Why Is My ZZ Plant Dying? Symptoms and How to Save It

A ZZ plant that’s dying is almost always rotting from too much water. The good news is that its thick rhizomes store so much energy that even a badly damaged plant can often be saved.

Start with the symptoms below, then follow the rescue steps.

Black Leaves or Stems

Black, mushy stems at the soil line mean rot has taken hold. Black patches on leaves can also come from cold damage below about 50 °F.

Cut every black stem back to firm tissue, and check the rhizomes as described below.

Brown Leaves and Tips

Crispy brown tips or patches usually mean scorching sun or soil that stayed bone dry for too long. Move it out of direct sun and water deeply when dry.

Soft brown patches are a different story. They point back to overwatering.

Dark Spots on the Stems

Many ZZ stems have natural dark mottling or speckles. That’s normal, especially on older stems.

Only worry if the spots are soft, sunken or spreading. That’s rot, and the stem should come off.

Curling Leaves

Leaves curl inward to save water when the plant is thirsty, too hot or in harsh light. Water thoroughly and move it a few feet back from the window.

White Powder on the Leaves

A white, dusty coating is powdery mildew, a fungus that likes still, humid air. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth, remove badly affected leaflets and improve air flow.

For stubborn cases, see getting rid of powdery mildew on indoor plants.

The Rescue: Checking and Trimming the Rhizomes

1. Slide the plant out of its pot and shake off the soil.
2. Squeeze each rhizome gently. Firm and pale is healthy; soft, brown or smelly is rotten.
3. Cut away all rotten parts with clean scissors.
4. Let the plant dry out of the pot for a day.
5. Repot in fresh, dry cactus mix in a pot with a drainage hole.
6. Wait a week before watering, then water only when the soil is fully dry.

Check price on Amazon.

If only a few healthy stems are left, root them as cuttings for a backup. Here is how to propagate a ZZ plant.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

ZZ plants are slow. After a rescue, it can take a few months before you see a new shoot. That’s normal; keep it bright, warm and on the dry side.

For yellowing alone, see why a ZZ plant turns yellow. For daily care, see my ZZ plant care guide.

Dying ZZ Plant Questions