Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven' – deep black foliage with ultra-low maintenance needs

Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven' stands out with its dramatic, almost black foliage and architectural symmetry. New leaves emerge bright lime green and slowly darken into a deep charcoal, giving the plant a unique dual-tone effect during active growth. Its thick, upright stems rise in glossy rows like sculpted feathers, earning its name 'Raven' for the moody sheen and structure. With its remarkable drought resistance and adaptability to lower light, this cultivar brings bold form and deep contrast into modern spaces — no fuss required.
Leaf traits and growth structure
 
Color progression: Bright green new leaves maturing to near-black within weeks
 
Texture: Smooth, waxy surface with natural gloss
 
Leaf shape: Pinnate structure with paired, oval leaflets arranged along thick upright petioles
 
Growth habit: Clumping and self-supporting; produces thick underground rhizomes
 
Indoor size: 40–70 cm in height, slow vertical growth over time
Natural origin and growing conditions
This cultivar originates from Zamioculcas zamiifolia, a species native to eastern Africa where it survives drought, shade, and nutrient-poor soils by storing water in rhizomes. 'Raven' inherits the same tough traits but with added aesthetic edge thanks to its rare pigmentation. It thrives indoors without high humidity or intense light, adapting well to bright indirect or even shaded conditions.
 
Parent species: Zamioculcas zamiifolia (eastern Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar)
 
Growth rate: Slow; produces only a few new shoots per year
 
Light tolerance: From bright indirect down to low-light corners
 
Toxicity: Toxic if ingested – keep away from pets and children
 
Lifespan: Long-lived and highly resilient under consistent care
Zamioculcas 'Raven' care
 
Light: Bright indirect is ideal, but handles low light; avoid direct sun which may scorch dark foliage
 
Watering: Water only when the soil has dried completely; overwatering is the #1 issue
 
Humidity: Not picky; grows well in standard indoor humidity levels
 
Temperature: Prefers 18–26 °C; avoid extended drops below 15 °C
 
Substrate: Fast-draining mix with coarse materials like perlite or pumice
 
Repotting: Every 2–3 years when rhizomes fill the pot
 
Feeding: Optional — a diluted liquid feed every 6–8 weeks during growing season is sufficient
 
Propagation: Via division of rhizomes or by leaf cuttings (slow method)
 
Hydroponics: Can adapt to semi-hydro if transitioned carefully
 
Pruning: Remove yellow or collapsed stalks at the base to keep tidy
Common problems and how to fix them
 
Yellowing stalks: Classic sign of overwatering — let soil dry and reduce watering frequency
 
No new growth: Normal during winter or low-light periods; growth is seasonal and slow
 
Wrinkled stalks: May indicate underwatering over a long stretch; water thoroughly and resume normal schedule
 
Root rot: Caused by poor drainage or heavy soil — repot into aerated mix and cut back watering
 
Pests: Rare, but can occasionally attract spider mites or mealybugs; wipe down leaves and treat if needed
Extra notes and indoor styling tips
'Raven' fits perfectly into minimal interiors thanks to its color contrast and symmetrical form. The dark foliage pairs beautifully with light-toned ceramics or metallic planters, and its upright growth makes it suitable for side tables, desks, or entryways. As a bonus, it barely sheds and doesn't demand frequent attention, making it one of the most hands-off sculptural houseplants around.
Etymology and cultivar notes
“Zamioculcas” combines the name of the cycad genus Zamia with the suffix “-culcas,” referring to an earlier misclassification. The species name “zamiifolia” refers to the leaf shape resembling that of Zamia. The cultivar name ‘Raven’ describes the dark, near-black coloring of its mature foliage, reminiscent of raven feathers. It was first introduced commercially in 2015 and gained popularity quickly due to its durability and unusual pigmentation.
FAQs about Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven'
 
Can I use this plant in low light?Yes — it’s one of the best low-light tolerant houseplants available and keeps growing steadily even in shaded corners.
 
Is the black foliage natural or dyed?Completely natural — new leaves emerge green and darken as they mature without any external treatment.
 
Is it safe for offices or shared spaces?Yes, as long as pets or small children aren't likely to chew it. It’s clean, low-maintenance, and visually striking.
Buy Zamioculcas 'Raven' now
Looking for a dark, sculptural plant that thrives on neglect? Order Zamioculcas zamiifolia 'Raven' today and bring bold texture and rich contrast into your indoor space.