The plant natively grows in East Africa, namely Zanzibar and Tanzania. The plants are also called Zanzibar gems for their spotless, waxy leaves that are so deep green that sometimes, these plants are mistaken as artificial. ZZ plants are slow-growing plants that prefer bright, indirect sunlight. One of the benefits of zz plant is that it can thrive in many lighting conditions. If you plant or repot a zz, do it in the spring or summer when it's in an active growth phase. These plants are toxic to humans and animals if ingested.