What's eating my zz plant zenzi?

ZZ Plant Zenzi shares the pest resilience of the species, with thick, waxy leaves that deter most insects. Spider mites are the most common indoor threat, especially in heated, dry rooms. Mealybugs can colonise the compact, tightly bunched leaflets of Zenzi's distinctive curled fronds. Inspect the inner leaf curves where bugs hide easily.

Tiny pale dots and faint webbing on the waxy dark leaves; worst after long periods indoors with low humidity Wipe all leaf surfaces; spray with diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap; boost humidity around the plant

White cottony fluff tucked inside the tightly curled leaflets or at stem junctions; sticky secretions below the infestation Dab with isopropyl alcohol; apply neem oil spray weekly for 3–4 weeks; separate from other plants immediately

Hard brownish bumps on petioles and leaf undersides; leaves become dull and growth stalls Physically remove with a toothbrush; follow with horticultural or neem oil treatment; re-check after 14 days