Why Is My ZZ Plant Turning Yellow? An Expert Reveals the Common Care Mistake You're Making
Hint: Your care routine is where the problem lies, but tweaking it will get those leaves gloriously green in no time


ZZ plants, also known as Zanzibar gem, boast glossy dark green leaves that adorn tall, droopy stems, bringing so much character with their foliage alone.
And while these popular houseplants are not the fussiest of the lot, like any crop, they often encounter minor problems of their own. One of the most common issues that happens to be visually identifiable is that of yellowing leaves.
Worry not! If your ZZ plant is exhibiting yellowing leaves, there are ways of altering its care routine to fix it. We asked gardening experts for their top tips.
Why Are My ZZ Plant's Leaves Turning Yellow?
In conversation with gardening expert Tony O'Neill, he tells us that there are a couple of issues that could be leading to a ZZ plant's yellowing leaves. While they are cold-tolerant indoor plants, they do have other sensitivities that require attention.
"The symptom of yellowing leaves in ZZ plants can often be attributed to overwatering, which leads to root rot," he notes. "Or under-watering where the plant isn't receiving enough hydration."
Additionally, he goes on to explain that excessive direct sunlight can also cause the leaves to yellow.
While they are considered to be one of the best low-maintenance plants for indoor gardening, they still require their basic needs to be met. So these are some prime problems to keep an eye out for.

I'm Tony O'Neill, a gardening expert and best-selling author. I am an educator with a thriving YouTube channel that has 438,000 subscribers and receives over 1.4 million monthly views. Through my award-winning website, simplifygardening.com, I share my passion for gardening and sustainability. I've authored books including "Simplify Vegetable Gardening," "Composting Masterclass," and "Your First Vegetable Garden," empowering individuals to cultivate their own green spaces.
Can You Fix the Yellowing on a ZZ Plant?
"Yes, it’s often possible to correct the yellowing of leaves," says Tony. "Provided the cause is identified early and addressed properly."
This general hardiness is one of the reasons ZZ plants are classified as one of the best houseplants for beginner gardeners. So if you're turning over a new leaf with this rewarding hobby and are having trouble with your ZZ plant's yellowing leaves, you still have a chance to save it from becoming garden fodder.
How to Fix the Yellowing on a ZZ Plant?
If you're looking to remedy your houseplant's yellowing leaves, Tony tells us that the process is fairly easy to adopt and quick to action.
First, he recommends assessing the watering schedule and making sure it’s not excessive. His pro tip for mastering the perfect watering routine for ZZ plants is to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
"If overwatering is the issue, you may need to repot the plant in fresh soil and ensure the pot has good drainage," he notes. "Just be sure to cut back any mushy, brown roots before repotting."
If underwatering is the problem at play, he recommends establishing a consistent watering routine. "This way you can ensure your ZZ plant gets just enough moisture without becoming waterlogged," he says.
Last but not least, if your ZZ plant is enduring long hours of harsh sunlight, reposition your crop so it isn't privy to overexposure. Plus, you can always pop them in a dim corner since these low-light houseplants thrive in moderate lighting.
If you tend to be a bit of an anxious plant parent and your ZZ plant's yellowing leaves had you feeling solemn at first sight, we're here to tell you that all your plant needs is an amended care routine.
Watering houseplants to perfection can be quite a tricky task, which explains the reason why it happens to be a common culprit. However, with a dash of patience and a rejigged hydration routine, your ZZ plant will be back to sporting its green sheen super soon.
FAQs
What Does an Overwatered ZZ Plant Look Like?
According to Tony, an overwatered ZZ plant typically has yellowing leaves that may also be soft and mushy to the touch. "You might also notice a moldy or rotting smell from the soil, indicating root rot," he says.
If you notice either of these problems affecting your ZZ plant, chances are that you're drowning your crop in too much water.
Should a ZZ Plant Be Misted?
While we love the satisfaction of gently refreshing our plants with a pretty mister, Tony tells us that ZZ plants do not require misting.
"They're known to thrive in low-humidity environments," he explains. "So additional humidity from misting is unnecessary and can contribute to issues like leaf rot."
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletters are your inside source for what’s shaping interiors now - and what’s next. Discover trend forecasts, smart style ideas, and curated shopping inspiration that brings design to life. Subscribe today and stay ahead of the curve.

Amiya is a Home Wellness Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism from City, University of London, and has lent her words to beauty, fashion, and health sections of lifestyle publications including Harper’s Bazaar and Women’s Health. Her experience as a research analyst has equipped her with an eye for emerging trends. When she’s off the clock, she can be found reading, listening to music, or overanalyzing her latest Co-Star update.
-
I'd Have Never Thought Mid-Century Modern Style Would Work So Well for a Bathroom — But These 10 Examples Prove They're a Match Made in Heaven
The mid-century look gets a modern makeover in these stunning bathroom projects, all handpicked by the experts
-
Off to 3daysofdesign? These Are the Coolest Things to Do and See in Copenhagen This Week
We've broken down everything you should know ahead of the festival, from interactive installations to culinary pop-ups and more
-
How to Reset Your Home for Summer — 8 Tasks for the Next Month to Bring Calm Back to Your Rooms
Get your home back in neutral gear ahead of the busy summer months with this easy checklist of what to prep ahead of the holidays
-
Everyone's Swapping Their Cotton and Linen Bedding for Bamboo — This Is Why, and Where to Buy the Sets That Look Just as Good
Design-forward brands are launching bamboo bedding, a 'smart fabric' that might just make you sleep more soundly across the seasons
-
I'm Following This Interior Designer's Method for Growing Supermarket Basil Into Giant Plants — They Look Incredible in Her Kitchen
When it comes to getting basil plants to grow big and bushy, it's all about hydrating it the right way
-
6 Lessons in How to Hang Scarves From Closet Organizers That Will Make Your Wardrobe Feel So Much More Aesthetic and Elevated
These clever tips will keep your scarves in shape for the perfect finishing touch to your summer outfits
-
What to Declutter for Summer — 7 Areas That Need Your Attention Now
These seasonal decluttering tasks will help restore freshness to your home as you head into the summer season
-
This Classic Hallway Layout Could Be Ruining Your Home's Feng Shui — Hint: It's All to Do With Your Stairs
If you value the energy of your home, this is a crucial space to pay attention to
-
Alexa, Hit The Lights — These Smart Outdoor Lighting Options Are a Garden Game-Changer
Make illuminating your outdoor space that much easier to control by going all-in on Alexa-enabled garden lighting — this is what to know and what to buy
-
Did You Know 'Summer Insomnia' Is a Thing? Here's What's Keeping You From Drifting Off, and How to Beat It
Leave the counting of sheep to cartoons and pick up these sleep expert-approved tips for the summer season instead