How to Propagate ZZ Plant From Leaf: Patience Pays Off

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is the tank of the houseplant world. It survives low light, neglect, and drought. But did you know you can clone this indestructible plant from just a single leaflet?

It’s one of the easiest propagation methods out there, but I’ll be honest with you: it is not for the impatient. Growing a ZZ plant from a leaf takes months. But the reward of watching a tiny potato-like tuber form is absolutely worth it.

The Two Methods: Water vs. Soil

You can propagate ZZ leaves in either water or soil. Both work, but water allows you to see the progress, which is fun (and reassuring).

Method 1: Water Propagation (My Favorite)

1. Select a Healthy Leaf: Choose a plump, dark green leaf from a mature stem. Don’t pick a new, pale green baby leaf; it doesn’t have enough energy stored yet.
2. Cut or Pinch: You can cut the leaf off with clean scissors, or gently pinch it and twist until it pops off. You want a tiny bit of the leaf stem (petiole) attached.
3. Dry It Out: Let the leaf sit on a counter for 1-2 hours. This lets the cut wound callous over, preventing rot.
4. Place in Water: Drop the leaf into a shot glass or small jar with just enough water to cover the bottom 1/4 inch of the leaf. Do not submerge the whole leaf!
5. Wait: Change the water every week to keep it fresh.
   • Month 1-2: You’ll see a bulbous white callus form.
   • Month 3-4: Tiny white roots will shoot out from the callus.
   • Month 5+: A little tuber (rhizome) will form. Once this tuber is the size of a marble and has roots, pot it in soil.

Method 2: Soil Propagation

1. Prep the Leaves: Same as above—cut and let callous.
2. Planting: Insert the cut end of the leaves vertically into a pot filled with well-draining cactus mix. Bury them about half an inch deep.
3. Humidity: Cover the pot with a plastic bag or clear container to keep humidity high.
4. Watering: Mist the soil occasionally to keep it slightly damp but not wet.
5. The Reveal: This method requires blind faith. After about 3-4 months, give a leaf a very gentle tug. If it resists, it has rooted!

Why Is Nothing Happening?

If your leaf is still green and plump, it’s alive. ZZ plants operate on geological time.

• Rotting? If the leaf turns yellow or mushy, throw it out. You likely overwatered or didn’t let it callous.
• Wrinkling? It’s dehydrated. Check your water levels.

Sarah’s Pro Tip

Since this process is so slow, don’t just do one. Propagate 5-10 leaves at once in the same container. Not all will survive, and when they do root, you can plant them together to create a fuller pot instantly!