Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Chameleon’ is a striking and easy-care houseplant admired for its glossy foliage that changes colour as it matures. New leaves emerge in beautiful shades of bright golden-yellow and lime green before gradually deepening to a rich, glossy green. This ever-changing display of colour gives the plant its distinctive name. With its upright, architectural growth habit and wonderfully low-maintenance nature, ‘Chameleon’ is a fantastic addition to any indoor plant collection.
Scientific Name
Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Chameleon’
Common Name(s)
Chameleon ZZ Plant, Golden ZZ Plant, Zanzibar Gem
Origin
A cultivated variety of Zamioculcas zamiifolia, a species native to eastern Africa, particularly Kenya, Tanzania and surrounding regions, where it grows in seasonally dry tropical environments.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light to encourage healthy growth and vibrant golden new foliage. It can tolerate moderate to lower light levels, although growth will be slower and the colour changes may be less pronounced. Avoid prolonged strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. ZZ Plants store moisture in their thick stems and underground rhizomes, making them highly drought-tolerant. Reduce watering significantly during autumn and winter, particularly in cooler or lower-light conditions.
Humidity
Average household humidity is perfectly suitable. This plant does not require additional humidity or misting and is well suited to typical indoor environments.
Soil
Use a well-draining houseplant mix with added perlite, pumice or fine orchid bark to improve drainage. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive compost, as the thick rhizomes are susceptible to rot if kept consistently wet.
Food
Feed every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Little to no feeding is required during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
No. Like other members of the Araceae family, ZZ Plants contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
The biggest mistake with ZZ Plants is overwatering. Allow the compost to dry out completely before watering again, and never leave the plant sitting in water.
Give your ‘Chameleon’ plenty of bright, indirect light to encourage its beautiful golden new growth. Don’t worry when the yellow leaves gradually turn green – this is a completely natural part of the plant’s development.
Extras
‘Chameleon’ develops an upright, clumping growth habit, producing new stems directly from its underground rhizomes. Each fresh stem emerges with brightly coloured foliage that gradually changes as it matures.
Its slow-growing nature and tolerance of occasional neglect make it particularly suitable for busy households, offices and anyone looking for a low-maintenance statement plant.
Did You Know?
The name ‘Chameleon’ refers to the remarkable colour transformation of its leaves. New growth emerges in bright golden-yellow and lime-green tones before gradually developing chlorophyll and turning a deeper green.
Like other ZZ Plants, it stores water in thick underground rhizomes, allowing it to survive extended dry periods in its natural habitat.
