest houseplants have their limits. Where you place your ZZ plant matters more than you might think not just for its health, but also for how well it fits into your space.
Despite its adaptability, there are a few spots in your home that are less than ideal for this green companion. If your ZZ plant seems to be struggling, it might not be your care routine it could be the location. Let’s take a closer look at five of the worst places to keep a ZZ plant and, finally, the best place for it to truly thrive.
Near a Heating or Cooling Vent
One of the biggest mistakes people make is placing their ZZ plant near an air vent. Whether it’s for heating in the winter or cooling in the summer, direct airflow can quickly dry out the plant’s soil and leaves. Although ZZ plants are drought-tolerant, they’re not fans of sudden temperature fluctuations or artificial drafts.
Warm, dry air can dehydrate the plant faster than expected, leading to curled, yellowing leaves. Cold air blasts, on the other hand, can shock the plant and stunt its growth. If you notice your ZZ plant leaning away from the vent or its leaves beginning to droop, it may be signaling discomfort.
In Direct Sunlight
It might seem natural to put a plant near a sunny window, but ZZ plants are not sunbathers. Their native environment is the shaded understory of East African forests, where they receive filtered light. Putting them in direct sun, especially south-facing windows that get strong afternoon rays, can scorch their leaves.
Sunburned leaves often appear pale, crispy, or develop brown patches. Once damaged, those leaves won’t recover, and the plant’s overall appearance can suffer. Instead, ZZ plants prefer indirect or diffused light. Bright, indirect light is ideal, but they can also adapt to low-light rooms just don’t mistake low light for no light.
In a Windowless Bathroom
While ZZ plants can tolerate lower light than most houseplants, they still need some natural light to survive. A common error is placing them in a windowless bathroom or hallway with no access to daylight. Over time, the plant will weaken, grow leggy, and lose its deep green color.
Bathrooms can also be too humid or fluctuate wildly in temperature, especially if you take hot showers regularly. That inconsistent environment, paired with a complete lack of natural light, is a recipe for a sad-looking ZZ. If you really want greenery in a bathroom without windows, consider rotating your plant into better-lit areas every few weeks or investing in a low-spectrum grow light.
On a Cold Windowsill in Winter
ZZ plants like warmth. They do best in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F and don’t respond well to cold drafts or chilly windows. During winter, placing your plant directly on a windowsill especially if your windows are older or poorly insulated can expose it to temperatures that drop below what it can comfortably handle.
Cold stress can cause the plant to go dormant or show signs of decline, such as blackened stems and wilting leaves. If the pot is ceramic or poorly insulated, the roots can get too cold, even if the air in the room seems fine. A better choice is to move it away from windows during the colder months or add a layer of insulation between the pot and the cold surface.
In a Dark Corner That Never Gets Light
Although it’s often touted as a low-light plant, the ZZ still needs light to grow. Placing it in a dark corner that never sees daylight is like putting it in slow decline. The plant will gradually stop producing new shoots, and existing leaves may start to yellow or fall off.
If your room lacks natural light, the ZZ plant may survive for a while, but it won’t thrive. Remember, “low light” doesn’t mean “no light.” While it won’t scream for attention the way some finicky plants do, a ZZ plant in total darkness is slowly fading. The fix is simple: give it access to filtered natural light or use a grow light to supplement its needs.
The Best Spot for a ZZ Plant
Now that we’ve covered where not to place your ZZ plant, let’s talk about the ideal spot. A ZZ plant will do best in a location that offers bright, indirect light and stable temperatures. East- or north-facing windows are excellent choices, as they offer natural light without the harsh direct rays of afternoon sun. If all you have are south-facing windows, position the plant a few feet back or behind a sheer curtain.
A room with consistent temperatures and average humidity is perfect. Keep the plant away from doors that open frequently in winter, radiators, and drafty windows. A corner of a living room, bedroom, or office near a window but not too close is usually a safe bet.
ZZ plants also benefit from occasional dusting of their leaves to help them absorb light more efficiently. Rotate the pot every few weeks to encourage even growth on all sides. And although they don’t need frequent watering, check the soil every few weeks and water only when it feels dry two inches below the surface.
Final Thoughts
ZZ plants are popular for good reason. They’re low-maintenance, sculptural, and forgiving. But even the toughest plants have preferences. Avoiding the five worst locations next to vents, in direct sun, in dark or cold areas, and in rooms with no natural light can help your ZZ plant stay vibrant and healthy for years.
Find that bright, stable spot in your home, and your ZZ will reward you with lush, glossy foliage and steady growth. Sometimes, just a small shift in location can make all the difference between a struggling plant and a thriving one.