Is a ZZ Plant a Succulent? Key Differences Explained

By Marcus Williams · January 24, 2026

No, a ZZ plant is not a succulent. While it shares some characteristics with succulents—such as drought tolerance and water-storing rhizomes—it belongs to the Zamioculcas zamiifolia species in the Araceae family, not the botanical group classified as succulents. Its resilience, low-light adaptability, and minimal care needs make it popular among indoor gardeners, often leading to confusion with succulents.

Understanding the ZZ Plant: Origins and Classification

The ZZ plant, scientifically known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is native to eastern Africa, particularly Tanzania and Zanzibar. It was first described in the 19th century but gained widespread popularity as a houseplant in the early 2000s due to its hardiness and attractive glossy foliage.

Taxonomic Family and Botanical Traits

Unlike true succulents, which are defined by fleshy leaves or stems that store water, the ZZ plant belongs to the Araceae (arum) family—related to peace lilies and philodendrons. Its ability to survive prolonged dry periods comes from underground rhizomes, not leaf tissue.

Scientific name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Family: Araceae
Natural habitat: Tropical grasslands and scrub forests of East Africa
Growth pattern: Rhizomatous perennial
Leaf structure: Pinnately compound, waxy, dark green

Why People Mistake ZZ Plants for Succulents

Several visual and functional similarities contribute to the misconception that ZZ plants are succulents:

Drought tolerance: Both ZZ plants and succulents can go weeks without watering.
Low maintenance: They thrive on neglect and require minimal attention.
Water storage: ZZ plants have rhizomes that store moisture, mimicking succulent adaptations.
Indoor popularity: Both are common in homes and offices due to their resilience.

However, these traits reflect convergent evolution rather than shared taxonomy.

Key Differences Between ZZ Plants and Succulents

Despite surface-level similarities, there are fundamental differences in anatomy, growth habits, and care requirements.

Feature	ZZ Plant	True Succulents (e.g., Echeveria)
Botanical Family	Araceae	Cactaceae, Crassulaceae, etc.
Water Storage Organ	Rhizomes (underground stems)	Fleshy leaves or stems
Light Requirements	Low to bright indirect light	Bright direct sunlight (6+ hours)
Soil Preference	Well-draining mix, tolerates standard potting soil	Specially formulated cactus/succulent mix
Humidity Tolerance	Adaptable to average indoor humidity	Prefers low humidity
Toxicity	Yes (calcium oxalate crystals)	Varies by species

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The table highlights key distinctions, especially in water storage mechanisms and light needs. ZZ plants tolerate lower light than most succulents, which typically require intense sun exposure to prevent etiolation. Additionally, while both prefer well-drained conditions, ZZ plants are more forgiving of regular potting mixes compared to succulents, which demand specialized soils to avoid root rot.

Care Guidelines for ZZ Plants vs. Succulents

Understanding the biological differences helps optimize care routines.

Watering Practices

Overwatering is the leading cause of death for ZZ plants. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings—typically every 2–4 weeks depending on environment. In contrast, many succulents need even less frequent watering during dormancy (e.g., winter).

Light Needs

ZZ plants flourish in low-light environments, making them ideal for offices or north-facing rooms. Succulents generally require at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain compact growth and vibrant coloration.

Soil and Drainage

While both benefit from good drainage, ZZ plants do not require gritty or sandy amendments. A standard potting mix with perlite works well. Succulents, however, perform best in a 2:1 ratio of cactus mix to perlite or pumice.

Frequently Asked Questions About ZZ Plants and Succulents

Is a ZZ plant considered a succulent?

No, the ZZ plant is not a succulent. It stores water in rhizomes and belongs to the Araceae family, whereas succulents are defined by fleshy water-storing leaves or stems and belong to various families like Crassulaceae or Cactaceae.

Can I grow a ZZ plant with my succulents?

You can place them together decoratively, but long-term cohabitation isn't ideal. Succulents need more light and drier soil than ZZ plants typically receive, increasing the risk of under-watering the ZZ or overexposing it to sun.

How often should I water a ZZ plant?

Water every 2–4 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Frequency depends on temperature, humidity, and light levels. In low-light settings, extend intervals up to 6 weeks.

Are ZZ plants toxic to pets?

Yes, ZZ plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats or dogs. Keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Do ZZ plants need direct sunlight?

No, ZZ plants prefer indirect or low light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. They thrive in shaded areas where many succulents would stretch or fade.