Rare Variegated Zamioculcas Chameleon ZZ Plant 6cm Pot
The RARE Zamioculcas Chameleon ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Chameleon') puts a colourful twist on one of the toughest and easiest houseplants around. While the classic ZZ Plant is loved for its glossy dark green foliage, 'Chameleon' produces eye-catching new growth in bright shades of golden yellow and lime green, gradually changing to a deeper green as each leaf matures. It is this constantly changing foliage that gives the variety its 'Chameleon' name. New shoots emerge from the base of the plant with particularly vivid colouring, creating a striking contrast against the established darker leaves. As the plant grows, you'll often have several different shades of green, yellow and lime present at the same time. The leaves grow along thick, upright stems, giving the plant a neat, architectural appearance. Its glossy foliage reflects the light beautifully, while its naturally compact and upright habit means it works particularly well on desks, shelves, sideboards and floors as the plant becomes larger. Like other ZZ Plants, 'Chameleon' grows from thick underground rhizomes that store both water and nutrients. This adaptation makes it extremely tolerant of occasional neglect and means it can go considerably longer between waterings than many tropical houseplants. It's also exceptionally adaptable when it comes to light. Brighter indirect light will generally produce stronger growth and help you appreciate the colourful new foliage at its best, but the plant can tolerate significantly lower-light positions. Slow-growing, resilient and exceptionally easy to care for, the Chameleon ZZ is an excellent choice if you want something a little more unusual without taking on a demanding plant. Please note: The yellow and lime colouring of new foliage is a natural characteristic of this variety. Leaves gradually become greener as they mature, so the exact colouring of your plant will depend on its stage of growth. Light The Chameleon ZZ Plant is extremely adaptable, but bright, indirect light will give you the best combination of healthy growth and colourful foliage. Position it somewhere that receives plenty of natural light without prolonged exposure to strong direct sunlight. Gentle morning or evening sun is usually fine, but intense midday sunlight can scorch the foliage. 'Chameleon' can also tolerate lower-light areas exceptionally well. Growth will usually be slower in these positions, however, and you may not see new shoots appearing as frequently. Remember that yellow and lime new growth is normal for this variety. Don't automatically assume pale new leaves are a sign that the plant needs more light or nutrients – they naturally become greener as they mature. Watering If there's one thing to remember about caring for a ZZ Plant, it's don't overwater it. Zamioculcas develops thick underground rhizomes that store water, allowing the plant to cope extremely well with periods of dry soil. Allow the compost to dry out substantially between waterings. Rather than watering according to a weekly schedule, check the growing medium first. If it still feels damp beneath the surface, wait before watering again. When the plant does need water, give the compost a thorough soak and allow all excess water to drain freely from the pot. During autumn and winter, you may find that your Chameleon ZZ needs watering considerably less frequently. Signs of too much water can include: Yellowing established leaves Soft or mushy stems Persistently wet compost Soft or rotting rhizomes Sudden deterioration of the plant Signs the plant is very dry can include: Wrinkled or slightly shrivelled stems Drooping foliage Extremely dry compost When in doubt, it's generally safer to leave a ZZ Plant dry for a little longer than to water it too soon. Humidity Unlike many tropical houseplants, the Chameleon ZZ doesn't require particularly high humidity. Normal household humidity is perfectly suitable, making this an excellent choice for rooms where more humidity-sensitive tropical plants may struggle. There's usually no need to mist the foliage. Instead, concentrate on providing sensible watering, good light and adequate airflow. Temperature Normal indoor temperatures are ideal. Aim for approximately 18–27°C where possible and keep the plant away from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below around 15°C, particularly when the compost is wet. Cold, damp growing conditions can significantly increase the risk of root and rhizome problems. Keep the plant away from frequently opened doors during winter and avoid positioning it directly beside radiators or other strong heat sources. Soil Good drainage is essential. Use a loose, free-draining houseplant mixture that doesn't remain saturated for long periods. A standard houseplant compost can be improved with materials such as: Perlite Pumice Fine orchid bark Coco chips The aim is to create a mixture that retains enough moisture for the roots while allowing plenty of air into the root zone. Always use a pot with drainage holes. Feeding Chameleon ZZ Plants aren't particularly hungry plants. During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser approximately once every 4–6 weeks, following the manufacturer's recommended dilution. Feeding isn't necessary when the plant isn't actively growing, so reduce or stop fertilising during autumn and winter. Avoid excessive feeding. More fertiliser won't necessarily make a ZZ Plant grow faster and can result in a build-up of salts within the compost. Growth & New Leaves One of the best things about growing Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Chameleon' is watching each new shoot develop. Fresh growth emerges directly from the soil and can initially appear a particularly vibrant yellow, gold or lime green. The leaves then gradually transition through different shades before becoming greener as they mature. This colour change is completely normal and is the defining characteristic of the variety. ZZ Plants are naturally relatively slow growing, so don't be concerned if your plant goes for periods without producing new shoots. Growth is generally strongest during the brighter, warmer months. Repotting ZZ Plants are quite happy being slightly snug in their pots, so frequent repotting isn't necessary. Consider repotting when: The rhizomes are becoming extremely crowded The pot is beginning to distort Roots are growing heavily through the drainage holes Water is struggling to penetrate the root ball The plant has clearly outgrown its existing container When repotting, move up by one pot size at a time. Putting a small root system into a very large volume of compost increases the amount of moisture surrounding the roots and can make overwatering much easier. Take care when removing the plant from its pot as the underground rhizomes can be surprisingly large and firm. Leaf Care The naturally glossy leaves are one of the Chameleon ZZ's most attractive features. Dust can gradually accumulate on the foliage, so occasionally wipe the leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth. This keeps the plant looking its best and makes it easier to inspect for pests. Leaf-shine products aren't necessary – healthy ZZ foliage develops its attractive glossy finish naturally. Pruning Very little pruning is required. Individual stems can be removed if they become damaged or completely yellow. Use clean, sharp secateurs and cut the affected stem close to soil level. Remember that the naturally yellow or lime-coloured new growth should not be removed. Give new leaves time to mature and you'll see their colour gradually change. Common Problems Yellow leaves This can be slightly confusing with a Chameleon ZZ because colourful yellow new growth is completely normal. However, if older, previously green foliage suddenly turns yellow, particularly alongside wet compost, overwatering should be your first consideration. Soft or mushy stems Often a warning sign of excessive moisture. Check the roots and rhizomes for rot and allow the growing medium to dry. Brown, crispy areas Can result from extreme dryness, excessive direct sunlight or prolonged exposure to heat. No new growth ZZ Plants naturally grow slowly and may remain unchanged for considerable periods. Make sure the plant receives sufficient light and warmth, particularly if you'd like to encourage faster growth. New leaves becoming green Completely normal! The colour-changing foliage is exactly what makes 'Chameleon' special. Pests Chameleon ZZ Plants are generally trouble-free, but occasionally inspect them for common houseplant pests such as: Mealybugs Scale insects Spider mites Pay particular attention to the stems, undersides of the leaves and areas where individual leaflets meet the central stalk. Toxicity Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Chameleon' is not considered pet-safe and should not be eaten. Like the standard ZZ Plant, its tissues contain calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation if chewed or ingested. Keep the plant somewhere inaccessible to pets and young children who may be tempted to chew the foliage. Chameleon ZZ Plant Care at a Glance Botanical name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Chameleon' Common name: Chameleon ZZ Plant Light: Bright, indirect light; highly tolerant of lower light Water: Allow the compost to dry substantially between waterings Humidity: Normal household humidity Temperature: Ideally 18–27°C Soil: Loose, well-draining houseplant mix Feeding: Every 4–6 weeks during active growth Growth habit: Upright and architectural Growth rate: Slow to moderate Difficulty: Very easy Pet safe: No Special feature: New leaves emerge yellow to lime green before gradually maturing to deeper green