The zz plant is scientifically known as zamioculcas zamiifolia with various nick names such as the Zanzibar gem, emerald palm, fortune tree, and even the eternity plant.
It’s mandarin name is jin qian shu (金钱树) which literally means gold money tree.
While the plant is native to certain regions of Africa, it is believed that they made their way to the east via the Silk Road along with the cargo of traders.
The zz plant has some characteristics that made them generally lucky plants.
- Big succulent leaves (like jade plant)
- Fast sprouting evergreen (like bamboo)
- Several leaves growing from each stem
- Leaves grow in a upwards direction
- Sturdy plant that can survive with little care given (like poison ivy)
They are generally associated with good fortune. Capable of growing to a considerable height, they can also act as blockers of sha chi with the right placement
Their ability to survive with little care also makes them good as indoor plants.
However, there was a period time when these plants made the news for being toxic and poisonous. While the plant is definitely considered toxic by international standards, it’s not exactly what we associate poison with.
These attributes of the plants have been known for a long time, and somehow managed to go viral on social media as many owners of the zamioculcas didn’t know these things about them.
The gist is that if you are not totally comfortable with them, them don’t have them at home.
And if you have no issues about them, then at least consider whether you have children or pets at home.
There are various alternative feng shui plants to the zz plant in terms of positive energy.
